News

Turley strengthens Strategic Communications service with three new appointments

We have strengthened our Strategic Communications team with three new hires, appointing Chris Peacock and Rachel Edwards as Directors in Manchester and Belfast respectively, and James Newhall as Associate Director in Reading.

Chris joins from Lexington Communications where he was a Director. Bringing over 15 years’ experience in strategic communications and politics, he has a strong track record of delivering planning communications strategies and public affairs campaigns for the built environment across a range of sectors including mixed-use development, sports and stadia, and net zero infrastructure. Alongside effective stakeholder engagement, managing crisis communications and high-risk communications, Chris has an expert knowledge of local, regional and national government.

With a strong track record of leading communications strategies and corporate communications, alongside social value expertise, Rachel joins our Belfast team with over 15 years’ experience in marketing and communications. Previously Head of PR and Communications at Artemis Technologies, Rachel has also worked at the Strategic Investment Board, an arm’s length body of the Northern Ireland Civil Service that delivers long-term transformation projects and advises on investment planning and implementation.

In Reading, James joins as Associate Director from Stoke Park Limited, where he was Head of Corporate Affairs. James has a wealth of experience in communications, specialising in public affairs and stakeholder engagement. With an agency background that complements our planning communications focus, James’ experience builds on his parliamentary and political knowledge having also served as an advisor to two senior MPs.

The appointments expand our team’s geographical reach and add further specialist knowledge to our Strategic Communications service across the UK and Ireland. Focused on people, places and property development, the team work with clients including housebuilders, developers and local authorities to deliver bespoke communications across the built environment.

Speaking about the appointments, Head of Strategic Communications, John Davison, said:

“Chris, Rachel and James will play a crucial role in strengthening our ability to deliver trusted strategic communications advice to our clients across the UK and Ireland.

“With the change in UK Government last year and new legislation in Ireland, planning has never had such political and economic focus, it’s a fascinating time to be working in Strategic Communications and we’re seeing a clear demand for creativity, strong engagement and positive relationships with communities. Chris, Rachel and James’ wealth of experience in translating complex jargon into creative, authentic and engaging campaigns will further strengthen our success in securing positive outcomes and driving sustainable change for our clients and communities.” 

21 January 2025