Harrington (pictured) joined APCO as a senior counsellor in the agency's International Advisory Committee after standing down as Conservative MP for Watford at the 2019 general election.
As a business minister between 2017 and 2019, he was responsible for the UK’s industrial strategy, which included the automotive, life sciences, creative industries, chemical, hospitality and professional service sectors.
Harrington also previously served on the International Development Select Committee and was Prime Minister David Cameron’s apprenticeship adviser. Harrington has also held various executive positions in business for more than 30 years, including in real estate, hotel, leisure and wealth management.
Roi Feder, interim managing director of APCO Worldwide in the UK, said: “Richard’s appointment as non-executive chairman comes at a critical time for the UK as it re-establishes global trading relationships and prepares to host COP26 and the G7 gathering. His in-depth knowledge of industry and government make him an extremely valuable resource for our clients as they navigate post-Brexit Britain, and I look forward to continuing to work with him.
"At a time of global change the London office has been growing its strategic capabilities in healthcare, tech and sustainability, and strengthening its geopolitical practice. Richard will continue to add to that growth and his extensive experience brings unique commercial insight and makes him a natural fit for APCO’s global corporate advisory and UK advocacy offer.”
APCO underwent a number of changes in its senior teams globally in 2020, including the departure of London MD Steve Earl. The agency also reorganised its US operations and announced changes to its leadership team in the UAE and Saudi Arabia.
