Words: Jordan Millar, Senior Account Manager
March 5, 2025
Leading strategic communications and engagement consultancy, JBP Communications, has appointed Jonathan Simpson as its new Director of Public Affairs.
Simpson, a respected public affairs specialist, brings more than 25 years of experience to the national firm and will strengthen the offering of its already established Westminster-based political team.
Over his career, which has been deeply-rooted in politics and media relations, Simpson has advised clients across a range of sectors including regeneration, culture, energy, healthcare and sport.
His portfolio of high-profile and award-winning campaigns includes work with Chelsea FC, Regal, Barratt London, McDonald’s, Tesco Stores Limited, the City of Sacramento and the RAC Foundation, and his expertise in strategic engagement has helped clients secure successful planning consents in nearly every London borough.
Simpson is also actively involved in the Labour Party and has served as a Councillor in the London Borough of Camden for almost 23 years, working closely with Sir Keir Starmer for over a decade.
He has advised the Labour Party on culture, tourism and sport policy, and in 2021 received an MBE in the Queen’s Birthday Honours for services to Local Government in Camden, to Charity and to Culture in London.
Commenting on his new role, he said: “I am delighted to be joining JBP Communications – a consultancy with a strong reputation for delivering impactful public affairs and strategic engagement services. This is an exciting step and I look forward to working with the talented team to support our clients in navigating the complex political and policy landscapes.”
Chris Lawrance, Managing Director for JBP Communications, added: “Jonathan’s storied career and deep understanding of public affairs make him an invaluable addition to our leadership team and we look forward to seeing how his expertise will build on our already stellar political offering.
“His appointment is the latest milestone development for JBP Communications and underscores our commitment to helping clients chart a course for the policy decisions that matter most to them.”
Jonathan’s appointment comes as the consultancy undertakes a major expansion strategy – which includes the opening of new offices in Cardiff and Harrogate, allowing it to more directly deliver PR, political affairs, stakeholder engagement and creative and digital services support to businesses across the country.