Specialist Research Unit

From Powerbase
Jump to navigation Jump to search

British lobbying, market research and strategy consultancy founded in 1974

Specialist Research Unit
Trade name SRU
Type Private
Founded 1974
Founder(s) Dennis Stevenson
Peter Wallis (also known as Peter York)
Defunct
Headquarters London, United Kingdom
Industry Lobbying; Management consulting; Market research
Services Strategic advice, market research, public diplomacy
Parent
Subsidiaries

Specialist Research Unit (SRU) was a market research based consultancy formed by Dennis Stevenson and Peter Wallis (also known as Peter York) in 1974[1][2].

The BBC lists Peter Mandelson as having been a consultant to SRU between 1990 and 1992. [3]. In 1990 a Sunday Times report on Mandelson's move to SRU described the company as "problem-solver for companies including ICI, Unilever, Marks & Spencer, BAT, Clarks Shoes, Allied Dunbar, Thorn EMI, WH Smith and Ladbroke." In his unauthorised biography of Mandelson, Paul Routledge investigated how 'Mandy' managed to pay for his very expensive property in Notting Hill. According to Routledge:

'His work for SRU, the consultancy started by style guru Peter York, in the early nineties brought him about the same salary [approx £28,000] - on his own admission.'[4]

In a profile on Stevenson in the Evening Standard Chris Blackhurst wrote that "while other consultancies stuck with traditional formats, SRU dared to be different. It built an enviable client list of the biggest companies and was called in to advise on the largest projects, but always remaining in the shadows, often answering only to the chairman personally."[5]. "It was as if the head of a company wanted an alternative view but was too scared to seek one publicly. SRU didn't go in for numbers and textbook theories; they specialised in thinking, researching customers' perceptions and detailing how the company fitted with a wider society. Chairmen loved them for it," he wrote. "They were adept at tying together different strands, from business, the City, charities, the public sector and government."[5]. In September 2000 the PR company Brunswick bought SRU for an undisclosed sum. According to PR Week Wallis said that "for Brunswick, the deal provides an instant in-house research capability. For SRU, we are now part of a bigger international organisation with offices worldwide."[6][7]. In 2003 Peter York bought out SRU back from the Brunswick Group[8].

The Specialist Research Unit (SRU) emerged as a pivotal player in the British consultancy landscape, specialising in strategic market research and advisory services that bridged corporate strategy with broader societal and political contexts[5]. Founded amid the economic turbulence of the 1970s, SRU distinguished itself by offering unconventional insights to blue-chip clients, often operating discreetly at the highest levels of corporate governance[9]. Over its operational span, the firm navigated mergers, buyouts, and key personnel transitions, while forging deep ties with political figures and think tanks[10]. Its activities extended beyond traditional market research into areas like public diplomacy and policy influence, reflecting the interconnected networks of its founders[11]. Despite its low public profile, SRU's involvement in high-stakes advisory roles and its associations with influential networks have sparked discussions on the intersections of business, politics, and lobbying in the UK[10].

History

The origins of SRU trace back to the early 1970s, a period marked by economic instability in Britain, including the oil crisis and industrial unrest[5]. Dennis Stevenson and Peter Wallis (professionally known as Peter York) identified a niche for a consultancy that could provide innovative, perception-based research rather than conventional data-driven analyses[10]. Established in 1974, SRU quickly built a reputation for delivering "alternative views" to corporate leaders wary of public scrutiny[5][12].

In its formative years, SRU focused on understanding consumer perceptions and societal fits for major corporations[5]. By the 1980s, the firm had expanded into a group of nine specialist consultancies under the SRU umbrella, covering diverse areas from media strategy to public affairs[13][14]. This growth coincided with the Thatcher era's emphasis on privatisation and market liberalisation, positioning SRU as a key advisor in navigating these shifts[10][15].

