Brown names new chief advisor
Monday, 7 January 2008 12:00 AM
Gordon Brown has appointed a prominent city PR boss as his new special advisor, it was confirmed today.
Stephen Carter, chief executive of the Brunswick Group PR company, will become the prime minister's strategy and principal advisor in Downing Street.
The appointment comes as Mr Brown starts the new year attempting to reverse the political damage inflicted by a slew of gaffes and scandals last autumn.
The 43-year-old executive will take over responsibility for co-ordinating policy, research and communications at Number Ten as the prime minister seeks to reverse a floundering poll rating.
Confirming Mr Carter's appointment, Mr Brown said: "I am delighted that Stephen Carter has accepted my invitation to join the Downing Street team as we build on our programme of reform and pursue an ambitious legislative programme.
"As both a chief executive and industry regulator, he has an enviable track record in the private and public sectors, and will bring his considerable qualities and experience to the work of government."
Mr Carter will stand down immediately as chief executive of the Brunswick Group and is thought to have accepted a pay cut in the region of £150,000.
He has previously worked as the chief executive of Ofcom and at one stage was expected to become the next chief executive of ITV.
He said today: "It is an honour to be asked to work with the prime minister and the Downing Street team, and I will do my utmost to make a difference to effective government."
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