Insights from the Labour Party Conference 2025

Last week, the Labour Party gathered in Liverpool for its annual conference. With a year in government now behind them, the conversation was less about pledges and more about delivery. What has been achieved so far and the policies that will shape the next stage of leadership.  The headlines were hard to miss. Rachel Reeves refused to rule out a rise in VAT, foreign policy was a major talking point with Gaza reflecting both political and public pressure and there was a pointed attack on the Reform Party, which Labour clearly views as a growing threat at the next election. Hanson Search’s Janie Emmerson, Managing Partner and Peter Ferguson, Managing Consultant, were there to hear from ministers, business leaders and policy specialists. Here are some of the key themes they took away from the event. 

Labour’s political direction 

Ministers were keen to highlight achievements from their first year in power while acknowledging that there is far more to be done. Restoring economic confidence and maintaining public trust came through as priorities, with an emphasis on visible progress. For agencies and communications leaders, the mood highlighted the need for substance over rhetoric. Stakeholders now demand evidence of delivery and clear results and reputations will be judged accordingly. 

Technology and jobs shaping the future workforce 

The role of technology in the workplace was a central theme. While disruption and job displacement were acknowledged, the focus was on upskilling and creating new forms of employment. The message was clear, technology should be seen as an enabler, provided organisations invest in training and safeguards. For employers, this makes openness about how change is handled and the role of people within it, essential. 

What it means for agencies and consultancies 

The discussions in Liverpool reflected an industry in transition. Routine tasks are becoming increasingly automated, raising the value of strategic advice, senior counsel and the ability to navigate complex issues. Agile, smaller firms with the capacity to pivot quickly and offer innovative thinking are gaining ground. Larger players, meanwhile, face the challenge of proving they can combine their scale with adaptability. 

What’s next for Labour and for business 

The conference showed that Labour is determined to demonstrate measurable progress. The bigger test will be maintaining that momentum while also presenting a compelling long-term vision. For business, communications and consultancy leaders, the implications are equally clear: credibility now rests on more than intent. Delivery, transparency and evidence of impact will be the markers of success. For us, the conversations in Liverpool reinforced what we hear from clients and candidates every day. The demand for leaders who can think strategically, communicate with authority and steer organisations through change. As the political and economic environment evolves, the need for senior advisers across corporate affairs, communications and public policy will only grow. 

At Hanson Search, our focus remains on helping organisations secure top public affairs and policy talent. Whether you’re hiring or considering your next career move, our team would be delighted to support you. 

Peter Ferguson is Managing Consultant in the Public Affairs Practice.  

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.