Allan Ross

Senior corporate affairs and communications leader with extensive experience protecting and enhancing the reputation of some of the UK's most recognised brands, including Marks & Spencer, Sainsbury's, 10 Downing Street and the Home Office. A strategic adviser to FTSE 100 executives, Cabinet Ministers and senior government leaders, with a proven track record of leading communications through transformation, political change and major crises. Experienced in modernising communications functions, integrating digital and media strategies, building high-performing teams and delivering effective stakeholder engagement across media, government, investors and communities.

Head of Press Office - Marks & Spencer Plc

(2020-07 - 2026-07)

• Modernised communications by integrating media relations, digital content and multi-channel engagement to support store rotation and transformation.
• Established a high-performing communications network that significantly increased M&S visibility across communities throughout the UK.
• Led media relations during major national events including Covid-19, Brexit-related disruption and the company's high-profile cyber incident.
• Measured success using data analytics and AI tools to analyse call volumes, coverage and sentiment as well as mapping media contacts.
• Partnered with senior executives to communicate M&S's business transformation to customers, investors, politicians and national media.
• Built and developed a high-performing press office recognised for its responsiveness, strategic judgement and delivery.

Head of Media Relations - Sainsbury's Plc

(2019-02 - 2020-04)

• Managed high-profile operational, supply chain and corporate reputation issues.
• Supported financial communications, corporate announcements and consumer campaigns.
• Handled communications surrounding the proposed Asda M&A.
• Supported the delivery of an acclaimed ITV documentary, helping strengthen public understanding of the brand.

Deputy Director of Communication - Department for International Trade

(2018-03 - 2019-02)

• Led a team of 30 across media relations and digital communications during a period of significant organisational growth and Brexit-related change.
• Improved organisational capability through restructuring and leadership development.
• Embedded communications more effectively within policy and operational teams.
• Increased proactive communications supporting UK trade, investment and international partnerships.
• Led external communications relating to post-Brexit trading arrangements.

Head of Communications (Wales) - UK Government

(2014-10 - 2018-03)

• Led communications to increase the UK Government's impact in Wales.
• Restructured to build a high-performing team and developed an effective communications strategy.
• Principal communications adviser to new Secretary of State during a time of political and constitutional uncertainty.
• Delivered strong internal communications to remove cultural barriers within the organisation.

Chief Press Officer - Prime Minister's Office, 10 Downing Street

(2011-07 - 2014-09)

• Spokesperson for the Prime Minister and led a team that supported announcements, events and visits.
• Provided leadership to Whitehall departments, built a strong network of media contacts, used political nous to navigate the coalition and travelled frequently with the PM, advising him on communications handling.
• Led a multi-discipline cross-government communications team on the Scottish referendum – a complex political campaign where I demonstrated leadership on public affairs, digital communications, marketing, PR and media relations.

Postgraduate Certificate - Leadership - Oxford Brookes University

MA (honours) - Politics - University of Edinburgh