Former minister Trudy Harrison appointed as senior advisor at Fusion Media

Tuesday, 5 November 2024 Jake Holmes 0 Comments advisor, business, cycling, government, Minister, MP, Parliament, PR, public policy, Public Relations

Public affairs agency Fusion Media has appointed former government minister Trudy Harrison as a senior advisor amidst the company wider expansion of its public affairs department.

Trudy Harrison, previously the member of parliament for Copeland, was minister for Transport and Environment (defra) during her tenure. She brings her experiences from public life to add to Fusion Medias expertise.

Trudy Harrison, senior advisor, said: “Getting more people active is a mission that I’m really passionate about and I was fortunate enough to be able to progress this in Government. After standing down at the last election, working with Fusion to help get more people cycling, walking and wheeling is a brilliant opportunity to continue to make a difference.”

She has been considered for appointment to the parliamentary advisory committee as a former minister. She has gained respect across the political spectrum, serving as the former prime ministers parliamentary private secretary. This coincided with Gear Change’s development under the Johnson government.

Harrison was the minister responsible for active travel at the time of Active Travel England’s creation. Fusion’s public affairs has recently partnered with Bikeability Trust on a retainer basis. These two new developments strengthens Fusions market position.

Jack Mayorcas, public affairs lead at Fusion Media: “This is an exciting time for Fusion Media as we deepen our expertise and broaden our reach in the public affairs landscape. With a new Government in place and growing momentum around active travel, we are well-positioned to help shape the future of transport policy, and make cycling, walking and wheeling more accessible for everyone.’’

The all-party parliamentary group (APPG) for cycling and walking was supported by both Lime and Forest, set the groundworks for a former minister to make this transition. Speakers included Dame Sarah Storey, Ed Clancy OBE, Chris Boardman OBE, Catherine Woodhead, Rezina Chowdury and the Minister for Active Travel, Simon Lightwood MP.

Former parliamentary staffer Mathew Porter has also joined Fusion as a public affairs account executive. His experience both in the cycling and legislative process will strengthen the agencies ability to communicate with stakeholders.