Comcast today announced that Matt Groen has been appointed vice president, State Government Affairs for Michigan. In his new role, he is responsible for managing the company’s traditional legislative issues as well as state broadband funding opportunities. Groen takes over for Chris Horak who retired in March. Horak served Comcast for 15 years in this role and will continue to work as a consultant for the company in Lansing.
Groen is a veteran leader with over two decades of experience in public policy and lobbying. He has a wealth of experience in the cable industry, having most recently served as executive director of the Michigan Cable Telecommunications Association, where he represented the interests of the cable industry throughout Michigan. Prior to that, he played a key role in government affairs for the Michigan Restaurant Association.
“Matt’s appointment to the Comcast team is a crucial step toward continuing to bridge the digital divide and ensuring better access to technology in Michigan,” said Kristee Cominiello, senior vice president of Comcast’s Heartland Region, which includes Michigan, Indiana and Kentucky. “As an expert in the industry and a leader in government affairs, Matt brings a wealth of knowledge and experience that will help Comcast continue to advocate for policies that promote digital equity and inclusivity and make a positive impact in the lives of Michiganders.”
Groen has played a vital role in shaping key legislation in Michigan and has worked on key legislation affecting the cable industry in Michigan, including multiple rounds of statewide broadband grants. His experience also includes testifying before state House and Senate committees on several occasions on issues facing the industry.
Groen is a past board member of Women in Cable Telecommunications – Great Lakes Chapter and past president of the Country Club of Lansing board of directors. He serves as a member of several organizations, including the National Association for Multi-ethnicity in Communications – Detroit Chapter. Groen received his bachelor’s degree in political theory and constitutional democracy from James Madison College at Michigan State University.
