Key facts
- James Purnell is expected to become Andy Burnham's chief of staff.
- Purnell has resigned as CEO of Flint Global, a firm specializing in policy and reputational issues.
- Flint Global's clients include Thames Water and Heathrow Reimagined, a campaign for Heathrow expansion.
- Thames Water is facing potential nationalisation due to objections to its rescue proposal.
- Heathrow expansion is a key policy measure for the current government.
- Purnell will have no ongoing financial interest in Flint Global.
James Purnell, widely expected to become Andy Burnham's chief of staff, is stepping down from his role as CEO of the lobbying firm Flint Global. The firm has represented clients such as Thames Water and Heathrow Reimagined, a campaign advocating for changes to Heathrow Airport's regulatory model and a third runway expansion.
Purnell announced his departure to staff on Wednesday morning, stating he was "likely to be leaving shortly." Flint Global, which does not publicly disclose its client list, has advised companies on complex policy and reputational matters, often engaging with lawmakers and regulators.
Both Thames Water and the Heathrow expansion project are awaiting significant decisions from the central government. Thames Water is currently in a precarious financial position, with the government objecting to a £10 billion rescue plan proposed by its bondholders, raising the possibility of nationalisation. Purnell has previously expressed support for public ownership of water companies.
In parallel, the expansion of Heathrow Airport is a key policy objective for the current government. Flint Global has worked with Surinder Arora, the driving force behind Heathrow Reimagined and a bidder for the third runway project. Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander recently indicated support for Arora's phased approach to expansion.
Purnell, a former minister under Tony Blair, will have no ongoing financial ties to Flint Global. Ed Richards and Simon Fraser, co-founders of the firm, will assume interim leadership roles.