Government and public affairs leader brings extensive experience in policy, coalition building and intergovernmental relations
FORT WORTH, Texas (Sept. 25, 2026) – Tom Stallings has joined HNTB as government relations director for the firm’s Central Division. He has extensive experience in government relations, public affairs, strategic communications, policy development and organizational leadership at the federal and local levels.
Stallings will direct the firm’s government relations activities in Texas, Louisiana, Missouri, Kansas, Iowa, Oklahoma, Nebraska, Arkansas and Mississippi. This will include developing government and public affairs strategies and collaborating with government relations professionals across the firm to strengthen and grow relationships with policymakers, clients and other key stakeholders who influence transportation infrastructure policy and funding.
“Tom is a thoughtful, strategic leader who understands how strong relationships and effective collaboration can advance complex priorities,” said Scott Haywood, HNTB Central Division president and senior vice president. “His experience working across federal and local government, along with his ability to bring people together around shared goals, will be a valuable asset to our clients and teams throughout the Central Division.”
Prior to joining HNTB, Stallings served as deputy county administrator for Tarrant County in North Texas where he provided leadership and counsel on county operations, policy development and implementation. He also worked with elected officials, municipalities, districts and agencies on intergovernmental and multijurisdictional initiatives. During his tenure, he was selected to serve as interim director of several county departments, including intergovernmental relations, communications and emergency management.
Earlier in his career, Stallings served as a senior policy advisor in the U.S. Senate, where his portfolio included transportation and infrastructure. He later served as chief of staff in the U.S. House of Representatives and to the Tarrant County judge. He also founded a public affairs firm providing government relations, strategic communications, stakeholder engagement and media relations services.
Stallings holds a Master of Business Administration with a concentration in strategic leadership and a Bachelor of Business Administration, both from Texas Christian University.