Nicole Osborne Watson

Nicole Watson is an attorney and senior policy advisor based in Holland & Knight's Chattanooga office and also handles work out of the firm's Nashville office. Ms. Watson is recognized for her leadership and judgment in developing and executing effective legislative and government relations strategies across Tennessee and the Southeast. She represents the interests of corporate clients, industry groups, professional associations and not-for-profit organizations before elected officials in the Tennessee General Assembly and government officials in numerous local, state and federal agencies.

Ms. Watson's experience includes drafting and negotiating legislation, assisting with regulatory and rulemaking compliance strategy and traditional lobbying to the state legislature, the state executive branch, congressional representatives, state and federal agencies, city councils, county officials and community leaders. Additionally, she monitors legislative developments and educates clients on legislative processes, procedures and progress. Ms. Watson has vast experience assisting clients on strategic risk management and communication planning. She also manages political action committees (PACs) and fundraising programs for clients and provides guidance on grassroots advocacy efforts and the development of coalitions.

Previously, Ms. Watson led government relations, public policy and economic development initiatives for a Chattanooga-based law firm. Earlier in her career, she gained valuable government and regulatory affairs experience with Tennessee American Water Company and the Pet Industry Joint Advisory Council.

While attending law school, she served as a federal government affairs summer associate for the National Rifle Association and a government relations intern for a leading bipartisan government relations firm in Washington, D.C. Before attending law school, she served as a congressional intern on Capitol Hill for Sens. George Allen (R-Va.) and John Warner (R-Va.).