MHP Group

MHP Group describes its approach as being “integrated communications for the Networked Age”, helping brands navigate an increasingly connected, polarised, and activist landscape. In its third year as part of Next15, MHP continued to lead the way in the application of behavioural science and social analytics to solve big communications challenges. With 220 consultants, the group blends strategic communications, creative storytelling, and sector expertise to engage audiences across consumer, corporate, investor, and policymaker communities, with strengths in areas such as health policy, fintech, AIM advisory, shareholder activism and renewables.

Led by CEO Alex Bigg and deputy CEO Nick Barron, the group is made up of three brands that come together seamlessly: MHP supports clients with complex communications challenges to change minds, behaviours and reputations, creative consumer shop Mischief, and Accord, which helps leaders navigate divisive situations and polarisation. 

The agency’s business performance over the past year has been strong, with total revenue reaching £40 million—reflecting 12% growth, including 4% organic revenue expansion. MHP works with 250 clients, including more than 50 FTSE 100 and Fortune 500 companies, with 75% of its clients engaging multiple practice areas. Client retention stands at an impressive 95%, supported by a client service quality score in the industry’s upper quartile.

Last year the agency made its first acquisitions, buying creative agency La Plage to expand its owned and social content offering and boutique tech consultancy Tuva to deepen its expertise in deeptech. Its in-house innovations includes MHPulse, a private AI model trained on proprietary agency data to enhance efficiency, and Trust Analytics, a collaboration with Dr. Robert Cialdini’s Influence At Work to develop new methodologies for measuring and strengthening brand trust.

The agency’s recent client work showcases its breadth and impact. It played a key role in redefining the Harry Potter brand for Pottermore’s 25th anniversary, delivering digital assets across 26 markets. For AI innovator Wayve, it managed communications around a major funding round that made the company Europe’s most valuable AI firm. In financial services, it supported Hammerson’s £1.5 billion asset disposal. Other notable projects include media and stakeholder relations for Breakthrough Energy’s cleantech summit, a cross-industry coalition to address the UK’s net-zero skills gap, and Experian’s “Cost of Loving” podcast to reframe conversations around personal finance. Mischief also delivered high-impact, culture-driven creative campaigns for brands such as Lego, Just Eat, and Ocado.

Last year, MHP welcomed high-profile recruits, including former Mirror Group editor Alison Phillips as a senior media advisor and former UK government deputy communications chief Lisa Hunter as head of strategic communications. With a 60:40 gender balance and 17% of employees from minority ethnic backgrounds, the agency continues to evolve its culture and talent pipeline. — MPS