Eric Criss is Director of the Office of Information and Public Affairs at the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC). CPSC is the federal agency charged by congress with protecting the public from unreasonable risks of injury or death from 15,000 types of consumer products under the agency's jurisdiction. In his capacity as Director of Public Affairs, Mr. Criss plays a critical role in engaging the media to educate consumers and families on products that pose a fire, electrical, chemical, or mechanical hazard or can injure children.

Prior to joining the CPSC, Mr. Criss was Vice President of Corporate Affairs for Century Strategies. Mr. Criss managed the firm’s corporate accounts, directing a team of communications professionals, lobbyists and political field staff. Utilizing paid and earned media, direct mail, and phone banks, Mr. Criss ran successful federal issue campaigns and won legislative battles across the nation.

Mr. Criss also previously managed government affairs for Intermedia Communications and represented the interests of small business owners for the National Federation of Independent Business. In addition, Mr. Criss has served as staff member or consultant to a number of political committees, associations and campaigns. These include the Progressive Conservative Party of Canada, former Massachusetts Governor Paul Cellucci, the National Republican Congressional Committee and the Association for Local Telecommunications Services.

Eric Criss may be reached at ecriss@cpsc.gov