Public affairs today is more than just political lobbying. It requires working with other policy-making bodies, such as regulators, commercial organizations and other interested parties. Public Affairs in Practice is the first book to examine the methods public affairs professionals use to make an impact. It covers each aspect of the industry and examines the tools needed to deliver an effective public affairs program. It also highlights the potential benefits of public affairs, including protection from perceived threats of new regulation, identifying new market opportunities and raising the profile of an organization. Not only do the authors consider established markets (the US, UK and Western Europe), but also the opportunities presented to companies by the EU accession states and China, where there are currently very few public affairs professionals. With case studies and tips from industry professionals, this is a practical how-to guide for both practitioners and students.
Dr Stuart Thomson is a Public Affairs Consultant at Bircham Dyson Bell, the leading law firm and Parliamentary Agency. He was previously a Director at the public affairs arm of DLA Piper, the global law firm. He writes and lectures on business and political issues and is the author of several books. Stuart is also an honorary research fellow at the University of Aberdeen.
Dr Steve John is Director of Government Affairs for PepsiCo UK and Ireland. Before that, he ran Upstream, the political consultancy and regulatory affairs division of the international law firm, DLA Piper. He has also worked as a journalist and as a political consultant for a number of government relations firms.