Public affairs and communications management

"The news that the Department of Health is seeking private investment in NHS Professionals is the beginning of the beginning for public service outsourcing on a massive scale.

Ministers and officials across departments, but especially the Cabinet Office Efficiency and Reform Group (ERG) are busy looking for opportunities to move government companies and other public bodies into the private sector. They are also searching across health, education, skills, welfare and the criminal justice to see what can be provided more effectively by the private sector.

This is a big opportunity for private companies and investors who can spot the opportunities in government markets, develop offers that fit with ministerial priorities, and start a dialogue with the right officials through government relations. The skill lies in using research to analyse the opportunity and position the company or investor in the right way, and public affairs to support strategic marketing and bidding efforts."