Marvin B. Figueroa is a seasoned public policy professional with a remarkable career spanning state and federal government. Most recently, he served as Chief of Staff to U.S. Senator Laphonza Butler of California, the third Black woman to serve in the U.S. Senate. In this role, Figueroa managed all aspects of the Senator’s operations and served as a key advisor on policy and external strategy, driving initiatives focused on health and wellness, democracy, and economic mobility.

Previously, Figueroa was appointed by President Biden as Director of Intergovernmental and External Affairs at the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS). Reporting directly to Secretary Xavier Becerra, he led a team of more than 60 staff across 10 regional offices, fostering partnerships with advocacy groups and state, local, and tribal governments to implement a wide range of Presidential priorities. Figueroa played a pivotal role in efforts to expand healthcare coverage, address public health emergencies, and reduce health disparities.

Earlier in his career, Figueroa served as Deputy Secretary of Health and Human Resources (HHR) in Virginia in the Cabinet of Governor Ralph Northam, where he spearheaded the implementation of Medicaid expansion, providing healthcare access to over 500,000 residents. He also oversaw efforts to improve behavioral health services statewide. As Senior Policy Advisor to Senator Mark Warner (D-Va.), Figueroa focused on healthcare, education, and workforce development, achieving bipartisan legislative victories. His co-leadership of the Senate Finance Committee Chronic Care Working Group culminated in the landmark CHRONIC CARE Act of 2017, which was signed into law by President Trump in 2018.

Figueroa’s expertise at the intersection of policy and politics has made him a sought-after speaker at national forums and conferences, where he addresses critical issues affecting communities nationwide. His contributions have been recognized with numerous accolades, including selection as a Presidential Leadership Scholar (PLS), Congressional Black Caucus (CBC) Health Braintrust Congressional Staffer of the Year, and Congressional Hispanic Caucus Institute (CHCI) Young Alumnus of the Year.

Originally from La Ceiba, Honduras, Figueroa is a proud Garífuna (Gah-ri-fu-nah). Raised in the Bronx by a mother who worked as a home care worker, he holds a deep respect for all those who care for the most vulnerable, regardless of their title or formal role. A POSSE Foundation Scholar, Marvin earned his Bachelor’s degree from Vanderbilt University and his Master’s degree from Harvard University. He is also a proud member of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc.