Shadaya Bennett Joins CZ Strategies as Vice President

From Assembly Chief of Staff to Trenton Lobbying Vice President

Shadaya Bennett has joined Christina Zuk’s Trenton lobbying firm, CZ Strategies, as vice president of government affairs, the New Jersey Globe reported. Bennett brings more than a decade of experience in state government, legislative policy, and advocacy to the growing firm.

Zuk launched CZ Strategies in early 2026 after building a career in government affairs and labor representation. Her background includes serving as director of legislative and political affairs at JNESO, a health care union representing over 5,000 nurses and medical technicians, alongside prior staff positions in the New Jersey State Senate and statewide political campaigns.

Strategic Mind and Deep Relationships Drive the Hire

“Shadaya is exactly the kind of talent I set out to build this firm around,” Zuk said, according to the New Jersey Globe. “She has the strategic mind and the relationships that clients look for in a senior advisor, and the versatility to deliver on any issue that walks through the door. Her arrival marks an important step in the growth of the firm.”

A Decade of Legislative Leadership in Newark and Trenton

During her tenure as chief of staff to Assemblywoman Shanique Speight, a Democrat representing Newark, Bennett managed district and legislative priorities focused on workforce development, criminal justice, and women’s health.

Prior to that role, she served as policy director for Senate Majority Leader M. Teresa Ruiz, another Newark Democrat. In that capacity, Bennett oversaw budget priorities and legislative initiatives, which included efforts to expand childcare access through the state’s Thriving by Three grant program.

Broad Experience Across Health Care and Child Advocacy

Her resume also includes positions outside the legislature. Bennett previously worked as the director of government relations for the New Jersey Hospital Association and as a senior legislative analyst for Advocates for Children of New Jersey.

“I’ve spent my career working to turn good policy ideas into real outcomes for New Jersey families,” Bennett said.