Nic Walts serves as Senior Director of Governmental Affairs at The Picard Group. Prior to joining the firm in 2014, Walts worked in the Louisiana State Senate, the Louisiana Governor’s Office, and on various municipal, congressional, and gubernatorial campaigns. He brings a wealth of knowledge concerning the legislative process in Louisiana, the capital outlay process, and an understanding of a multitude of both state and local issues.

 

Over his last decade, Walts has developed extensive expertise in lobbying for healthcare issues. He works with hospital systems, provider organizations, health information and technology systems, and maintains relationships with payors to address issues along the continuum of care, bringing awareness and change for Louisiana patients. Outside of healthcare, his governmental affairs services are highly integrated in the energy sector, transportation and infrastructure, and purchasing or procurement matters.  

 

Originally a native of California, Walts moved to Louisiana to attend Louisiana State University, where he graduated with a bachelor’s degree in business administration and has continued education through The Wharton School. He is a graduate of Leadership Lafayette (Class XXVIII) and Leadership Louisiana (Class of 2022). He currently sits on the PAR Louisiana’s Future Leaders Council, the Junior Achievement of Acadiana board, and the One Acadiana Governmental Affairs Committee. He is a former Civic Chairman of The705 Young Professionals, Executive Finance Committee Vice-President for Downtown Lafayette Unlimited, mayoral appointee to the Lafayette Charter Transition Committee, and an Acadiana Top “20 Under 40” award recipient.

 

He is married to Leah Walts and has two children. He stays active in his community through participation in various Mardi Gras krewes, teaming A.C.T.S. retreats with churches across Lafayette Parish, and as a member of the Beaver Club of Lafayette.