In the 1980s, under Peter York's direction, SRU expanded significantly to form the SRU Group, an umbrella structure comprising nine specialist business consultancies that operated alongside or as subsidiaries of the core SRU entity[16]. Specific names and precise formation dates for most of the nine remain sparsely documented in public records, reflecting SRU's discreet operational style, though the group structure enabled specialised services in areas such as media strategy, public affairs, and cultural analysis[17]. Hydra Associates, sharing offices with SRU, represented one prominent affiliate focused on media and entertainment strategy for clients including BT and BBC (founded 1987, chaired by Peter York 1987–1999, acquired by Hawkpoint Partners 2001)[18]. Many of these specialist units likely ceased independent function or were absorbed following the 2000 acquisition by Brunswick Group and the subsequent 2003 buyback by Peter York, with limited evidence of ongoing separate operations post-reacquisition[19][20]. The group's emphasis on qualitative, perception-driven consultancy across diverse sectors underscored SRU's innovative approach during its peak expansion phase in the 1980s.


The 1990s saw SRU's involvement with political figures, notably Peter Mandelson's consultancy role from 1990 to 1992, which highlighted the firm's blending of business and politics[21][22]. Mandelson's tenure at SRU provided him with financial stability during his transition to parliamentary politics, underscoring the firm's role as a bridge between corporate and governmental spheres[22][23].

A significant milestone occurred in September 2000 when Brunswick Group acquired SRU, integrating its research capabilities into a global PR network[24][25]. This acquisition aimed to enhance Brunswick's in-house research, while offering SRU international reach[26]. However, by 2003, Peter York repurchased SRU from Brunswick, restoring its independence amid shifting market dynamics[27][26].

Post-2003, SRU continued operations under York's leadership, maintaining its discreet advisory style[10]. The firm's history reflects broader trends in UK consultancy, from boutique specialisation to global integration and back to autonomy[28]. While exact details of its later activities remain opaque due to its private nature, SRU's legacy lies in its influence on strategic thinking at the nexus of business and policy[5][10].

SRU's evolution also mirrored the founders' personal trajectories. Stevenson's ascent in business and politics, including chairmanships at Pearson and HBOS, amplified SRU's networks[29][30]. York's dual identity as a cultural commentator and consultant added a unique flavour, blending style analysis with corporate strategy[31][32].

By the mid-2000s, SRU had contributed to initiatives like the re-branding of Britain, through associations with Hydra Associates and political advisors[10][33]. Its history encapsulates the rise of knowledge-based consultancies in post-war Britain, adapting to economic, political, and technological changes while preserving a veil of secrecy[5][10].

Activities

SRU's core activities revolved around market research and strategic consultancy, emphasising qualitative insights into consumer perceptions and societal integration[5]. Unlike traditional firms relying on quantitative data, SRU specialised in "thinking" – synthesising business strands with public sector and governmental elements[5][34].

Key services included advising on major projects for clients like ICI, Unilever, and Marks & Spencer, often reporting directly to chairmen[35][22]. SRU's approach involved researching how companies aligned with wider society, providing alternative perspectives on challenges[5][10].

In the 1980s, SRU expanded into public diplomacy, with Peter York collaborating with the Foreign Office and British Council on projecting the UK's image abroad[36][37]. This extended SRU's remit beyond corporate advice to influencing international perceptions[36][38]. Specific activities undertaken included conducting surveys and reports on pressure groups, environmental movements, and youth organisations, often commissioned by government bodies such as the Department of the Environment (DoE), which informed policy on social control and subversion[36]. York's efforts aligned with broader public diplomacy strategies, focusing on cultural relations to counter anti-British propaganda and enhance the UK's soft power in regions like the Middle East and Latin America[39][36]. Parts of the FCO involved included remnants of the Information Research Department (IRD), which, despite its dissolution in 1977, influenced ongoing anti-subversion and propaganda efforts through networks of former diplomats and consultants[36][40]. Key FCO diplomats associated with these activities included Norman Reddaway, a former IRD head who shaped public diplomacy tactics, and Geoffrey Tucker, an ex-FCO publicity officer linked to anti-left campaigns[36]. Other notable figures were Sir Michael Palliser, former head of the FCO and involved in the British American Project (BAP) from 1983, and Lord Carrington, who chaired BAP and emphasized cultural diplomacy[36].

