Hannah Guerin: From Government Adviser to Corporate Leader
In the fast-paced world of politics, corporate leadership, and strategic advisory, few professionals have carved out as dynamic a career path as Hannah Guerin. Known for her impressive transition from senior government adviser to business leader and strategist, Guerin exemplifies resilience, adaptability, and vision. Today, she is widely recognised not only for her pivotal roles in government but also for her growing influence across the private sector as COO to Richard Harpin at HomeServe EMEA and CEO of The Enterprise Trust. Her journey highlights how transferable skills from politics can transform corporate affairs, strategic partnerships, and executive leadership.
Early Life and Education
Foundation Years
Hannah Guerin received her early education at the Old Palace School of John Whitgift, where she developed the academic grounding and determination that would shape her professional journey. Her formative years instilled a strong sense of discipline and intellectual curiosity, preparing her for the demands of both government and business environments.
University of Bristol
Guerin pursued higher education at the University of Bristol, where she studied Modern Languages, Italian and French. This degree provided her with an international outlook, fluency in multiple languages, and an understanding of different cultures—qualities that later proved invaluable in government diplomacy and international corporate affairs. Her academic background demonstrates her adaptability, analytical skills, and ability to operate effectively in diverse contexts.
Early Career in Government
Internship at BIS
Her professional career began with an internship at the Department for Business, Innovation and Skills (BIS) in 2012. This experience introduced her to the intricacies of government operations, policymaking, and economic strategy.
Roles at the Department for Education
Between 2013 and 2016, Hannah Guerin worked in the Department for Education, progressing from Diary Manager and Assistant Private Secretary to Senior Private Secretary to the Education Secretary. This period developed her skills in organisation, political awareness, and communication at the highest levels of government.
Special Adviser and SpAd Roles
Transition into Senior Government Advisory
Guerin’s move to 10 Downing Street in 2016 marked her entry into national prominence. She became Head of the Prime Minister’s Briefing Team (PMQs), a role requiring acute political intelligence, drafting ability, and direct interaction with the Prime Minister’s office.
Deputy PPS at DEFRA
From 2017 to 2019, she served as Deputy Parliamentary Private Secretary for the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs. Here, she engaged deeply with issues of environment, agriculture, and rural strategy.
Senior Special Adviser in the Home Office
Her most significant political role came when she became Senior Special Adviser (SpAd) and Chief of Staff to the Home Secretary between 2019 and 2022. In this high-pressure role, Hannah Guerin was responsible for policy advice, political strategy, and coordination between departments. It was a defining moment in her career, showcasing her ability to manage crises, build coalitions, and deliver results.
Adviser in Health and BEIS
In 2022, she became Senior Special Adviser to the Deputy Prime Minister and Health Secretary, followed shortly after by her role as Senior Special Adviser to the Secretary of State for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy (BEIS). These positions reflected her versatility, moving seamlessly between health, business, and energy policy.
Transition into the Corporate World
HomeServe EMEA
In June 2023, Hannah Guerin transitioned to the private sector, joining HomeServe EMEA as COO and Chief of Staff to founder Richard Harpin. At HomeServe, she assumed responsibility for corporate affairs, PR, partnerships, and policy, applying her government experience to the corporate landscape.
Her focus on strategy, external relations, and communications has been instrumental in positioning HomeServe for growth in the competitive home services sector. Guerin’s expertise in crisis management and public affairs has also reinforced HomeServe’s reputation as a trusted provider.
Business Leader
In January 2025, she added to her portfolio by becoming Interim Commercial Director & Partnerships at Business Leader, an organisation dedicated to supporting entrepreneurship and business growth. This role highlights her ability to engage with business leaders, scale organisations, and promote sustainable growth strategies.
Enterprise Trust
In parallel, since October 2023, Hannah Guerin has served as CEO of The Enterprise Trust. The trust’s mission focuses on supporting innovation, enterprise, and community development. Guerin’s leadership brings together her policy expertise and corporate experience, ensuring the trust makes a measurable impact in nurturing entrepreneurship and social enterprise.
Skills and Leadership Style
Strategic Policy Development
Guerin’s years as a special adviser (SpAd) in multiple government departments honed her ability to craft and deliver effective policies. She understands both the political and technical dimensions of policymaking, giving her an edge in corporate governance and public affairs.
Corporate and Government Affairs
Her portfolio at HomeServe EMEA demonstrates her strength in bridging the gap between business and government. With skills in lobbying, public relations, and regulatory affairs, she ensures her organisations remain aligned with both commercial and political realities.
Communication and Public Relations
Known for her clarity and directness, Guerin excels in media relations, brand development, and external communications. These attributes make her an effective spokesperson and strategist in both government and corporate contexts.
Hannah Guerin’s Impact
Influence in Government
During her time as a SpAd, Guerin played a crucial role in shaping decisions at the highest levels. Her work supported Ministers and Secretaries of State across health, education, energy, and home affairs, providing them with informed advice and political strategies.
Influence in Business
Her move into the corporate sector demonstrates how political skills can translate into business leadership. At HomeServe EMEA, she has already made a significant mark, driving strategic partnerships and corporate affairs with authority. At Enterprise Trust, her leadership ensures innovative enterprises receive the support they need.
Conclusion
The career of Hannah Guerin is a testament to adaptability, leadership, and influence. From her beginnings as a language student at the University of Bristol to her rise as a Senior Special Adviser in government and her current role as a business leader in HomeServe EMEA, Business Leader, and Enterprise Trust, she embodies the modern professional who moves seamlessly between politics and business.
Her story offers valuable lessons: the importance of transferable skills, the power of strategic communication, and the impact of resilience in navigating complex environments. Whether in government policy or corporate strategy, Hannah Guerin has established herself as a leader of vision, pragmatism, and effectiveness.
