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Robert M. Harding focuses his practice on economic development and financing initiatives, legislative counsel and regulatory matters before government agencies. Additionally, Bob represents candidates in New York election law matters.

Prior to joining the firm, Bob served as the New York City Deputy Mayor for Economic Development and Finance under Mayor Giuliani. As deputy mayor, Bob coordinated the city's economic development policies, oversaw all city labor negotiations, and was responsible for housing and finance operations. Bob also served as Director for the Office of Management and Budget for the mayor's office. In that capacity, he was responsible for the development, negotiation and implementation of the city's $37 billion annual operating budget and the 10-year, $45 billion capital plan.

Concentrations

  • Economic development and finance
  • Legislative counsel
  • Election law
  • Governmental and administrative law

Capabilities

Experience

 
  • Deputy Mayor, Economic Development and Finance, New York City's Office of the Mayor, March 2000-December 2001
  • Director, New York City Office of Management and Budget, 1998-2000
  • Director, State Legislative Affairs for the City of New York, 1994-1997
  • Counsel, Chief Legal Officer, Secretary, Albany Facilities Development Corporation, 1993

Recognition & Leadership

  • Listed, The Legal 500 United States, Media, technology and telecoms > Media and Entertainment: Litigation, 2023
  • City & State
    • Listed, "Economic Development Power 100," 2022-2023
    • Team Member, City & State, "Top 50 NYC Lobbyists," 2021 
    • Listed, "50 Over 50" Award, 2017
  • Team Member, Best Lawyers in America®, "Top Listed – Government Relations," 2018
  • Team Member, a U.S. News - Best Lawyers®, "Government Relations Law Firm of the Year," 2014
  • Adjunct Professor, Hunter College Graduate Program in Urban Affairs, 2005-Present
  • Board Member, Samaritan Daytop Foundation, 2015-Present
  • Board Member, Lower Manhattan Redevelopment Corporation, 2001-2015

Credentials

Education
  • J.D., Brooklyn Law School
  • B.A., The State University of New York at Plattsburgh
Admissions
  • New York
  • U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of New York
  • U.S. District Court for the Northern District of New York
  • U.S. District Court for the Southern District of New York