Government SpAd to Agency Lobbyist: The Seamless Transition?

by Warren Madlin, Director MadlinHanna Consulting

The often fleeting and unpredictable nature of being a Westminster Special Adviser means few unpack their bags in preparation for a long stint. Even the lucky few who manage to stick around for years always have their eye on the next step. Often, that eye will fall upon one of London’s illustrious public affairs consultancies who value the experience of these advisers to navigate ‘the system’. However, I won’t be alone in knowing of far too many examples where this move simply didn’t work. So, after speaking with those who succeeded, those who didn’t, and the agency bosses who paid for them all, here are my top three takeaways:

Do your research

To assume a job in one agency is a job in any agency is wildly inaccurate. Decide what you want from the role, then pick accordingly. Some will want you leaning on your government pals from day one, pulling in favours before your feet are under the desk. Others will see much more value in your policy expertise, advising clients on risk, potential and everything in between, without ever having to invite your old colleagues on a free lunch. A hybrid of the two is often most satisfying, but ultimately it is personal preference.

Know your level

Even the most well-connected agency bosses will struggle to know how senior the position you held was within your department. Speak to a headhunter, talk through your skillset, and make sure you position yourself at the right salary upon introduction to potential future employers. The department you worked in, policies you worked on, and people you worked under matter an enormous amount in shaping what your expectations should be.

Time it right

Easier said than done. There is no worse a time to be making this move than just after a General Election, change in party leadership or cabinet reshuffle. Overnight, agencies that have been searching for months are flooded with options. Supply outstrips demand in a massive way so your bargaining power, and chance of securing that dream that role, diminishes. This requires careful thought, considered weighing up of possibilities, and a fair amount of guesswork but if you jump first, you’ll have your pick of roles, with extremely compelling compensation packages.

A seamless transition? Not so much it seems. In fact, not seamless at all. Please do get in contact if you would like to understand how to make this move successfully.

MadlinHanna Consulting is a recruitment consultancy specialising in corporate affairs, covering public affairs, corporate communications and financial PR. Contact us on 020 8088 4102 for more information or a confidential conversation about these services and more.