On Wednesday 14 January 2026, Hanson Search will host its annual public affairs webinar, Britain 2026: The Year Ahead in Politics.

Britain 2026 Public Affairs Webinar overview

This webinar will offer an expert-led analysis of what lies ahead for UK politics. Crucially, it will explore what these developments mean in practice for organisations operating in a complex policy environment. As the political landscape continues to shift, the panel will examine the key developments likely to shape the year ahead. Drawing on experience from government, consultancy and corporate affairs, speakers will provide insight into how political priorities may translate into policy decisions, regulatory change and public debate.

Event details

Date: Wednesday 14 January 2026
Time: 9:00am (UK time)
Format: Live webinar (Zoom)
Registration link

Webinar host

The session will be hosted by Janie Emmerson, Managing Partner and Global Public Affairs Lead at Hanson Search. She will guide the discussion and highlight the implications for organisations engaging with government and regulators.

Guest speakers

Anita Boateng, Senior Partner, Portland

Anita is a Senior Partner at Portland. Previously, she held senior roles at FTI Consulting. Before that, she worked at the highest levels of government as a special adviser in the Cabinet Office, Ministry of Justice and Department for Work and Pensions. As a result, she brings first-hand experience of policymaking and strategic advisory work.

Luke Francis, Associate Partner, Pagefield

Luke is an Associate Partner at Pagefield with more than a decade of experience advising senior leaders across the public and private sectors. In particular, he has supported politicians at both regional and national level. This includes advising the Mayor of London and the Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport.

Jim Bligh, Corporate Affairs Director, leading trade association

Jim is a senior corporate affairs leader with extensive experience across government relations, communications and policy. Over the past decade, he has worked with major UK and international organisations. During this time, he has led engagement on some of the most complex and sensitive policy challenges facing business and government.

Key political issues for 2026

During the webinar, the panel will discuss:

  • Economic outlook and fiscal policy
  • Public services and social welfare reform
  • Immigration, asylum and border control
  • Defence, security and foreign policy

Register for the webinar

To attend, please register via Zoom to confirm your place.

Enquiries

For further information, please contact events@hansonsearch.com

About Hanson Search

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, public affairs and policy, sustainability, digital marketing and sales.

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