WHAT DO OUR CLIENTS THINK OF US?
A FEW KIND WORDS ...
Stuart Worden, Principal, The BRIT School
“Martin brought exactly the insight, energy and strategic clarity we needed to build The BRIT School’s public affairs capacity from the ground up. He helped us craft a compelling internal case for support, sharpen our narrative, and align our messaging with key Government priorities - all while making sure our unique contribution to performing arts training remained front and centre.
His deep knowledge of the cultural sector, combined with an outstanding network across Westminster and Whitehall, gave us access to senior policymakers we wouldn’t otherwise have reached. Just as importantly, he worked with us in a way that built confidence and left a lasting legacy: we now have the tools, skills and structures in place to continue advocating effectively for ourselves.
Martin is not only strategic and insightful - he’s also an absolute pleasure to work with: supportive, collaborative, and great fun. Thanks to his support, we now have real public affairs ‘muscle’ and a clear voice in the national conversation.
Sharon Watson MBE DL, CEO and Principal, Northern School of Contemporary Dance
“I had the distinct privilege of working alongside Martin on a particularly pressing project. I quickly came to appreciate his intellectual acuity paired with thoughtful deliberation in every decision. Rather than rushing to conclusions, he takes the time to fully understand complex situations from multiple perspectives, consistently arriving at solutions that are both innovative and practical. His considered approach has been invaluable in navigating the nuanced challenges that define our work.
Perhaps most impressive is Martin’s distinguished cultural competency, which enables him to navigate cultural nuances and engage authentically with stakeholders from diverse backgrounds with respect and insight.
Beyond his professional capabilities, Martin brings an infectious warmth and humour. His ability to find levity in challenging situations while maintaining complete professionalism has helped me navigate particularly stressful periods.
What sets Martin apart is his extensive network of meaningful professional relationships, built over years of genuine engagement and mutual respect. These connections aren't just names in a contact list, they represent trusted partnerships and relationships.
The work we have done together inspires and has built confidence. This trust is well-earned and his reputation precedes him in the best possible way."
Rufus Norris, Artistic Director and CEO of the National Theatre
“In the 11 years Martin worked at the National Theatre he increased partnership revenue by 400%. This included the theatre’s biggest ever single sponsorship with American Express. His role was expanded to include Corporate Affairs, a highlight of which was persuading HM Treasury to help us take War Horse to China. Promoted to the role of Director of Communications he was an active member of the theatre’s senior management team. Leaving to one side his successful reinvigoration of the National Theatre’s internal and external communications, Martin was a founding member of the theatre’s Diversity Working Group. Martin was a central and highly valued member of the National Theatre management team.”
Imran Shafi, formerly Private secretary to the Prime Minister
“It was great working with Martin to organise a unique chance for students from disadvantaged backgrounds to come to 10 Downing Street, be inspired by a workshop with leading actors, and watch a performance in the garden given by 2nd year RADA students. Martin had the vision to come up with the idea, the organisation to see it through, and it was a huge pleasure to work with him on this.”
Niamh Dowling, Principal of RADA
Helen Slater, Vice Principal and Director of Communications
“Martin has worked with RADA on public affairs and development for four years with huge impact. He shaped key messages for RADA and supported us in building our network, including securing visits (among others) from two consecutive University Ministers- the first of such visits for some years. Martin has elevated our profile and reputation with policy makers, arranging a performance of 'As You Like It' at Number 10 Downing Street, as well as talks by prominent RADA graduates for civil servants at DCMS, and launching a thought leadership event series connecting RADA to policymakers, industry and key influencers in the creative sector.
Martin also led our successful application for specialist funding from the Office for Students, refocused our Development Department, re-energized our Development Board, and launched 'Stage Critical,' a £3.2 million fundraising campaign to help RADA recover from the financial strain of Covid.
Martin is professional, committed, creative and effective, and has a truly positive energy. Working with him is a pleasure.”
Jan Gooding, former Global Brand Director, Aviva
“Every now and again in business you meet someone who is irresistible, and Martin is one of those people. He is professional, personable, creative and makes you feel that he is your partner in any endeavour. Sponsoring NT Live, with Martin leading the NT team, was one of the highlights of my time as Global Brand Director at Aviva. It was a central part of our award-winning You Are The Big Picture campaign and an important part of its success. Whether wrapping the NT’s iconic flytower, working with Danny Boyle to launch Aviva’s Street to School campaign, or projecting the faces of members of the public onto the side of the NT, everything was possible and every unexpected problem solved. The whole experience was a joy.”
Holly Kendrick, Executive Director, Wilton’s Music Hall
“Wilton’s is the oldest surviving grand music hall in the world and it is a magical place. One of our challenges is communicating who we are and what we do to our many different stakeholder groups, including audiences, artists and funders.
As part of the development of a new business strategy, Martin worked with us to create new vision, mission and values statements, along with a new set of key messages. Over six months he facilitated workshops for Wilton’s leadership and used his experience as Director of Communications at the National Theatre to help us shape how we think about ourselves and how we present ourselves to the world.
Martin was brilliant to work with - collaborative, expert and professional, whilst always making sure we had the space to develop our own thinking.
Most importantly, the project was successful. The key messages are now used in training all of our staff, and we use the new strapline “For everyone with a curious imagination” throughout our marketing.”
