Well-connected BluePrint Strategies just added another strong link to its operation. JD Key is the new director of strategic outreach for Denver-based public affairs firm.

Key is well-known operative and advocate in Colorado political circles, who got his start at the state Capitol. He joins the firm’s well-known founders, Karen Crummy, Cinamon Watson and Jennifer Webster.

“We’re pleased to have JD join the team,” Watson said in a statement. “His talents and experience complement our core competencies and will bring our clients an added level of expertise.”

Watson, Crummy and Webster started the firm two years ago to provide public outreach, stakeholder engagement and insight on policy, political strategy and communications.

A longtime Denver Post reporter, Crummy has been a spokeswoman for the oil-and-gas industry’s Coloradans for Responsible Energy Development. Watson is a political veteran, perhaps best known for managing election campaigns for U.S. Rep. Mike Coffman as well as repping such large, influential groups as the Commonsense Policy Roundtable and the Colorado Contractors Association. A coalition-builder, Webster also has an oil-and-gas background. She also has worked for the Denver Metro Chamber of Commerce and the Colorado Department of Transportation.

“I could not be more thrilled and honored to join Team BluePrint.” said Key, who was the campaign political director for Mike Coffman’s re-election in 2016. “This firm is comprised of the best in the industry, and I look forward to working alongside them to achieve our client’s goals.”