MRM hires Havard Hughes from the FCA to power public affairs proposition

MRM, the award-winning financial services communications consultancy, has hired Havard Hughes from the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) to launch a full-service public affairs division within the business.
The new division will offer new and existing clients a comprehensive public affairs service including parliamentary and political intelligence, parliamentary counsel, government and opposition relations, and regulatory affairs.
Hughes, who joins MRM with immediate effect, is a seasoned public affairs professional with a 20 year track record of delivering public affairs and public relations campaigns for household name organisations across the financial services sector.
Commenting, Havard Hughes said:
“The ever expanding range of laws and regulations from Westminster, FCA, EU and international sources means that it is vital that those involved in financial services are able to make their case to legislators.
“As we head towards the General Election, financial services will feature prominently. Political parties are already jostling for position in a bid to demonstrate that they are on the side of voters. It is vital that that those involved in financial services engage in this conversation to make sure that it is an informed debate.
“‎MRM has built itself a reputation of being passionate about financial services – a sector I’ve worked in from the start of my career. I’m looking forward to setting a new benchmark for public affairs consultancy and challenging the established players.”
Andrew Appleyard, Director at MRM said:
“It has been our intention for some time to enhance our existing offering to include parliamentary relations and regulatory affairs. Having looked at a number of options and spoken to a wide range of highly experienced practitioners, Havard was the standout candidate. In him we have found a regulatory insider with a comprehensive understanding of the political challenges the financial industry faces and we are thrilled to have him on the team.”
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