About Us

Mike Genest founded Genest Consulting in January 2010. Brad Williams and Peter Schaafsma joined Mike and they founded Capitol Matrix Consulting (CMC) one year later. (Tragically, Peter passed away in September 2014). Previously, Mike had a 33-year career in policy analysis, most of which was spent in California state government. Mike's career in California state government began at the Legislative Analyst's Office (LAO). That experience prepared him for "speaking truth to power" in a variety of positions that followed, culminating as the second longest serving Director of Finance since the Reagan Administration.

Prior to joining CMC, Brad Williams served for 32 years in state government, including over a decade as the chief economist for the LAO, where he was recognized as one of the state's top experts on the California economy and government revenues. He retired as a senior consultant to the Democratic Chairs of the Assembly Appropriations Committee.

Capitol Matrix Consulting's Vision, Mission and Values:

Vision

We provide a reliable source of expertise, insight and judgment on a wide range of fiscal, economic and policy issues facing California's state and local governments to those affected by, or involved in their policies and operations.

Mission

To serve businesses, associations, public interest groups, and governmental organizations as they interact with California state and local governments.

Values

Expertise. Reliability. Accuracy. Integrity. Judgment. Credibility.

Our Motto: Analysis Advice Advocacy

Analysis

Capitol Matrix Consulting was founded in the belief that there is a need for solid, credible and unflinching analysis of state and local fiscal, economic and policy issues. The inaugural year validated that belief as we conducted work for a wide range of individuals, organizations and firms, all of whom had in common a desire to know how things work in our state, to see an issue without bias, to understand both the pros and cons and, armed with that information to develop strategic and tactical plans for achieving their goals.

Advice

Capitol Matrix Consulting is more than an analytical firm. Our team's extensive experience in the Legislative Analyst's Office, the Department of Finance, the Legislature, the Treasurer's Office, the Controller's Office, various state departments and with both political parties gives us insight into how things get done in Sacramento. We know the players. We know the rules of the game. And, we know how to help you win.

Advocacy

Capitol Matrix Consulting is not a lobbying firm, but we are effective advocates, especially when your issue or project requires technical, analytical support. We can team with lobbyists to present your case to key administrative and legislative leaders. Our team members each have long and proven track records in communicating and advocating policy positions. We can make your case to editorial boards, opinion leaders, community groups and the general public through clear, focused presentations, both in person and in writing.

We provide a reliable, affordable source of expertise, insight and judgement on a wide range of fiscal, economic and policy issues facing California's state and local governments to those affected by, or involved in their policies and operations.