Tessa Gould is a Partner at FTP. 

As Partner, Gould leads client strategy across a variety of industries, utilizing her leadership and campaign experience, specifically her understanding of rural and moderate political dynamics as part of the broader national conversation.

She previously served as Chief of Staff to former United States Senator Heidi Heitkamp of North Dakota. Prior to being named Chief of Staff, Tessa managed Heitkamp’s successful 2012 race for North Dakota’s open Senate seat. Tessa previously managed seven successful congressional campaigns and served as Chief of Staff to former Congresswoman Stephanie Herseth Sandlin (D-SD). She also worked with former Congressman Earl Pomeroy (D-ND), former Senator Byron L. Dorgan (D-ND) and former House Leader Dick Gephardt (D-MO).

Tessa has dedicated her professional career to advancing public policy important to agriculture, rural economic development, tribal issues and children’s health.

Tessa currently serves on the Board of Trustees at the University of Jamestown and on the Board of 131 and Counting. She volunteers with a variety of local charities including the YWCA Girls on the Run program, the United Way, the Ronald McDonald House and Big Brother/Big Sister programs. Tessa shares a home with her two English Bulldogs – Finley and Sully.