LONDON — Brunswick Group has hired former Shell senior communications executive Alex Burnett as a partner in its business and society practice, with a particular focus on climate.

Burnett joins after 13 years at Shell, where he designed and oversaw the implementation of 'Powering Progress', the energy company’s first purpose-led company strategy and communications plan, designed to accelerate the transition of the business to net-zero.

He held various other senior communications roles at Shell, including leading the corporate communications and reputation team and advising the executive committee on strategy, engagement and communications in response to ESG themes.

Previously, Burnett was senior advisor, communications and public affairs at Toyota Europe, where he delivered communications and public affairs campaigns to position the car manufacturer as an environmental leader in the automotive sector. Before that, he worked at communications and public affairs agency Luther Pendragon, after starting his career as a parliamentary researcher to former UK Prime Minister, David Cameron.

Brunswick CEO Neal Wolin, said: “I am delighted that Alex is joining our growing business and society team. Climate change is a priority issue for boards and executive teams globally. Alex joins our team of experts advising companies worldwide on these issues. His deep understanding of the opportunities and challenges facing organisations in the transition to net-zero will be extremely valuable to our clients.”

Burnett, who is also a director of The One Foundation, supporting sustainable water and sanitation services in some of the world’s poorest communities, added: “More than ever, companies across all sectors are expected to demonstrate social value alongside financial value. Climate change has risen to the top of the global agenda and I am thrilled to join a firm that advises so many organisations on these important issues. Brunswick houses exceptional expertise on climate and wider societal issues and I look forward to joining the team and bringing my experience to bear for clients.”