SRU also engaged in policy-related work, advising Labour Party on industrial policy in the 1990s and contributing to think tanks like Demos[41][10]. Its activities in the Mezzanine network facilitated idea exchange among business, politics, and charities[10][42].

Post-buyback in 2003, SRU continued discreet operations, potentially involving media strategy via Hydra Associates[43][10]. Overall, SRU's activities blurred lines between consultancy, lobbying, and public affairs, leveraging founders' networks for multifaceted influence[5][10].

SRU's involvement in high-profile re-branding efforts, such as "Cool Britannia", highlighted its role in cultural and national identity projects[10][44]. Through York's expertise, SRU analysed social trends, applying them to corporate strategies[45][10]. This holistic approach set SRU apart, enabling clients to anticipate societal shifts[5][46].

In education and training, SRU influenced strategic research methodologies, with York speaking on futures and innovation[47][48]. Its activities also encompassed crisis management and perception audits, aiding companies in navigating public opinion[5][10].

Despite its privacy, SRU's impact is evident in the success of clients and the careers of associates like Mandelson, who credited SRU with professional development[22][49].

Controversies

SRU's discreet operations and political ties have fuelled controversies, particularly regarding transparency in lobbying and influence peddling[50]. Critics argue SRU exemplified the "revolving door" between business and politics, with Stevenson's roles in government appointments and think tanks raising questions on conflicts of interest[51][10].

Mandelson's 1990-1992 consultancy sparked scrutiny over how political figures monetised expertise, especially given SRU's corporate clients and Mandelson's subsequent roles[52][22]. Routledge's biography questioned funding sources for Mandelson's lifestyle, implying SRU's salary was pivotal[22][53].

SRU's public diplomacy work, advised to the Foreign Office, drew criticism for blending state interests with private consultancy, potentially undermining public accountability[10][54]. Associations with IRD successors raised ethical concerns on propaganda[10][55]. Controversies surrounding this collaboration centered on the intersection of private consultancy with state surveillance, as SRU's reports on voluntary groups and pop festivals were used in monitoring left-wing and minority communities by MI5 and Special Branch, raising ethical concerns about covert influence and conflicts of interest in public-private partnerships[36][56]. Critics argued that such activities blurred lines between legitimate public diplomacy and domestic intelligence operations, echoing broader debates on the legacy of IRD's propaganda methods in the post-Cold War era[57][36].

The 2000 Brunswick acquisition and 2003 buyback prompted speculation on strategic motives, with some viewing it as asset shuffling amid PR scandals[26][58].

Stevenson's HBOS chairmanship during the 2008 crisis indirectly tainted SRU, given his networks[59][60]. Critics highlighted SRU's secrecy as enabling unchecked influence[10][61].

Despite no direct legal controversies, SRU's model exemplifies debates on corporate-political nexus in UK governance[10][62].

Key People

Dennis Stevenson

Henry Dennistoun "Dennis" Stevenson, Baron Stevenson of Coddenham, CBE, DL (born 19 July 1945), is a prominent British businessman and political networker[63]. Co-founder of SRU in 1974, Stevenson shaped its strategic direction, leveraging his expertise in management consulting[64].

Stevenson's career spans chairmanships at Pearson (publishers of Financial Times and Economist), HBOS, and the House of Lords Appointments Commission[65]. His networks include Demos, Social Market Foundation, and Diebold Institute, focusing on privatisation and policy[10].

Politically, Stevenson advised Labour Party on industrial policy and chaired elite groups like the Mezzanine[10]. His marriage to a lady-in-waiting connected him to aristocracy[10]. Stevenson's role in SRU exemplified his "fixer" status, tying business to government[5][66].

Peter Wallis (Peter York)

Peter Wallis, known professionally as Peter York (born 1944), is a British management consultant, author, and broadcaster[67]. Co-founder of SRU, York brought cultural insight to corporate strategy, co-authoring The Official Sloane Ranger Handbook[68].

York's dual career as style guru and consultant defined SRU's innovative approach[69]. He developed the SRU Group into nine consultancies in the 1980s, focusing on media and public diplomacy[70].

