Christian Callegari draws on his experience in government and deep knowledge of New Jersey’s political landscape to help clients advance their business goals. Working with clients across a variety of industries, he provides strategic advice on legislative issues and guidance on how they can best participate in and navigate government.
Prior to joining McCarter, Christian served as Chief of Staff to Mayor Andre Sayegh in Paterson, NJ. In this role, Christian led several key initiatives, including communications efforts, government and private grant funding opportunities, and sustainability programs. Christian also served as acting Director of Economic Development, where he helped cannabis businesses maneuver through government rules and regulations, and worked with developers on site acquisition, development, and the utilization of state tax credits.
Christian’s experience also includes serving as Chief of Staff to New Jersey Assemblyman Gary S. Schaer, where he worked on a number of transformative issues, including criminal justice reform, a comprehensive statewide lead service line replacement plan, and re-establishing the Urban Enterprise Zone program for municipalities and businesses. Christian also has significant experience with various Assembly Committees, including Budget, Appropriations, Financial Institutions and Insurance, and Education.
Christian has been involved in various federal, state, and local elections over the years. Through his work, he has developed a broad network of government leaders and entrepreneurs throughout the state.
Christian currently resides in Totowa, NJ with his wife, family, and dog.
