Samantha Smith Email and Phone Number

Lead the REA's public affairs and policy work on all things Biomass Power and Bioenergy Carbon Capture and Storage (BECCS). Manage the REA's Biomass member forum, Biomass UK. Create messaging, develop policy, and represent a sector that's critical for reaching Net Zero.

Developed and delivered public affairs strategies, managed the campaigns team and contributed to wider business planning. Worked with the Campaigns Director to set the strategic direction for the team and was responsible for overseeing all policy areas, leading on issues like green, tax policy, and our work in the devolved nations. I managed a group of around 40 REC members known as the Employment Policy Committee (EPC) which met quarterly to discuss key legal, policy, and regulatory issues. Represented the REC by taking part in panel events and webinars. Set up and chaired the REC’s internal Environment Committee. Media trained, First Aider, Mental Health First Aider.

Worked with senior team to create and execute political engagement strategies for a range of clients in the pensions, advertising, charity and legal sectors. Developed crisis, reputation, and strategic communication strategies. Drafted press releases, op-eds and background briefing notes for journalists. A trusted advisor providing recommendations to clients and regularly presenting to Executive teams and Boards. Monitored industry and political developments and provided recommendations to clients. Responsible for firm recruitment, training and line management of interns, analysts, and senior analysts.

Diary and staff management, assisting with the running of All Party Parliamentary Groups (APPGs), researching and preparing speeches and briefings, responding to policy/campaign letters. Responsible for preparing weekly articles and drafting press releases for local media. Supported the Member in his role as PPS to the Home Secretary and subsequently in his role as Parliamentary Under Secretary of State for Justice.

Researched and prepared speeches and briefings. Developed and circulated monthly 'newsletter' and assisted with the running of the Member's website. Assisted with casework and provided tours of Parliament. Gained excellent insight into the inner workings of the Whips Office.

Provided public affairs support to energy clients, with a focus on suppliers. This included daily monitoring, stakeholder mapping and engagement, meeting KPI's and achieving results, particularly in relation to energy tariffs and vulnerable customers.

Researched and prepared speeches, briefings and questions. Developed and circulated press releases. Developed and ran the group Instagram page. Assisted one Member with the development and running of an All Party Parliamentary Group (APPG). General whips office admin and providing tours of Parliament.

Researched and provided speeches, briefing and questions. Responsible for press releases. Helped on a wide range of constituency casework and built up excellent professional relationships with many local businesses and constituents.