London, England, United Kingdom
Strategic leader and communications adviser with 18 years’ experience across consultancy, Parliament and Government. I specialise in regulatory affairs and industrial strategy, helping clients to navigate complex policy issues and deliver high-impact communications campaigns. At Shearwater Global, I advise corporate and public sector clients at CEO and Board level. Previously, I built and led Hanover Communications’ 30-strong government affairs team, shaping campaigns at the intersection of politics and business. I was the unfortunate government adviser tasked with managing the Boaty McBoatface saga. When not at work, I try my best at gardening.
As Group Managing Director for Advocacy I oversaw one of London's leading public affairs teams during a period that spanned Brexit, the pandemic and two general elections. I led a high-performing team of 30 consultants, with a focus on helping corporate clients navigate political change. I had overall responsibility for client service, new business, recruitment and talent. Sector specialisms included industrials, advanced manufacturing, transport, technology, media, telecoms, defence, financial services, education and FMCG / food and drink.
Elected as a Conservative councillor at the 2018 local elections, winning a seat in a competitive ward. I was subsequently appointed as: - Shadow Cabinet Member for Environment & Waste, with oversight of group environment policy and scrutiny of the Council's sustainability and waste strategies - Chair of the Standards Committee, with responsibility for chairing investigations and working to uphold ethical standards among councillors - Vice Chair of the Audit Committee, helping to scrutinise expenditure and overseeing the internal and external audit functions - Board Member at The Parks Trust, board-level experience at a registered charity
I was appointed Special Adviser following the 2015 general election, with responsibility for advising ministers, managing parliamentary relations and shaping government policy on higher education, science, innovation and the space industry. I launched the first legislation in a generation to reform the higher education and research landscape, leading to the creation of the Office for Students and UK Research & Innovation.