Featured Client: Bob Fox

01 November 2010

Not everyone is fortunate enough to be able to turn their passion into a career. Bob Fox, who calls himself "one of the luckiest guys in the world," is one of them. He's turned his love of horses into a thriving business as a lobbyist for the equine and agriculture industries in California. As the owner of Robert Fox Government Relations, Bob works with organizations such as the California Thoroughbred Breeders Association and companies such as Harris Farms to keep them abreast of statewide legislation that might affect their industry.

Bob got his start working for California state government, where he held positions with the California State Personnel Board, California State Fair, California Department of Food and Agriculture, and the California Department of Fish and Game. His career has also included stints as a California State Fair police officer, reserve deputy for Placer County, and volunteer firefighter. Noting that the dream of many young boys is to be a cowboy, a fireman, or a policeman, Bob says he's had the unusual luck of getting to be all three.

Fifteen years ago, with decades of government experience under his belt, and after spending six years working with a lobbying firm, Bob struck out on his own, founding a lobbying firm to address the unique needs of the California Thoroughbred Breeders Association, the Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association, and others involved in the State's diverse equine industry. Bob reviews all of the bills introduced by the legislature each year, keeping his clients abreast of relevant pending legislation and working to make sure their voices are heard in Sacramento. He also collaborates with agencies and organizations like the California Farm Bureau Federation and the California Cattleman's Association on issues of mutual interest, such as preserving rodeos in the state.

Bob's passion for horses carries over into his personal life. He and his wife of 26 years, Norma, own three horses, which they keep on their 5-acre property near Auburn. Norma owns and operates a company that organizes horse trade shows, and together, the couple loves to spend their free time horseback riding and camping near Point Reyes, Lake Tahoe, and other scenic places around the state. They also enjoy spending time with their growing family, which includes four adult children, as well as six grandchildren.