Networks include the British Council, Foreign Office, and Hydra Associates, where he chaired from 1987-1999[71]. York's work on re-branding Britain highlighted his influence in cultural policy[72][73].

Alan Parker

Sir Alan Parker, CVO (born 3 May 1956), is a British businessman and public relations executive[74]. Founder and chairman of Brunswick Group, which he established in 1987 from his parents' kitchen table with assistance from his father, former British Rail chairman Sir Peter Parker[75][76].

Parker acquired SRU in 2000, integrating its research capabilities into Brunswick's operations before the 2003 buyback[26]. Known as the "godfather of modern financial public relations," he built Brunswick into a global firm with offices in multiple countries, advising on corporate strategy, crises, and communications[77][78].

His career includes prior experience as an oil rig worker and rock band manager[79]. Parker served as chairman of Save the Children UK from 2008, resigning in 2018 amid a Charities Commission inquiry into handling of a sexual harassment scandal[80]. Knighted for services to business and charity, Parker's networks span chief executives, politicians, and media figures[81][82].

James Purnell

James Purnell (born 2 March 1970) is a British academic administrator and former politician[83]. He worked at Hydra Associates, a media strategy consultancy sharing offices with SRU, from 1992 to 1994[84].

Purnell later served as a research fellow on IPPR's media project and as a strategy consultant in media and telecommunications at Hydra Associates before entering politics[85]. A former Labour MP and Blairite figure, he held ministerial roles including Secretary of State for Work and Pensions and Culture, Media and Sport[86].

Since 2021, Purnell has been President and Vice-Chancellor of University of the Arts London[87]. His early career at Hydra Associates linked him to SRU's media and strategy networks[88][89].

John Cummins

John Cummins is a British media executive and consultant[90]. Founder of Hydra Associates in 1987, a strategic advisory firm for media and entertainment companies that shared offices with SRU[91].

Cummins led Hydra Associates until its acquisition by Hawkpoint Partners in 2001, becoming vice-chairman of Hawkpoint and head of its media sector business[92]. An award-winning TV executive, he pioneered formats and launched careers in British television[93].

Cummins later served as senior advisor at Gaming Technologies and executive leader in business scaling[94]. His work at Hydra Associates connected media strategy with SRU's broader consultancy ecosystem[95][96].

Role of Peter Mandelson

Peter Mandelson, Baron Mandelson (born 21 October 1953), served as SRU consultant from 1990 to 1992, a period bridging his communications directorship for Labour and parliamentary career[97][22].

At SRU, Mandelson advised on corporate problems, earning approximately £28,000 annually, aiding his Notting Hill property purchase[98][22]. This role provided business acumen, influencing his later positions as Trade Secretary and EU Commissioner[22][99].

Mandelson's SRU tenure underscored the firm's political connections, facilitating his Hartlepool MP election in 1992[22][100].

Business, Political, and Lobbying Networks and Connections

SRU's networks were extensive, rooted in founders' ties[10]. Stevenson's involvements included Pearson, Manpower Inc., and Korda & Co., linking to bio-tech and media[10][101]. Politically, he chaired Lords Appointments and advised Demos[102][10].

York's connections spanned British Council and FO for public diplomacy, plus Hydra Associates with Labour figures like James Purnell[103][104].

Lobbying ties included Brunswick (Alan Parker, Demos director) and Lexington Communications, where Stevenson held shares[105][26]. SRU's Mezzanine facilitated elite interactions, blending business with policy[10][106].

