The Organisation

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Our client is an independent, boutique communications and public affairs consultancy working with a range of high-profile organisations across corporate, policy and reputational issues. The firm has built a strong reputation for delivering thoughtful, strategic advice and integrated campaigns.

The agency is entering an exciting phase of growth and evolution. With an ambitious leadership team and a collaborative culture, it offers the opportunity to shape both client work and the direction of the business as it scales.

The Opportunity

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This is a senior leadership role for an experienced public affairs professional who combines strategic counsel with strong commercial instincts. The Director will play a central role in guiding client programmes, developing new business opportunities and strengthening the agency’s senior capability. Joining at a pivotal moment in the firm’s growth, the successful candidate will help deepen client relationships, support the expansion of the agency’s portfolio and contribute to the development of a high-performing team.

The role would suit someone seeking genuine ownership and responsibility within a growing consultancy environment, with the opportunity to influence decisions, shape ways of working, and play an active role in the development of both the team and the wider business.

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Main Responsibilities

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• Provide senior strategic counsel to clients, developing integrated public affairs and communications strategies that deliver measurable impact
• Lead and grow key client relationships, acting as a trusted adviser to senior stakeholders
• Identify and drive new business opportunities, contributing to the agency’s continued commercial growth
• Lead and contribute to pitches, proposals and scope development for prospective and existing clients
• Oversee account delivery to ensure high-quality, insight-led work across public affairs, policy and media engagement
• Support the development and mentoring of consultants, strengthening capability across the team
• Monitor political and policy developments to inform client strategies and identify emerging opportunities
• Contribute to the wider leadership of the business, supporting operational planning and the agency’s long-term growth

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Skills & Experience

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• Significant experience in public affairs, strategic communications or political advisory roles within an agency
• Strong understanding of UK politics and policy, with well-developed networks across the political and stakeholder landscape
• Proven track record of managing senior client relationships and delivering strategic counsel
• Demonstrable experience contributing to or leading new business development and commercial growth
• Experience leading, mentoring and developing teams in a fast-paced consultancy environment
• Commercial awareness and the ability to balance client delivery with business objectives
• Excellent communication and stakeholder engagement skills
• A collaborative leadership style and a proactive, solutions-focused approach

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To apply, please submit your CV via the link.

For more information on public affairs roles, contact Tasmin at tasmin@ellwoodatfield.com.

Ellwood Atfield is the leading headhunter for corporate affairs, communications, policy, and advocacy. An employee-owned boutique search firm, we help you hire the most senior leaders and everyone who reports to them. We promise to connect talented people, smoothly and efficiently.

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Our purpose is to create important and enduring relationships. We are an equal opportunities employer and promote diversity across our profession to ensure every individual has the opportunity to perform at their best. If you have not done so already, please let us know if you require any support so we can make the right adjustments and considerations should they be required.

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