FTS announces leadership changes, expansion, and new hire

03 . 03 . 20

Columbia, S.C. – First Tuesday Strategies (FTS), South Carolina’s premier public affairs, PR and campaign firm, today announced leadership changes, its expansion, and a new hire.

Former S.C. Republican Party Chairman Matt Moore has assumed the role of Managing Partner. Former FTS Managing Partner Luke Byars has transitioned to Senior Partner. The firm also announced the hiring of Matt Orr as Director of Public Affairs. Giff Carpenter continues in his role as Director of Campaigns.

Matt Orr arrives at FTS after over three years in the Office of State Superintendent of Education Molly Spearman, where he served as Public Information Officer. Previously Orr served as Public Affairs Assistant in the Office of South Carolina Attorney General Alan Wilson and as Press Secretary for the South Carolina Republican Party.

“Matt Orr’s skillset and relationships make him a great addition to our team,” said Senior Partner Luke Byars. “With Matt Orr and Giff Carpenter, we have one of the top data and communications teams in the nation.”

The firm additionally announced verticals that will fill key needs for clients. FTS Insights will offer the latest polling and statistical analysis. FTS Digital will deliver the latest in digital design and ad placement. Finally, FTS Advocacy will house all of the firm’s public affairs and policy campaign consulting services.

FTS has won dozens of industry honors, including Reed and Pollie awards, since the firm’s founding in 2008. Managing Partner Matt Moore said the firm’s new hire, realignment, and branding will position FTS well for the next decade.

“Our industry has fundamentally changed,” said Moore. “It requires high technical skill combined with strategic instincts. I believe no firm can match the experience of FTS’ people. They are our greatest asset.”

In addition to its growing public affairs and PR businesses, FTS will continue to offer consulting services to local, statewide, and congressional campaigns. Partners Moore and Byars have managed hundreds of winning campaigns over the last decade. The firm also has years of experience leading super PACs and independent expenditure campaigns. Most recently, FTS served as general consultant for Congressman William Timmons’ winning 2018 bid.

FTS also offers preeminent expertise on renewable energy. The firm garnered praise and awards for its 2019 leadership in pushing a comprehensive expansion of solar in South Carolina. The bill passed the state legislature unanimously.