Ex-Fleishman Hillard executive continues comeback: Hill & Knowlton sign up Sugerman despite role in DWP scandal.

STEVE Sugerman. a former Fleishman Hillard executive who pleaded guilty to felony charges of overbilling the Los Angeles Department of Water & Power, has signed a strategic alliance with the L.A. office of Hill & Knowlton.

Sugerman left Fleishman in 2002 because of concerns about

Today, Sugerman Communications Group specializes in public affairs and issue management.

Hope Boonshaft, genera manager of the local H&K offices, said her company wants to expand into the public sphere and the Sugerman deal offered a shortcut- in spite of any legal history. "Steve is not only really smart, he's a good guy, a good practitioner," said Boonshaft. "Peo pie make mistakes and it's time to put those behind and move on."

Sugerman's clientele are large companies that deal extensively with the government. He has helped shipping giant Maersk navigate the issue of clean air in the ports and real estate developer Playa Vista work with local municipalities, for example.

The agency alliance breaks down geographically. Sugerman brings expertise in dealing with politicians and bureaucracy in Southern California, while H&K has offices nationally and internationally that can provide service to his clients, Sugerman said.

Both companies will maintain their independence but "for the most part, we'll be collaborators" instead of competitors, Sugerman said.

Staff reporter Joel Russell can be reached at jrussell@labusine ssjournal.com, or at (323) 549-5225, ext. 237.