On February 28, 2023, Jeff Mascott, former Adfero Chief Executive Officer and Founder, passed away from pancreatic cancer. Jeff possessed a unique blend of political experience, business savvy, communications and technology expertise. Under his leadership, Adfero has become one of the best-known communications agencies in Washington, consistently recognized for staying ahead of industry trends and regarded as a true strategic partner to its clients. Jeff’s clear vision, foresight and penchant for change resulted in agency success, growth and the creation of new opportunities for public affairs professionals, where he encouraged everyone to turn each challenge into an opportunity.

With Jeff at the helm, PR News recognized Adfero as a “Top Place to Work in PR,” PR Week chose it as a finalist for “Boutique PR Firm of the Year” and SmartCEO named Adfero a Future50 company for emergent growth. As the firm’s CEO, Jeff also appeared on PR Week’s “40 Under 40” list.

Prior to launching Adfero, Jeff co-founded Fireside, a constituent relationship management firm acquired by FiscalNote in 2021.  He formerly led digital strategy for Congressman J.C. Watts, Jr., Chairman of the House Republican Conference. He graduated from the University of Maryland, College Park with a BA in Government and Politics.

Throughout his career as an entrepreneur, Jeff served on multiple boards and engaged in extensive community service. He prioritized philanthropic giving, establishing the Mascott Family Endowed Student Support Fund at the University of Maryland in 2022 to support underserved students pursuing internships in public service on Capitol Hill.

Jeff created and championed Adfero’s core values of teamwork, responsibility, learning from mistakes and respect. He focused on building a values-driven company and surrounding himself with like-minded individuals. Above all else, Jeff instilled the value of respect and ensured that each individual be treated with the dignity they deserve.

To his colleagues, friends and family, Jeff was a problem-solver. His children needed a soccer coach; he became one the next day. He realized the potential for a mission-driven strategic communications firm; he founded Adfero.