Edelman, the world’s leading global communications marketing firm, has today strengthened its offer to clients seeking to understand and prepare for the advent of a Labour government, with the hiring of the Labour party’s Head of Briefing Emily Richards.
Richards has joined Edelman’s Public Affairs team and will be charged with developing an enhanced client offer in the Labour policy and communications space. Drawing on more than a decade of experience working for Gordon Brown, Ed Miliband and Jeremy Corbyn, Richards will head up a core team of ex-Labour advisors offering clients insight and understanding of Corbyn’s policy objectives and his party’s approach to business. Richards and her team will be supported in their work by Senior Directors Craig Woodhouse, Lucy Thomas and James Morris*, and will report into Edelman Public Affairs and Government Relations MD Will Walden.
Commenting on her appointment, Will Walden said: “Labour’s improved showing in last year’s snap general election, coupled with continued uncertainty over Brexit, mean clients are increasingly interested in what a potential future Labour administration might mean for their business. It’s vital that our current and future clients understand how Labour views business, and Emily was the standout candidate in this space. Her appointment gives clients immediate insight, and will help them to drive engagement with Labour policy makers whilst navigating Labour’s policy objectives.”
Emily Richards added: “I’m delighted to be joining Edelman, and to be part of their excellent public affairs team. At a time of such significant political change and uncertainty the need for business to understand and engage with the policies of all parties is more important than ever. At this challenging time, comprehensive insight into the possible future policy landscape is vital. After over a decade working in Labour politics I’m looking forward to using my experience to help businesses develop their understanding and relationships with the Labour Party, and to support Edelman’s wide range of stakeholders to engage with Labour policy-makers. I can’t wait to get started working with such a talented team, contributing to their work in bringing clients unrivalled analysis and insight.”