Senior Account Executive Ben Farmer gives an insight into what he loves most about working in PLMR’s award winning Public Affairs Practice.
Mix of clients
Starting out, I knew I was interested in campaigning and public affairs, but I hadn’t yet found my ‘cause’ or key issue. Consequently, PLMR’s generalist public affairs team really appealed to me and allowed me to further my policy knowledge in sectors including higher education and health, whilst gaining new experiences in sectors such as the early years and property.
No day is the same
It’s one of the biggest cliches going in jobs but it is genuinely true in PLMR’s public affairs practice. Whether it’s the changing news agenda, political developments or evolving client priorities, there’s always something happening which means each day is different. This keeps the work fresh and creates a fast-moving atmosphere is interesting and enjoyable.
Expertise on tap
As part of our public affairs team we have access to a range of senior advisers who are on hand to provide advice but also to support colleagues’ career development. Bringing their insights from business, the government and media, our advisers add their own perspective on campaign strategies whilst also supporting us to get on with the job and develop our expertise.
Being at the heart of it all
Working at Church House in central Westminster means we’re right by Parliament and the London offices of the major government Departments. Not only does this make each lunch trip a fun ‘spot the MP or broadcaster’ experience, but it also enables us to easily attend Parliamentary events and networking events; vital for keeping ahead of what’s going on at the heart of government.
Making a difference
My favourite clients to work for are those which are making a meaningful difference in the world, especially in the third sector. Often the tighter budgets and timelines can make the projects more intense, but they are also incredibly rewarding and varied.
Top projects for our Practice include helping British Heart Foundation with their 2022 political party conference engagement activity, advancing the Canal and Rivers Trust’s understanding of their key stakeholders, and supporting School-Home Support to gain MP supporters for their campaign to tackle persistent absence.
