Paul Burkhead is a Director at C&M International, where he develops customized government relations and advocacy strategies to help clients resolve problems and create opportunities. A former U.S. diplomat and trade negotiator, Mr. Burkhead has helped clients in the consumer products, information technology, healthcare, and hospitality industries navigate the complexities of national governments and global economic institutions. He has designed successful intellectual property and brand protection strategies for multinational companies in markets around the world.

Previously, Mr. Burkhead served in the Office of the U.S. Trade Representative (USTR) where he was responsible for developing and implementing trade policy for Europe and the Middle East. He led negotiating teams for trade agreements with Ukraine, Georgia and Libya, and  conducted negotiations with Russia, Kazakhstan, Azerbaijan, Saudi Arabia, Morocco, Tunisia, and other countries. He coordinated bilateral trade dialogues including the U.S.-Russia intellectual property rights working group, and advised on WTO accessions, investment treaties, intellectual property rights, and trade in services.

Prior to joining USTR, Mr. Burkhead was a career diplomat with the U.S. Department of State, where he focused on economic affairs and served in Thailand, Haiti, Italy and Washington. He received the State Department’s Meritorious Honor Award for his work in Haiti, and a Superior Honor Award for his work on U.S.-Italian relations.

Mr. Burkhead holds a Masters in International Affairs from Columbia University’s School of International and Public Affairs, and a Bachelor of Arts with honors from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. He speaks French and Italian.