Timeline

Directors

```wiki

Directors from Historical Records
Name Appointment Date Resignation Date Notes
Dennis Stevenson 1974 Ongoing involvement Co-founder, key strategist[149]
Peter Wallis (Peter York) 1974 Ongoing involvement Co-founder, chairman post-2003[150]
Alan Parker (via Brunswick Group) 2000 2003 Managing Director during acquisition[151]

Staff

Staff with Dates and Notes
Name Dates of Service Notes
Peter Mandelson 1990–1992 Consultant, political advisor[152]
James Purnell (via Hydra) 1992–1994 Associated through Hydra, media strategy[153]
John Cummins 1987–1999 Founder of Hydra, strategy consultant[154]

External links

  • Alice Rawsthorn, "Specialist purveyors of tomorrow's ideas", Financial Times (London), June 18, 1990, page 14.
  • Andrew Grice, "Labour's red-rose guru to help true-blue firms", Sunday Times, August 19, 1990.
  • "People: Stevenson takes on Takeovers", Financial Times (London), July 24, 1992, page 16.
  • Chris Blackhurst, "Stevenson the fixer in the M&S battle", TheIsMoney.co.uk, 9 June 2004. (This was originally published in the Evening Standard).
  • "Brunswick buys up York's SRU research shop", PR Week, September 8, 2000. (Sub req'd).

See also

Brunswick Group Peter Mandelson Dennis Stevenson Peter York

Notes

  1. ↑ PR Week, Brunswick buys up York's SRU research shop PR Week, 08-September-2000, Accessed 10-September-2009
  2. ↑ Claire Cozens, York sells SRU to Brunswick The Guardian, 4-September-2000, Accessed 10-September-2000
  3. ↑ Ask Aristotle, Peter Mandelson Biography The Guardian, Accessed 10-September-2009
  4. ↑ Routledge, P. (1999) Mandy, Simon & Schuster inc, London, p. 7.
  5. ↑ 5.00 5.01 5.02 5.03 5.04 5.05 5.06 5.07 5.08 5.09 5.10 5.11 5.12 5.13 5.14 5.15 5.16 Chris Blackhurst, Stevenson the fixer in the M&S battle Evening Standard, 9-June-2004, Accessed 10-September-2009
  6. ↑ PR Week, Brunswick buys up York's SRU research shop PR Week, 08-September-2000, Accessed 10-September-2009
  7. ↑ Claire Cozens, York sells SRU to Brunswick The Guardian, 4-September-2000, Accessed 10-September-2000
  8. ↑ Marketing Week, Sparks fly as Europe/US issue divides marketers Marketing Week, 13-November-2003, Accessed 10-September-2009
  9. ↑ Powerbase, SRU Powerbase, 10-September-2009, Accessed 07-February-2026
  10. ↑ 10.00 10.01 10.02 10.03 10.04 10.05 10.06 10.07 10.08 10.09 10.10 10.11 10.12 10.13 10.14 10.15 10.16 10.17 10.18 10.19 10.20 10.21 10.22 10.23 10.24 10.25 10.26 10.27 10.28 Pinkindustry, Walking between the raindrops — Dennis Stevenson Pinkindustry, Accessed 07-February-2026
  11. ↑ Powerbase, Dennis Stevenson Powerbase, 27-September-2010, Accessed 07-February-2026
  12. ↑ Powerbase, SRU Powerbase, 10-September-2009, Accessed 07-February-2026
  13. ↑ Peter York, Peter York profile Speakers for Schools, Accessed 07-February-2026
  14. ↑ Wikipedia, Peter York Wikipedia, Accessed 07-February-2026
  15. ↑ Powerbase, Dennis Stevenson Powerbase, 27-September-2010, Accessed 07-February-2026
  16. ↑ Peter York profile, Peter York profile Speakers for Schools, Accessed 07-February-2026
  17. ↑ Peter York profile, Peter York profile Speakers for Schools, Accessed 07-February-2026
  18. ↑ Powerbase, Hydra Associates Powerbase, Accessed 07-February-2026
  19. ↑ Claire Cozens, York sells SRU to Brunswick The Guardian, 4-September-2000, Accessed 10-September-2000
