Ellie Mae O’Hagan: A Prominent British Political Strategist and Communicator
Ellie Mae O’Hagan is a renowned British political strategist, communications expert, and journalist. With extensive experience in both public affairs and strategic communications, she has played a significant role in shaping political discourse in the United Kingdom. Her career spans leadership roles in prominent organizations, including the Good Law Project and the Centre for Labour and Social Studies (CLASS). O’Hagan’s work reflects a deep commitment to progressive politics, social justice, and effective communication strategies.
Early Life and Education
Ellie Mae O’Hagan’s educational background is grounded in the humanities, which laid the foundation for her career in communications and public affairs. She attended the University of Liverpool, where she completed a Bachelor of Arts in English Language and Literature. O’Hagan later pursued a Master of Arts in English Literature (British and Commonwealth), which further developed her critical thinking, writing, and analytical skills. These academic experiences have played an essential role in her ability to dissect political events and convey complex ideas in accessible ways.
Her education in literature and language undoubtedly influences her approach to communications, where clarity and the ability to craft compelling narratives are paramount. This strong academic background has allowed O’Hagan to transition seamlessly into various roles within political organizations and media platforms.
Professional Experience
Strategic Communications Specialist
O’Hagan’s career began in strategic communications, where she honed her skills as a freelance journalist and consultant. Her work as a communications specialist saw her advising high-profile figures, political leaders, and organizations on public relations and media strategy. She was responsible for providing guidance on election campaigns, public opinion research, and media training. Her ability to craft messages that resonated with the public made her a sought-after consultant during some of the UK’s most significant political events.
Director at Centre for Labour and Social Studies (CLASS)
From February 2021 to August 2022, Ellie Mae O’Hagan served as the Director of the Centre for Labour and Social Studies (CLASS), a UK think tank that focuses on progressive politics. In this role, she provided leadership across the organization’s operations, from finances and media strategy to political advocacy. O’Hagan was instrumental in determining the think tank’s policy agenda, which sought to address key social issues such as inequality, housing, and workers’ rights.
Her leadership at CLASS involved close collaboration with politicians, trade unionists, journalists, and other public figures. She was responsible for mentoring the organization’s public affairs officer and overseeing a series of impactful research reports that made crucial policy interventions in the political cycle. O’Hagan’s work at CLASS positioned her as a thought leader in the realm of progressive political strategy.
Head of Engagement at Good Law Project
In 2022, O’Hagan took on the role of Head of External Engagement at the Good Law Project, an organization focused on using the law to hold the government accountable. Her responsibilities included managing key relationships with politicians, political advisers, businesses, and NGOs. O’Hagan was also in charge of overseeing the organization’s political strategy, particularly in the lead-up to the next general election.
Her work at Good Law Project highlighted her ability to navigate complex political environments, where relationship-building and strategic messaging are critical to success. O’Hagan’s efforts in developing effective engagement strategies and managing stakeholder relationships helped raise the profile of the organization, furthering its mission of legal accountability.
Program Lead at E3G
As of September 2024, Ellie Mae O’Hagan serves as the Program Lead for the UK energy team at E3G, a prominent environmental organization. In this position, she is focused on driving forward the UK’s energy policy, with a particular emphasis on climate change and energy transition. O’Hagan’s role at E3G is significant in shaping the country’s approach to sustainable energy, highlighting her adaptability and her commitment to addressing climate change through strategic communication and policy engagement.
Contributions to the Agitpod Podcast
One of the most notable aspects of Ellie Mae O’Hagan’s career is her work as co-host of the Agitpod podcast alongside journalist Owen Jones. The podcast, which provided a space for left-wing political discourse, became an essential part of the political conversation in the UK. Through Agitpod, O’Hagan and Jones discussed pressing political and social issues, often featuring interviews with key figures from the political and activist spheres.
O’Hagan’s insights into political strategy, combined with Jones’s experience as a columnist and author, made Agitpod a popular podcast for listeners interested in progressive politics. Together, they explored topics ranging from economic inequality and climate change to electoral reform and social justice. O’Hagan’s role as a co-host showcased her communication skills and her ability to break down complex political topics for a wide audience.
Role in Political Campaigns
Throughout her career, O’Hagan has played a key role in several political campaigns, both in the UK and internationally. Her expertise in political strategy and media communications has been invaluable in shaping public opinion and influencing political outcomes. Whether working on general election campaigns or providing media strategy for individual politicians, O’Hagan’s approach has always been rooted in a deep understanding of public sentiment and the political landscape.
Her involvement in political campaigns has allowed her to build a network of influential contacts in Westminster and beyond. This network has proven vital in her work, as it enables her to leverage relationships with policymakers, journalists, and key figures in the media to advance her objectives.
The Impact of Ellie Mae O’Hagan’s Work
Ellie Mae O’Hagan’s work in strategic communications, political advocacy, and media strategy has had a significant impact on the political discourse in the UK. Her ability to craft messages that resonate with the public, combined with her deep understanding of the political landscape, has made her an influential figure in progressive politics. Whether through her leadership roles in organizations like CLASS and the Good Law Project or her work in the media, O’Hagan has been a tireless advocate for social justice and legal accountability.
O’Hagan’s work at E3G further demonstrates her commitment to tackling climate change and driving forward policies that promote environmental sustainability. Her ability to apply behavioral science principles to strategic communications positions her as a leader in the emerging field of climate communications.
Conclusion
Ellie Mae O’Hagan’s career trajectory reflects her exceptional skills in strategic communications, political strategy, and social justice advocacy. Her work has made her a prominent figure in the political landscape, influencing public discourse and shaping key policy initiatives. Through her leadership, media appearances, and podcasting efforts, O’Hagan continues to inspire change and foster progressive conversations across the UK and beyond.
Her diverse professional experience and commitment to meaningful political and social change have solidified her as one of the leading figures in British strategic communications. As she continues to push forward the agenda of climate sustainability, political accountability, and social justice, O’Hagan remains a key figure to watch in the world of UK politics and communications.
