Overview
Mark Burton's broad range of experience in government, law and strategic communications enables him to provide effective counsel in critical matters impacting his clients.
Prior to joining Honigman, Mark served as President & CEO of the Michigan Economic Development Corporation (MEDC) just as COVID-19 became prevalent in Michigan and across the country. During his tenure, he oversaw MEDC’s creation and deployment of a suite of COVID relief programs to Michigan businesses across all 83 counties.
Before leading MEDC, Mark was Governor Gretchen Whitmer’s chief strategist, which included the development, oversight and execution of her agenda and serving as the primary Executive Office advisor on economic development projects. In his 20-year career, he has also held various positions across state government, started and ran a small business and worked in the philanthropic sector.
Services
Practice Areas
Experience
Prior Experience
- Michigan Economic Development Corporation, President & Chief Executive Officer, 2020-2021
- Executive Office of Governor Gretchen Whitmer, Chief Strategist, 2019-2020
- Burton Consulting, LLC, Founder, Chief Executive, 2007-2019
- Tri-County Alliance for Public Education (TCA), Executive Director, 2013-2017
- Michigan Senate, Chief of Staff, Senate Democratic Leader Gretchen Whitmer, 2011-2013
- Michigan Senate, General Counsel, Senate Democratic Caucus, 2009
- Stem Cell Research Ballot Campaign, Campaign Manager, 2007-2008
- Michigan Association for Justice, Legislative Counsel, 2005-2007
- Michigan Department of Transportation, Legislative Liaison, Office of Governmental Affairs, 2005
- Michigan House of Representatives, Legislative Aide, 2001-2004
Credentials
Education
- International Human Rights Law
Admissions
- Michigan
Recognition
Awards
- Law Bulletin Media
- Leading Lawyers, Governmental, Municipal, Lobbying & Administrative Law, 2023-2024
- Leading Lawyers, Public Finance Law, 2023-2024
- The Best Lawyers in America, 2024-2025
- Recognized in practice area of Government Relations Practice
Professional & Community Involvement
Citizens Research Council of Michigan, Board of Directors, 2022 - present