  20. ↑ Marketing Week, Sparks fly as Europe/US issue divides marketers Marketing Week, 13-November-2003, Accessed 10-September-2009
  21. ↑ Ask Aristotle, Peter Mandelson Biography The Guardian, Accessed 10-September-2009
  22. ↑ 22.0 22.1 22.2 22.3 22.4 22.5 22.6 22.7 22.8 22.9 Routledge, P. (1999) Mandy, Simon & Schuster inc, London, p. 7.
  23. ↑ Powerbase, SRU Powerbase, 10-September-2009, Accessed 07-February-2026
  24. ↑ Claire Cozens, York sells SRU to Brunswick The Guardian, 4-September-2000, Accessed 10-September-2000
  25. ↑ PR Week, Brunswick buys up York's SRU research shop PR Week, 08-September-2000, Accessed 10-September-2009
  26. ↑ 26.0 26.1 26.2 26.3 26.4 The Guardian, 66. Alan Parker The Guardian, 15-July-2010, Accessed 07-February-2026
  27. ↑ Marketing Week, Sparks fly as Europe/US issue divides marketers Marketing Week, 13-November-2003, Accessed 10-September-2009
  28. ↑ Powerbase, SRU Powerbase, 10-September-2009, Accessed 07-February-2026
  29. ↑ Chris Blackhurst, Stevenson the fixer in the M&S battle London Evening Standard, Accessed 07-February-2026
  30. ↑ Wikipedia, Dennis Stevenson, Baron Stevenson of Coddenham Wikipedia, Accessed 07-February-2026
  31. ↑ Wikipedia, Peter York Wikipedia, Accessed 07-February-2026
  32. ↑ Speakers for Schools, Peter York Speakers for Schools, Accessed 07-February-2026
  33. ↑ Powerbase, Hydra Associates Powerbase, Accessed 07-February-2026
  34. ↑ Powerbase, SRU Powerbase, 10-September-2009, Accessed 07-February-2026
  35. ↑ Sunday Times, Andrew Grice, "Labour's red-rose guru to help true-blue firms" Sunday Times, 19-August-1990, Accessed 07-February-2026
  36. ↑ 36.0 36.1 36.2 36.3 36.4 36.5 36.6 36.7 36.8 Pinkindustry, Walking between the raindrops — Dennis Stevenson Pinkindustry, Accessed 07-February-2026
  37. ↑ Powerbase, Dennis Stevenson Powerbase, 27-September-2010, Accessed 07-February-2026
  38. ↑ Peter York profile, Peter York profile Speakers for Schools, Accessed 07-February-2026
  39. ↑ British Council, 80 moments that shaped the world British Council, Accessed 07-February-2026
  40. ↑ Powerbase, Information Research Department Powerbase, Accessed 07-February-2026
  41. ↑ Powerbase, Dennis Stevenson Powerbase, 27-September-2010, Accessed 07-February-2026
  42. ↑ Powerbase, Dennis Stevenson Powerbase, 27-September-2010, Accessed 07-February-2026
  43. ↑ Powerbase, Hydra Associates Powerbase, Accessed 07-February-2026
  44. ↑ Wikipedia, Peter York Wikipedia, Accessed 07-February-2026
  45. ↑ Speakers for Schools, Peter York Speakers for Schools, Accessed 07-February-2026
  46. ↑ Powerbase, SRU Powerbase, 10-September-2009, Accessed 07-February-2026
  47. ↑ Speakers for Schools, Peter York Speakers for Schools, Accessed 07-February-2026
  48. ↑ Wikipedia, Peter York Wikipedia, Accessed 07-February-2026
  49. ↑ Powerbase, SRU Powerbase, 10-September-2009, Accessed 07-February-2026
  50. ↑ Powerbase, Dennis Stevenson Powerbase, 27-September-2010, Accessed 07-February-2026
  51. ↑ Powerbase, Dennis Stevenson Powerbase, 27-September-2010, Accessed 07-February-2026
  52. ↑ Paul Routledge, (1999) Mandy, Simon & Schuster inc, London, p. 7.
  53. ↑ Powerbase, SRU Powerbase, 10-September-2009, Accessed 07-February-2026
  54. ↑ Powerbase, Dennis Stevenson Powerbase, 27-September-2010, Accessed 07-February-2026
  55. ↑ Powerbase, Dennis Stevenson Powerbase, 27-September-2010, Accessed 07-February-2026
  56. ↑ Powerbase, Dennis Stevenson Powerbase, 27-September-2010, Accessed 07-February-2026
