Will Walden: A Leading Force in Strategic Communications and Political Advisory
In the realm of strategic communications, Will Walden stands out as one of the most influential and respected figures. With decades of experience spanning media, politics, and public affairs, Walden has built a career marked by critical roles in both the public and private sectors. From his time as an adviser to Boris Johnson to his leadership at Edelman, Walden has shaped some of the most significant political campaigns, media strategies, and corporate communication efforts in the UK and beyond.
This article delves into the career of Will Walden, his contributions to politics and public relations, and his remarkable journey that has made him a key player in the communications industry.
Early Career in Journalism
Before stepping into the world of strategic communications, Will Walden made his mark in journalism. He spent nearly 20 years working with prestigious media organizations like ITN and the BBC, where he honed his skills in news reporting, editing, and production.
At ITN, Walden started his career as a sports reporter for ITN’s News at Ten, covering major events like the FIFA World Cup and the Tour de France. His journalistic career quickly expanded, and he moved into more senior roles. His time at BBC News was particularly significant, where he served as the Chief Political Producer, the Westminster News Editor, and the Deputy Bureau Chief in Washington, D.C. During these years, Walden was at the forefront of covering major political stories, including 9/11, the Iraq War, and multiple UK General Elections.
His deep understanding of political journalism and his ability to navigate complex media environments set the stage for his transition into political consulting and strategic communications, where he would leave an even bigger mark.
Transition into Political Advisory Roles
In the mid-2000s, Walden shifted from media to political advisory roles. His first major political move came in 2012, when he joined the Greater London Authority as the Director of Communications & External Affairs under Boris Johnson, the Mayor of London. In this capacity, Walden managed the communication strategies between City Hall, the media, and various public stakeholders.
One of his most significant contributions was his role in overseeing communications during the 2012 London Olympics. Walden helped ensure that the global event went smoothly from a communications perspective, managing crises and handling public relations to deliver a successful Olympic experience. His work in public affairs was pivotal, as he navigated the media landscape, coordinated with government agencies, and shaped the messaging surrounding London’s major events.
Walden’s role expanded as he became Johnson’s official spokesperson and press secretary. His ability to craft messages, manage the media, and advise on political strategy made him an invaluable asset to the Mayor’s office. This marked the beginning of a long professional relationship with Boris Johnson, which would continue for many years.
Advising Boris Johnson: A Key Relationship
The professional relationship between Will Walden and Boris Johnson reached new heights when Walden began advising Johnson at the Foreign Office. In 2016, Walden served as Chief Advisor to Boris Johnson, who was then the UK Foreign Secretary. During this time, Walden played a crucial role in shaping Johnson’s media strategy and political messaging, particularly during the Brexit referendum campaign. His strategic advice was central in navigating the complex political landscape of that period.
Walden’s influence grew even further when he advised Johnson during his leadership bid for the Conservative Party and his eventual Prime Ministership. As Johnson’s senior communications advisor, Walden managed the media strategy during critical moments, including preparing Johnson for TV debates, hustings, and major media interviews.
His understanding of how Boris Johnson operates, both in front of the camera and behind the scenes, earned Walden recognition as a trusted strategist. As PR Week highlighted in 2021, Walden was regarded as one of the “adults in the room,” someone who understood the complexities of political communication and could manage the public perception of one of the UK’s most high-profile leaders.
Leadership at Edelman
In 2017, Walden made a significant career shift when he joined Edelman, one of the world’s leading global public relations firms. At Edelman, he was appointed as the Managing Director of Public Affairs. In this role, he advised a range of clients on public policy, political risk, and crisis communications. His leadership of Edelman’s Public Affairs division helped strengthen the firm’s position as a top player in the global communications landscape.
In 2019, Walden transitioned into his current role as Executive Director & Chief Counsel for Strategic Communications. As a senior leader at Edelman, Walden provides strategic counsel to C-suite clients across various industries, including media relations, crisis communications, political strategy, and international affairs. He works with clients to navigate complex political environments and media challenges, using his vast experience in both government and private sectors.
At Edelman, Walden has become an essential adviser for businesses and political leaders alike. His ability to offer strategic guidance during times of crisis, as well as his expertise in media relations, has made him a go-to figure for those looking to manage complex reputational risks.
Speechwriting and Messaging Expertise
One of Walden’s core areas of expertise is speechwriting and narrative development. His ability to craft impactful speeches and develop coherent messages for leaders has been a defining aspect of his career. From Boris Johnson’s leadership campaigns to advising high-profile executives at Edelman, Walden excels in helping clients articulate their messages effectively.
Whether it’s a major policy announcement, a crisis communication plan, or a corporate positioning speech, Walden’s guidance has shaped some of the most significant public addresses of his career. His role as a chief writer and speech strategist has made him a key figure in managing the narrative for top politicians and global brands.
Recognition and Impact
Walden’s influence extends beyond his work with clients and political leaders. His achievements have earned him recognition in the PR industry, including being named to PR Week’s PowerBook Top 10 Public Affairs Practitioners every year since 2017. Additionally, from 2013 to 2017, he was featured in the Evening Standard’s 1000 Influentials List, a testament to his role as one of the most impactful figures in UK communications.
His work has been widely acknowledged for its sophistication and strategic insight. As PR Week noted, Walden’s deep understanding of political dynamics, coupled with his ability to navigate media landscapes, positions him as a leading figure in the world of strategic communications.
Conclusion
Will Walden has established himself as a leader in strategic communications, drawing on decades of experience in media, politics, and public affairs. From his pivotal roles in advising Boris Johnson to his leadership at Edelman, Walden’s influence has shaped some of the most important campaigns and media strategies in recent history. His expertise in navigating crises, managing political messaging, and advising high-profile clients makes him a respected figure in both the UK political scene and the global PR industry.
As businesses and political leaders continue to face complex challenges in today’s fast-paced media environment, Will Walden remains a vital asset, offering invaluable advice on how to manage media relationships, political risks, and public perception.
