Jasmine Croad: A Rising Star in Public Affairs and Stakeholder Management at HS2 Ltd
In the dynamic world of public affairs and policy engagement, few professionals have made as significant an impact in recent years as Jasmine Croad. As a Stakeholder Manager for Public Affairs at HS2 Ltd, Croad has built a reputation for her exceptional communication skills, strategic thinking, and ability to engage key stakeholders. Her career trajectory showcases a blend of expertise in public affairs, government relations, and low-carbon policy, making her a highly influential figure in the UK’s infrastructure development landscape. This article delves into Jasmine Croad’s career, achievements, and the role she plays in shaping the future of high-speed rail development in the United Kingdom.
Early Career and Education
Jasmine Croad’s journey into the world of public affairs began at The London School of Economics and Political Science (LSE), where she earned a Bachelor of Science (BSc) in Social Anthropology. While studying at LSE, Croad demonstrated her commitment to leadership and community engagement, notably being an active member of the LSE Rowing Club.
Her academic background provided her with a solid foundation in understanding societal structures, which proved to be invaluable in her later work in public policy and stakeholder management. Graduating with honors in 2013, Croad set her sights on a career that would allow her to influence public policy while engaging with diverse communities and stakeholders.
First Professional Steps: The House of Commons and Public Affairs
Croad’s first significant foray into the world of public affairs was as a Caseworker at the House of Commons, where she worked from August 2020 to May 2021. In this role, she assisted constituents with a range of issues, from personal concerns to matters related to government policies. This hands-on experience in the political arena honed her ability to navigate complex political systems and work with a diverse range of individuals, skills that would prove essential in her future roles.
After her time at the House of Commons, Croad joined THIRTY4/7 Communications, a leading public affairs consultancy, where she rapidly rose through the ranks. Beginning as an Account Executive, she worked closely with clients to craft public relations strategies and navigate the political landscape. Her ability to engage stakeholders and understand public policy issues quickly earned her a promotion to Senior Account Executive and later to Junior Account Manager.
In these roles, Jasmine Croad was able to sharpen her skills in strategic communications, stakeholder management, and public affairs—a trifecta of expertise that would later serve her well in her work with HS2 Ltd.
Transition to Low Carbon Policy: A Role at Gemserv
In September 2022, Croad transitioned to Gemserv, a B Corp certified company focused on delivering innovative solutions for the energy, environment, and public sectors. As a Policy and Insight Analyst specializing in Low Carbon strategies, Jasmine was responsible for policy analysis, stakeholder engagement, and governance procedures. This role allowed her to develop a deep understanding of the UK’s transition to a low-carbon economy and the policies needed to support sustainable development.
Her time at Gemserv provided her with a wealth of experience in government policy analysis, especially in the realm of low-carbon energy and sustainability—key issues that are pivotal in the current global climate discourse. This knowledge base would later influence her work in HS2 Ltd, particularly in aligning infrastructure projects with environmental sustainability goals.
Role at HS2 Ltd: Shaping the Future of High-Speed Rail
In May 2023, Jasmine Croad joined HS2 Ltd, taking on the pivotal role of Stakeholder Manager – Public Affairs. This position places her at the heart of one of the most ambitious infrastructure projects in the UK—the construction of a high-speed rail line that will connect London to major cities like Birmingham, Manchester, and Leeds.
HS2 is a transformative project that has faced both strong support and vocal opposition, and navigating these complex stakeholder dynamics requires a skilled communicator and strategist like Croad. As a Stakeholder Manager, Jasmine’s primary responsibility is to manage and cultivate relationships with political stakeholders, local communities, government bodies, and contractors involved in the HS2 project.
One of the most significant challenges in her role is balancing the needs and concerns of local communities impacted by the construction of the rail line, with the long-term benefits that HS2 will bring to the region in terms of connectivity, economic growth, and job creation. Jasmine Croad’s ability to engage with these stakeholders and address their concerns has been vital in ensuring that the project progresses smoothly.
The Commonwealth Connections Exhibition: A Testament to Leadership
In 2021, Jasmine’s leadership abilities and political acumen were recognized by the Speaker of the House of Commons, Sir Lindsay Hoyle MP, when she was selected to represent Jamaica in the prestigious Commonwealth Connections Parliamentary Exhibition. This exhibition, which brings together leaders and young professionals from across the Commonwealth, provides a platform for cross-cultural dialogue and policy exchange. Croad’s selection for this event highlights her growing prominence in public affairs and her ability to connect with international stakeholders on a global stage.
This recognition further underscores Croad’s commitment to fostering international collaboration and her deep understanding of the intersection between public policy and global governance.
Volunteering and Mentorship: Giving Back to the Community
Beyond her professional career, Jasmine Croad is also dedicated to mentoring the next generation of leaders. Since December 2022, she has been serving as a BME Mentor at LSE, where she provides guidance and support to students from Black and Minority Ethnic backgrounds. Croad’s passion for diversity and inclusion is evident in her volunteer work, where she helps students navigate the challenges of higher education and public policy careers.
Her commitment to mentorship and social justice aligns with the values of HS2 Ltd, which emphasizes equality, diversity, and inclusion in all aspects of its operations. Croad’s role as a mentor is a reflection of her broader commitment to fostering positive social change, both within and outside her professional circles.
Awards and Achievements: A Recognized Leader
Throughout her career, Jasmine Croad has received numerous accolades for her work in public policy and communications. In addition to her role in the Commonwealth Connections Exhibition, she was awarded the Politics Prize and Sociology Prize at Denmark Road Grammar School. These awards recognized her exceptional academic performance and passion for politics, which would lay the foundation for her future career in public affairs.
Furthermore, Croad was the Runner-up in the European Parliament Euroscola Debating Competition, a recognition that speaks to her strong communication skills and her ability to think critically about European and global political issues.
Conclusion
Jasmine Croad’s career is a testament to her unwavering commitment to public service, stakeholder engagement, and sustainability. From her early days in the House of Commons to her current role at HS2 Ltd, she has consistently demonstrated a unique blend of political insight, strategic thinking, and communication skills. As HS2 continues to reshape the UK’s transport infrastructure, professionals like Jasmine will play a crucial role in ensuring that the project is carried out in a way that benefits all stakeholders involved.
Her journey serves as an inspiration to those aspiring to work in public affairs, policy analysis, and infrastructure development. With her passion, expertise, and leadership, Jasmine Croad is undoubtedly a rising star in the world of public affairs and stakeholder management.
