Linstock Communications has recruited James Hulme from the public policy think tank to head its newly created 'local government futures' unit.
Hulme, who has headed the think tank's branding, comms and external relations since 2006, is joining Linstock to set up the new unit.
The Local Government futures team will advise clients on developing relationships with local authorities and their partners and how to interpret and work with the Government's localism agenda.
Hulme said: 'The localism agenda is dominating politics in Westminster and beyond, and huge changes are imminent in areas such as housing, planning, economic development and service delivery.'
He added: 'Organisations working with the public sector need to get to grips with these fundamental reforms.
'I look forward to using my experience and expertise within the local government world to support Linstock's clients.'
Previously, Hulme was parliamentary and government relations manager at Citizens Advice.
