Join us for an insightful morning session as we explore the outcome of this summer’s general election and the anticipated policies from the new administration addressing the country’s most pressing matters. This event, moderated by Joe Shipley, partner at Kekst CNC, will bring together Lord Iain McNicol of West Kilbride, former General Secretary of the Labour party, and Sir Robbie Gibb, previously Theresa May’s Director of Communications. 

Together, we will examine and discuss the political shift in governance following 14 years of Conservative rule, analyse the election results, review the turbulent pre-election period, and reflect on what the new Government might bring for the UK and its relations with other nations.

Labelled as the year of elections, 2024 will see over half the global population casting their votes. This business breakfast offers a unique opportunity to gain a deeper understanding of the UK’s evolving political landscape and its impact on various stakeholders.

Register now to join us for a business breakfast that addresses a nation in transition, filled with challenges and opportunities. Stay informed on the latest topics and discussions among decision-makers of today.

About the speakers

Joe Shipley 

Joe leads Kekst CNC’s public affairs team in London, helping clients build integrated campaigns to engage in the public policy and legislative process. He also has over a decade’s experience of helping private equity firms to integrate reputation management tools into private equity value creation programmes.​ Joe has helped clients develop and execute integrated public policy and issues management campaigns. He has also advised on a large number of private equity backed transactions and government asset sales.​ Joe has extensive knowledge of the legislative and policy development process. He is an expert in helping clients prepare for parliamentary select committee inquiries and has carried out academic research in this area.​

Lord Iain McNicol 

Lord Iain McNicol of West Kilbride serves as Labour member of the House of Lords. Previously he was a Deputy Speaker followed by Shadow Spokesperson for the Department of Business and Trade. He began his political career as National Campaigns and Membership Officer for Labour Students. Moving to London, he worked as a Labour Party organiser and agent from 1994 to 1997. He then served with the GMB Union, starting as a regional organiser in 1998 and eventually becoming National Political Officer in 2004, responsible for political strategy and member representation. Selected as Labour's General Secretary in 2011 despite opposition from Ed Miliband, McNicol's tenure was marked by tensions with Jeremy Corbyn. 

After Sir Keir Starmer's election as Labour leader, McNicol resumed involvement in party leadership. McNicol joined Kekst CNC’s senior advisory team to provide insight into the Labour party and its leadership as we enter a General Election year. He is also currently chairing the Institute of Directors Commission to develop a Code of Conduct for Directors.

Sir Robbie Gibb 

Sir Robbie Gibb is a seasoned political advisor, broadcast journalist and communications professional with an insider’s knowledge of the British political landscape and an expert understanding of the Brexit process.​ For two years Robbie was Downing Street’s Director of Communications and one of Prime Minister Theresa May’s closest political advisers.​ He joined from the BBC in the aftermath of the 2017 General Election and was intimately involved in the development and selling of Britain’s policy to leave the EU. His first-hand experience and insight into the political drama surrounding Brexit gives him an unparalleled understanding of the challenges the Government now faces in Europe and in Parliament.​

At Number 10 Robbie worked across every area of policy including preparations for the annual budget, drawing up the long-term plan for the NHS and new measures to combat plastic waste.​

About the Business Breakfast

The SCC’s Business Breakfasts bring together tailored and differently composed, intimate groups for interactive roundtable discussions and great speakers. The format is informal and under Chatham House Rule.

Booking information

Please register your interest to attend this event. Participant lists are curated with the theme of each Business Breakfast in mind, for all attendees to get the most out of the discussions. You will be notified if your participation has been confirmed. Payment will be made upon confirmation.

SCC member price: Free

YP member price: Free

Non-member price: £30

Terms & Conditions 

Bookings are non-refundable, but at the discretion of the organiser, you can change the name of the person attending. For this, please contact events@scc.org.uk.