Dan Cruz is a strategic advisor and leader with more than two decades of experience in public affairs, policy, crisis management, and organizational strategy. As the founder of Cruz Communications, he helps mission-driven leaders and organizations navigate complex challenges and communicate with clarity, confidence, and purpose.

Most recently, Dan served as Chief of Staff at the Chicago Housing Authority (CHA), one of the nation’s largest housing assistance agencies. He led executive operations and cross-agency initiatives, advising the CEO and senior leadership on crisis response, public affairs, and key policy priorities. During his time at CHA, the agency accelerated its delivery of new and renovated housing units, expanded homeownership programs for low-income families, and secured regulatory approvals for vital wrap-around support services. His work in housing continues a career focused on public policy, stakeholder engagement, and community leadership, integrating strategy, storytelling, and a values-driven approach.

Through Dan’s consulting practice, he has partnered with public relations firms and national nonprofits on issues related to economic policy, civil rights, immigration, civic engagement, and community service. Through policy research, expert writing, project management, and strategic communications planning, he helped clients expand their reach and achieve their goals.

Dan’s background also includes media relations roles at a startup telecommunications provider working on regulatory matters, the U.S. Treasury Department on consumer finance, the General Services Administration on government operations, and the Massachusetts state government on workforce issues and legislation.

Whether supporting clients through moments of crisis, refining their message, or helping shape long-term strategy, Dan brings sharp instincts, political fluency, and a steady, collaborative approach.

Based in Chicago, Dan holds a Bachelor’s in Political Science from Northeastern University. Outside the office, he’s an amateur chef, traveler, runner, and CrossFitter.