Leadership Lessons with Leon Cook, Founding Partner at Atticus Partners

Managing Partner at Hanson Search, Janie Emmerson, recently sat down with Leon Cook, Founding Partner at Atticus Partners, to explore his journey into public affairs, the evolving demands of leadership in a political consultancy and how agencies can drive commercial success while shaping public policy in a fast-changing environment.

How did you get into Public Affairs and Politics?

I came into public affairs through a combination of timing, interest and opportunity. I studied politics and like many, I started off by working in an elected chamber, albeit for me in the United States doing research and casework. From there I moved into agency life which allowed me to work across a broad range of clients and sectors. That variety of opportunity was what really hooked me – helping people navigate political systems, understanding how policy intersects with business, and doing meaningful work that shapes outcomes.

What do you think are the key qualities needed from leaders in public affairs and politics in 2025?

Looking ahead, leaders in our sector need to be entrepreneurial, adaptable and deeply networked. The days of relying on institutional reputation are gone. You need to be able to demonstrate commercial acumen, create opportunities and inspire confidence in clients. Network is critical. Clients want senior advisers who can walk into a room and command an understanding of the commerciality of what they do, and tell them how they should react to events on the ground. Leaders must be able to grow teams, drive profitability and remain politically astute in a rapidly shifting landscape.

What are the key challenges that you’re facing in your role as a leader? And how can you navigate them?

One of the biggest challenges is balancing growth with profitability. In public affairs, it’s easy to build headcount before you’ve got the right client base to sustain it. I’m focused on ensuring that we hire people who not only bring in revenue but also fit into our long-term vision. Another challenge is talent – finding people with both the network and the confidence to lead from the front. We’re navigating this by creating entrepreneurial roles where leaders can shape their own teams and build their own P&L.

How important is Public Affairs representation at Board level from your perspective?

It’s hugely important. Public affairs shouldn’t be seen as a siloed function. It’s core to reputation, risk and business strategy. Having a voice at Board level ensures the public policy perspective is built into key decisions early rather than being an afterthought. The best businesses understand that their licence to operate is influenced by their political and regulatory environment and public affairs leaders are central to managing that.

How do you see the Public Affairs market evolving over the next five years?

The market is becoming more integrated. Clients want agencies and advisers who can work across corporate strategy, financial comms and public affairs. That blend is where real strategic value lies. We’re also seeing demand for more senior advisers who can bring holistic insight, especially as regulatory environments become more complex. ESG, for example, is driving demand for consultants who understand both the politics and the practicalities of implementation.

What advice do you have for someone looking to build a career in public affairs and/or politics?

Get as much experience as you can, both in-house and agency if possible. Build your network constantly and be intentional about it. Don’t just attend events, contribute to them. Understand the commercial side of the business early on. If you want to lead one day, you need to know how to make a team profitable. And finally, keep your curiosity. Politics and public affairs are fast-moving. Being able to adapt and stay engaged is what will set you apart.

Whether you’re hiring top Public Affairs talent or considering your next career move, our team would be delighted to support you.

Janie Emmerson is Managing Partner, UK & Europe and Global Public Affairs Lead.

Hanson Search is a globally recognised, award-winning talent advisory and headhunting consultancy. Our expertise lies in building successful ventures worldwide through our recruitment, interim and executive search in communications, sustainability, public affairs and policy, digital marketing, and sales.