Policy & PUblic Affairs

Professional

I am Policy and Public Affairs Manager for a membership organisation in the health sector. My role is focused on Wales with the occasional piece of work related to the Republic of Ireland. It is a role I very much enjoy as it has the scope to be influential in the policy debate and the organisation is well respected across the political spectrum. 

Prior to returning to Wales, I worked for a decade in public affairs related to planning and development policy. This was predominantly in the south of England and Midlands. Clients included nearly all of the major house-builders, high profile retailers and renewable energy companies. It was a fascinating experience that saw me work on projects including the largest incarnation of a multi-national company's store and the tallest building in a particular London borough. My role ranged from engaging with local and national politicians through to speaking to community groups and residents to ensure they had input into the planning proposals.

Studies

My interest in politics dates back to my sixth form studies of Disraeli and Gladstone. I have served as a Community / Parish Councillor in two areas and stood in council, Senedd, Police Commissioner and UK Parliamentary elections. Each aspect of this was fascinating and I learned a lot, but I still felt there was an element of my interest in politics that I wanted to explore more deeply. Being a candidate or activist can sometimes lead one down a route of repeating a slogan rather than asking a difficult question, but good governance requires politely asked awkward questions to be posed.

At the age of 37, I returned to studying undertaking an MSc Econ in International Relations at Cardiff University. This course was superb and while I was delighted to achieve the qualification, I am also still benefiting from the way in which it allowed me to better comprehend and frame geopolitics. My studies included international relations theory, surveillance and accountability, human rights, technology, political economy and defence strategy. 

There are moments in my work where aspects of international relations are of relevance, notably during the response to the COVID-19 pandemic, but for the most part I continue my interest in international relations in my spare time through attending talks, writing articles and reading.

Broadcast & publication

I have taken part in live television, radio and podcast discussion and debate programmes. Topics I've covered have included energy, local government, planning, policing, and election analysis. My writing has been published by think tanks, news outlets and professional organisations.