When you work
in Westminster, a lot can happen in 18 months...
Budget days. Dawn media rounds. Party Conferences. More TV studios than I can
count. And a trip to the U.S to talk tax with world famous economist Dr Arthur
Laffer.
After a fascinating year-and-a-half as Media Adviser to the Shadow Chancellor
of the Exchequer, it is time for a new chapter.
It has been a privilege. A front-row seat to politics, economics and
communications at the highest level - helping shape messages, navigate big
moments, and occasionally test ideas. Some worked better than others. A
"10 Things You Didn't Know About Mel Stride" briefing got journalists
talking at last year's Conservative Party Conference. My proposal to brand
Rachel Reeves the "Chancer of the Exchequer", following her CV
debacle, never quite secured Sir Mel's approval.
From drafting op-eds, writing quotes and pitching stories to scripting, filming
and editing social media videos, it has been an incredible experience - and one
I am lucky to have had.
I have worked with exceptional people. I am hugely grateful to Mel, Kemi, their
teams, and the many colleagues who have trusted, challenged and supported me
over the past 18-months. Thanks must also go to all the wonderful journalists I
have worked with along the way.
Leaving is not an easy decision, but it is the right one for me and my young
family at this particular moment. Regardless, I will be cheering Kemi and her
team on from the side lines.
I am proud of what we have achieved, thankful for everything I have learned,
and excited about what is next...whatever that may be!
When you leave a role, you receive plenty of messages from colleagues and friends.
Some are kind. Some make you smile. Some leave you feeling genuinely grateful.
One prominent broadcaster - who will remain nameless - sent me one of the funniest: "James - the Westminster resignation I'm most upset about!"
But the message that touched me most was from Kemi, in the form of a handwritten note.
I'll keep the contents private, but it was a thoughtful gesture that I'll remember for a long time.
Leadership is often judged by the biggest moments, but I've come to believe it's the smaller ones that reveal the most about someone's character.
Taking the time to personally thank someone, despite everything else competing for your attention, is one of them.
It's a small act, but one that says a great deal about our future Prime Minister.
That's a wrap.
My final week in the Shadow Chancellor's office was a fitting sign-off: starting with the Sunday morning media round, spending the week placing stories and writing op-eds, before ending where every good Westminster chapter should...in the pub.
Fast-paced. Challenging. Never dull.
It's been a privilege to be part of an exceptional team (special shout out to
my friend, the masterful James
Heywood), at the heart of some remarkable moments.
On to the next challenge...
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