About

Melody Neil

Founding Partner/Principal

Melody Neil is the Founding Partner and Principal of Neil Strategic, advising companies at the forefront of AI, energy, data centers, and dual-use innovation. With over 15 years of experience across federal and state government, national security, and emerging technology, she is known for translating complex technical landscapes into strategy trusted by leaders, policymakers, and investors.

Melody provides high-level counsel to Fortune 500 companies, high-growth startups, mission-driven nonprofits, and specialized industry groups—helping them navigate regulatory uncertainty, shape public-sector engagement, and build the influential relationships that accelerate business outcomes.

Her career reflects a rare combination of deep policy fluency, technological understanding, and narrative intelligence. She has guided organizations through challenges in AI infrastructure, defense and dual-use technology, transportation, energy systems, national security, public affairs, and critical infrastructure. Her strategic approach centers on aligning innovation with public policy, ensuring clients operate effectively at the intersection of government, industry, and the communities they serve.

Before founding Neil Strategic, Melody built and led the government affairs department for a global data center REIT, where she established the company’s public-sector strategy and positioned it as a national leader during a period of rapid industry transformation.

She also brings extensive public-sector experience. Melody served more than six years on the U.S. House Appropriations Committee, working for both Chairmen and Ranking Members on defense and foreign operations funding. Her work included drafting legislation, negotiating bill language, and managing the complex federal appropriations process. Earlier in her career, she served as Deputy Press Secretary for U.S. Congresswoman Karen L. Thurman (FL-05), leading media relations, crafting messaging, and hosting press conferences.

Melody holds a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science from the University of Florida and a Master’s in International Business from Georgetown University.

She is recognized for her ability to bring clarity to fast-moving sectors, build the relationships that matter, and guide breakthrough technologies through the halls of power with intelligence, precision, and presence.