MHP Group has hired former journalist and investment banker Simon Evans as a Senior Director. Evans will work alongside MHP’s Capital Markets and Brand & Reputation teams to lead the business’ corporate strategy communications work.

Evans joins from Portland Communications, where he led the firm’s Financial Communications team. Before that, he was a Director at Kekst CNC. His arrival follows recent hires including Managing Director James McFarlane from H/Advisors Maitland and Director Peter Lineen from Newmarket Strategy.

Commenting on Evans’ appointment, Head of Brand & Reputation Rachel Bower said:

“Simon shares our view of the evolving communications landscape, which demands that businesses engage with a wider range of audiences across a breadth of complex of issues, whilst maintaining a clear and compelling corporate narrative. He will be a fantastic addition to the team.”

Head of Capital Markets, Oliver Hughes, added:

“Boardrooms are confronted by the need to demonstrate the highest standards of responsible business practice, while navigating growing investor and stakeholder activism. Simon’s breadth of experience means he is perfectly placed to advise our clients on these challenges.”

Commenting on his decision to join MHP, Simon Evans explained:

“Managing our clients’ reputations, helping them to achieve their objectives, is tougher and more complex today than it has ever been. Corporate Affairs leaders rightly want answers that run across stakeholder groups and I believe that MHP Group is well-placed to deliver such responses. I can’t wait to start working with the great teams operating across the business in 2023.”