LONDON — Brunswick partner and head of public affairs Jon McLeod has left the firm for his first in-house role, joining the new Business Banking Resolution Service as director of communications.

The non-profit organisation has been set up to resolve disputes between small and medium-sized businesses and banks. It is currently in a pilot phase ahead of its full launch later this year.

Before joining Brunswick in June 2018, McLeod was chairman of Weber Shandwick in its London and Manchester offices; he had worked at the agency for 21 years. McLeod has extensive experience of working with SMEs, including as a member of the board of the East Midlands Development Agency.

The Business Banking Resolution Service is chaired by dispute resolution expert Lewis Shand Smith, who said: “We are delighted to welcome Jon to the team this week. I am looking forward to working with him at a crucial moment for the BBRS as we work towards the launch of the full scheme later this year. Covid-19 means that these are unprecedented and uncertain times for companies across the country. The BBRS is being designed to be an essential part of the infrastructure available to support eligible businesses and we will be ready to play our part in the UK’s recovery.”

McLeod added: "It has never been more important for British businesses to get fair treatment from their banks. Doing so will, in turn, safeguard the reputation of the sector. The BBRS will play a vital role in making sure this happens. It is a tremendous privilege to be asked to play a part in delivering this major change for the SMEs who are such a critical part of our economy."