RICHMOND, VA (January 21, 2026) — Advantus Strategies, a Richmond-based consulting firm specializing in government relations and strategic advisory services, today announced that its Board of Directors has appointed Craig Whitham as President.
Whitham succeeds Robert G. Crockett, who is stepping down as President after serving in that role for the last 18 years. He will remain on the Board as Managing Partner, and will continue to work closely with the Board and Mr. Whitham to ensure a seamless leadership transition.
“Craig brings deep experience, strong leadership, and a collaborative approach that will guide Advantus into its next chapter,” said Daniel G. “Bud” Oakey, Founder and Chair of Advantus. “On behalf of the Board, we are confident in Craig’s ability to provide the necessary leadership for Advantus into the future.”
Whitham currently leads Advantus’s Business Services practice, where he represents some of the world’s leading technology companies. He was elected to the Board in July 2025 and has a track record of building effective, trusted partnerships with clients. He joined Advantus in 2009.
Before joining Advantus in 2009, Mr. Whitham served as a Senior Appropriations Advisor to U.S. Representative Frank Wolf, where he managed transportation and infrastructure priorities for Virginia. Earlier in his career, he worked at the Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles, collaborating with legislators and agencies on policy and operational initiatives. A Richmond native, Whitham holds a B.S. from Elon University and a master’s degree from George Mason University.
Oakey added, “On behalf of the entire Board, we extend our sincere thanks to Robert for his 18 years of leadership.” During his tenure, Advantus has grown steadily, ventured into new business opportunities, and built a client-focused culture.” Mr. Crockett joined Advantus in 2006, and is the founder of the company’s Environment, Energy and Resilience Practice, now led my Mathew Wells. He was promoted to Vice President, and then named President in 2008. "Robert has been a visionary and dedicated leader of this Company since joining Advantus, and we appreciate his willingness to remain engaged to support the Board, Craig and our broader team,” Oakey said.
"In its 28th year of business, Advantus is an outstanding firm with a bright future and a great legacy of providing dedicated client service,” said Crockett. "I am grateful to our team and our clients who have contributed to the success of our businesses over these last few decades, and my full expectation is that Advantus will continue to flourish."
###
About Advantus Strategies
Founded in 1998, Advantus Strategies is a Richmond-based consulting firm that helps businesses and organizations navigate government relations, coalition building, business development, energy and natural resource matters in Virginia. With decades of experience and a deep understanding of the Commonwealth’s public policy landscape, Advantus provides clients with trusted strategic guidance to advance their objectives.
Learn more at www.AdvantusStrategies.com