Robert L. "Robby" Cook, III retired in January 2009 from a distinguished career in public service which began in 1992 at which time he was elected to serve on the City Council of his hometown Eagle Lake, Texas.  After serving one term as a council member, he was elected Mayor of Eagle Lake.  His next venture into public service was his election to the Texas House of Representatives in 1996, where he served six consecutive terms..  During his tenure, Robby served on numerous committees, sub-committees, and task forces.  He also served on various councils and committees of both the National Conference of State Legislators and American Legislative Exchange Council.  Robby is also a Public Policy Fellow of the 2002 University of Texas Center for Public Policy Dispute Resolution training program.

Robby received numerous awards and recognition from both his peers as well as various interest groups across the State.  One most notable was that Robby was chosen by his peers as the "Freshman Legislator of the Year" for his work during the 75th Legislative Session.

After his retirement from the Legislature, he operated a private governmental affairs consulting business (2009-2018). 

Most recently Robby served as “Special Advisor to the House” for the Texas House of Representatives in the administration of Speaker Dennis Bonnen.  In this role Robby served in a unique position as a liaison between the Members of the Texas House of Representatives and the Speaker’s office.  His primary duty was to ensure that there was an open line of communication for the members as they deliberated during the Legislative Session as well as during the Interim.  

Robby currently is the owner and manager of Riceland Consulting, LLC, a governmental affairs firm based in Austin, Texas. 

Developing legislative strategy is an important part of successful advocacy. Through both his public service and private careers, Robby has developed extensive knowledge in numerous issues. Having served in local as well as state elected offices has given him a unique perspective of the interaction between governmental entities and the constituencies they represent.