Robert J. Clark

BJ Clark leads Ballard Spahr’s Government Affairs and Public Policy Group. His practice focuses on matters involving government decision-making, regulation and public policy. He represents clients before federal, state and local executive agencies, administrative bodies, legislatures and legislative committees, drawing on his experience in Pennsylvania state government.

BJ works with clients involved in major economic development and infrastructure projects, renewable energy projects and large public procurements. His practice also includes licensing and administrative law matters involving gaming and cannabis, as well as compliance with political and public ethics laws. His government affairs clients include Fortune 50 and Fortune 500 companies, private businesses, major institutions and emerging technology companies across a range of industries.

Political campaigns and candidates at every level also turn to BJ for representation and advice. His work has included advising Pennsylvania Governor Tom Wolf’s Transition Team and the DNC Philadelphia Host Committee. During the 2020 election cycle, he served as local counsel to the Biden campaign and the Democratic National Committee.

Before joining Ballard Spahr, BJ served on Governor Ed Rendell’s senior staff from 2003 to 2009. He was responsible for appointments to Commonwealth boards and commissions, judicial vacancies and non-civil service positions in agencies and departments under the Governor’s jurisdiction. He also coordinated the administration’s engagement with constituencies across Pennsylvania to advance diversity and inclusion in appointments and policy initiatives.

In that role, BJ led the Commonwealth’s effort to deepen the Delaware River’s main channel to 45 feet and represented the Governor’s Office in economic development projects. He also served as a liaison to the National Governors Association and the Democratic Governors Association.

• Temple University James E. Beasley School of Law (J.D. 2009)
• University of Pennsylvania (B.A. 2001)

City & State PA Top Lobbyists List, 2022

Ballard Spahr Pro Bono Honor Roll 2010-2015; 2017-2020

Named to Philadelphia Business Journal's 2017 "40 Under 40" list, recognizing professional excellence and outstanding community involvement

Named one of 10 "Rising Stars Under 30" by PoliticsPA.com, 2006

“Biotechnology and Medical Marijuana,” PA Bio Leadership Panel,  February 2020

“Manufacturing Election Recap,” Ballard Spahr Manufacturing Group Podcast, November 2018

“The Intersection of Technology and Medical Marijuana,” Philly Tech Week Panel, May 2017

“Creating, Influencing and Challenging a Regulation,” Pennsylvania Bar Institute Continuing Legal Education Course,  November 2016

• Philabundance, Vice Chairman of the Board and Chairperson, Governance Committee
• Philadelphia Regional Port Authority, Board Member and Chairperson, Audit & Budget Committee
• National Governor’s Association Centennial Meeting, Chairperson of the Local Host Committee
• Franklin Institute, Former Member, Board of Trustees