Our Team
Justin Brown, Founder & CEO
Justin Brown is a nationally recognized leader in veteran advocacy, public policy, and strategic consulting. As Founder of the HillVets Foundation and CEO of The Nimitz Group, he has dedicated his career to empowering veterans and shaping policies across healthcare, technology, and defense. With nearly 20 years of experience, Justin continues to elevate veteran voices in the halls of power and build pathways for public service.
Danielle Forand, Junior Partner
Danielle Forand brings over six years of policy and legislative experience to the team. A proud member of the mil-vet community and lifelong Air Force brat, Danielle channels her passion for service into meaningful advocacy. With advanced degrees in international relations and national security, she is a dedicated strategist with a deep commitment to public impact.
Drew Benbow, Director of Special Operations
Drew Benbow is a retired U.S. Army Major, attorney, and senior leader at The Nimitz Group, where he leads strategic engagement and execution on Capitol Hill. In this role, he focuses on advancing client priorities across defense policy, military personnel issues, and national security, with particular experience navigating the National Defense Authorization Act and committee-driven legislative processes.
Clare Marsh, Associate
Clare Marsh is a 2025 Magna Cum Laude graduate of The Catholic University of America with a B.A. in Politics, a minor in Hispanic Studies, and a Certificate in Intelligence Studies. A former NCAA DIII track captain and All-American, she brings leadership and discipline to her work in public policy. Clare has interned with the U.S. House of Representatives, gaining experience in legislative affairs and national security.
Harper Leigh, Outreach and Engagement Specialist
Harper Leigh is an Outreach and Engagement Specialist at The Nimitz Group with a diverse background spanning military service, international development, and media. A U.S. Army Civil Affairs Specialist and former Peace Corps Volunteer in the Balkans, she has extensive experience building relationships across government and civilian sectors both in the U.S. and abroad. Overall, she combines strategic communications skills with a strong ability to turn complex policy into impactful, human-centered stories.
Dante Albero, Outreach Specialist
Dante Albero, a Navy veteran and Outreach Specialist at The Nimitz Group, brings nearly eight years of distinguished service to the team. Serving as a Petty Officer First Class, he deployed with Carrier Air Wing Two aboard the USS Carl Vinson and later served as a Master Training Specialist at the Center for Naval Aviation Technical Training. Holding both a BA and MA degree, Dante is passionate about building relationships and advancing veteran advocacy initiatives.