Thinking together is a better way to move us forward.

 
 

About Me

Winig_Headshot.jpg

That’s me – Benjamin D. Winig, JD, MPA. I’m the Founder of ThinkForward Strategies. Much of my work focuses on helping leaders and organizations navigate change and thrive no matter what the future may bring.

Before founding ThinkForward Strategies, I served for many years as Vice President of Law & Policy at ChangeLab Solutions, a national nonprofit dedicated to building healthy communities. I served on the organization’s Executive Team and oversaw legal and policy interventions across the country. Before that I was a municipal lawyer (also for many years) at a private law firm where I represented cities and other public agencies in and around the Bay Area.

In 2008, I took a brief leave from lawyering to work on the Obama presidential campaign. Before that I did various stints overseas and was in school (also for many years).

I’ve written a bunch about a bunch of things, including forward-thinking legislation that has been adopted in jurisdictions across the country. I’ve also co-authored several articles, speak regularly at national conferences, and appear in the media from time to time, including national outlets like The New York Times and The Washington Post.

l graduated from the University of Michigan and earned my law degree and master’s in public affairs (with a concentration in public policy analysis) from the University of Wisconsin-Madison. 

I live in the Bay Area, am a husband of one and father of two. I’ve served on the board of national and local nonprofits and am currently on the Board of Trustees at the Seven Hills School. Family, community, and travel (in that order) are my passions. Okay, enough about me.

Please get in touch if you want to learn more

All Testimonials

“I've worked with many consultants over the years, and Ben stands out as one of the best. He adapts quickly when priorities shift or circumstances change. Plus, his strong network allows him to swiftly bring in trusted advisors whenever additional expertise is needed."

Linsey Morrison, Founder of Sunny Springs Advisory Group; Former VP of Impact, Eventbrite

“I’ve worked with Ben on a variety of projects over the past several years. In addition to being an incredibly talented planner, problem-solver, and organizer who is deeply knowledgeable in matters of policy, law, and advocacy, he is skilled at leading, lifting, and guiding people and projects. I can't recommend him highly enough.”

Dr. Lori Riverstone, Associate Professor, Politics and Government, Illinois State University

“Ben is an exceptional lawyer who has an amazing ability to respond to difficult client issues with both strategic thinking and creative solutions.  He is a pleasure to work with and always brings a smile to everyone he encounters.”

Michelle Marchetta Kenyon, City Attorney; Partner at Burke, Williams & Sorensen

“I’ve had the pleasure of working with Ben on a variety of projects over many years. He is a valued thought partner who brings deep legal and policy experience, an ability to keep work moving forward, and high standards to all that he does.”

Jim Krieger, MD, MPH, Executive Director, Healthy Food America

“In a very short time, Ben proved himself to be indispensable to us. We have benefited from the fact that he works at a high level and with a wide network across many areas: public health, the law, and academic research. He has great ideas and he gets things done.”

Kim Haddow, Director, Local Solutions Support Center

“Ben’s strengths span a variety of organizational needs, from strategy and policy development to fundraising and media. He's also a thoughtful collaborator - he listens carefully, skillfully builds consensus, and finds common goals.”

Sarah de Guia, CEO, ChangeLab Solutions

Let’s start thinking together so we
can move forward.