Matthew Marsom

Director of Public Health Policy and Advocacy

As PHI's first director of public health policy and advocacy, Marsom is responsible for monitoring and influencing public health policy, legislation and regulations that affect PHI projects and interests. "This new role is about moving strategically and acting as a voice for PHI on state, federal and global public policy issues that support our larger mission," Marsom said. "Given the changes in Washington, this is an opportune and exciting time to enhance our role." Marsom positions PHI to cultivate understanding and support for public health, primarily at the state legislative and administrative levels, but also as appropriate with Congress, federal agencies and community organizations.

Previously, he was chief of the Policy, Partnerships and Planning Unit of the Cancer Prevention and Nutrition Section of the California Department of Public Health, providing support for policy development, legislative analysis and external relations. He also oversaw the policy and partnership activities of the Network for a Healthy California. Marsom, originally from the United Kingdom, was an advocate for community-based child care organizations and an advisor for policy and strategy within the Early Years and Childcare Unit for the Department of Education and Skills in London.

He received his bachelor's degree with First-Class Honors in political science from the University of Stirling in Scotland and postgraduate certificates in Russian and research methods from the University of Glasgow in Scotland.