Shumaker’s Ronald A. Christaldi and Mark Wagoner Recognized as Global Leaders in Crisis Management by Lawdragon

TAMPA, FL – Shumaker Partners Ronald A. Christaldi and Mark Wagoner have been recognized as global leaders in Lawdragon’s inaugural 500 Global Leaders in Crisis Management Guide. This prestigious honor highlights their work in litigation, public policy, and government affairs.

The Lawdragon 500 Global Leaders in Crisis Management Guide highlights attorneys and communications consultants who guide clients through complex and high-stakes situations. From former prosecutors and seasoned Beltway insiders to influential policymakers and high-profile litigators, this guide recognizes the professionals who are called upon when the stakes are highest.

Ron Christaldi, respected attorney and President & CEO of Shumaker Advisors Florida, is renowned for his work that has significantly shaped the legal, civic, and economic landscape of Florida. Known for his deep understanding of government processes and complex problem-solving, Ron represents clients at the intersection of law, politics, and public affairs—helping them traverse regulatory challenges, high-impact litigation, and public-private initiatives. He has played a key role in some of the region’s most consequential policy matters, including serving as a Commissioner on the City of Tampa Charter Review Commission, where he was instrumental in rewriting the city’s governing framework. Ron also advances economic development through leadership roles with the Tampa Bay Economic Development Council, the Moffitt Cancer Center’s Hope Innovation District, and as a frequent participant in international trade missions, including a 2024 delegation to Italy with Governor Ron DeSantis to advance Florida’s economic interests. His trusted counsel and behind-the-scenes leadership have made him a go-to advisor for business leaders, elected officials, and institutions navigating complex issues.

Mark Wagoner is a well-known litigator who has consistently delivered favorable outcomes in a wide variety of complex, high-profile matters. Mark is a widely respected former Ohio State Senator who has successfully represented the Governor of Ohio, the President of the Ohio Senate, a former Speaker of the Ohio House, the Ohio Secretary of State, and several U.S. Congressman in a number of high-stakes civil and criminal litigation matters.  Mark is currently the lead attorney for the State of Ohio in a case brought by over 300 public school districts challenging the constitutionality of Ohio’s EdChoice program, a $1.3 billion dollar program for Ohio’s k-12 students. He has also successfully defended clients in federal jury trials, class actions, and criminal investigations, including being part of a team that won a three-week criminal jury trial against the U.S. Department of Justice Antitrust Division for alleged bid-rigging military contracts, securing the closure of several U.S. Department of Justice criminal investigations without charges, and winning  precedent-setting cases in a variety of areas such as health care, beer distribution, and oil and gas law.

Known for his strategic thinking and courtroom presence, Mark has led antitrust and constitutional law cases to major victories—including obtaining emergency injunctive relief, multimillion-dollar verdicts, and significant settlements. Mark is also the founder Chairman of Shumaker Advisors, LLC, the firm’s government relations practice, and the Chairman of the Audit and Compliance Committee of a $3 billion health system, providing him with a unique perspective on the critical intersection of law, business, and public policy.

“Ron and Mark exemplify what it means to lead in times of challenge and change with critical outcomes,” said Jennifer Compton, Chair of Shumaker’s Management Committee. “Their inclusion on this global list reflects not only their legal skill, but also the trust clients place in them to navigate the most sensitive and consequential matters.”

The honorees were selected through Lawdragon’s rigorous process of journalistic research, peer and client feedback, and independent vetting.