  57. ↑ Hansard, Government Departments: Soft Power Hansard - UK Parliament, 28-April-2011, Accessed 07-February-2026
  58. ↑ The New York Times, A Crisis Management Guru Bungles a Crisis The New York Times, 14-July-2018, Accessed 07-February-2026
  59. ↑ London Evening Standard, Stevenson the fixer in the M&S battle London Evening Standard, Accessed 07-February-2026
  60. ↑ Wikipedia, Dennis Stevenson, Baron Stevenson of Coddenham Wikipedia, Accessed 07-February-2026
  61. ↑ Powerbase, SRU Powerbase, 10-September-2009, Accessed 07-February-2026
  62. ↑ Powerbase, Dennis Stevenson Powerbase, 27-September-2010, Accessed 07-February-2026
  63. ↑ Wikipedia, Dennis Stevenson, Baron Stevenson of Coddenham Wikipedia, Accessed 07-February-2026
  64. ↑ Powerbase, Dennis Stevenson Powerbase, 27-September-2010, Accessed 07-February-2026
  65. ↑ Wikipedia, Dennis Stevenson, Baron Stevenson of Coddenham Wikipedia, Accessed 07-February-2026
  66. ↑ Wikipedia, Dennis Stevenson, Baron Stevenson of Coddenham Wikipedia, Accessed 07-February-2026
  67. ↑ Wikipedia, Peter York Wikipedia, Accessed 07-February-2026
  68. ↑ The Guardian, York sells SRU to Brunswick The Guardian, 4-September-2000, Accessed 07-February-2026
  69. ↑ Wikipedia, Peter York Wikipedia, Accessed 07-February-2026
  70. ↑ Speakers for Schools, Peter York Speakers for Schools, Accessed 07-February-2026
  71. ↑ Powerbase, Hydra Associates Powerbase, Accessed 07-February-2026
  72. ↑ Powerbase, Hydra Associates Powerbase, Accessed 07-February-2026
  73. ↑ Wikipedia, Peter York Wikipedia, Accessed 07-February-2026
  74. ↑ Brunswick Group, Sir Alan Parker, CVO Brunswick Group, Accessed 07-February-2026
  75. ↑ Brunswick Group, Sir Alan Parker, CVO Brunswick Group, Accessed 07-February-2026
  76. ↑ The Guardian, 89. Alan Parker The Guardian, 9-July-2007, Accessed 07-February-2026
  77. ↑ The Guardian, 66. Alan Parker The Guardian, 15-July-2010, Accessed 07-February-2026
  78. ↑ Brunswick Group, Sir Alan Parker, CVO Brunswick Group, Accessed 07-February-2026
  79. ↑ The Guardian, 66. Alan Parker The Guardian, 15-July-2010, Accessed 07-February-2026
  80. ↑ The New York Times, A Crisis Management Guru Bungles a Crisis The New York Times, 14-July-2018, Accessed 07-February-2026
  81. ↑ Brunswick Group, Sir Alan Parker, CVO Brunswick Group, Accessed 07-February-2026
  82. ↑ The New York Times, A Crisis Management Guru Bungles a Crisis The New York Times, 14-July-2018, Accessed 07-February-2026
  83. ↑ Royal Television Society, James Purnell Royal Television Society, Accessed 07-February-2026
  84. ↑ Powerbase, Hydra Associates Powerbase, Accessed 07-February-2026
  85. ↑ Royal Television Society, James Purnell Royal Television Society, Accessed 07-February-2026
  86. ↑ Advance HE, James Purnell Advance HE, Accessed 07-February-2026
  87. ↑ Advance HE, James Purnell Advance HE, Accessed 07-February-2026
  88. ↑ Powerbase, Hydra Associates Powerbase, Accessed 07-February-2026
  89. ↑ Royal Television Society, James Purnell Royal Television Society, Accessed 07-February-2026
  90. ↑ Financial News London, Hawkpoint buys media boutique Financial News London, 25-January-2001, Accessed 07-February-2026
  91. ↑ Powerbase, Hydra Associates Powerbase, Accessed 07-February-2026
  92. ↑ Financial News London, Hawkpoint buys media boutique Financial News London, 25-January-2001, Accessed 07-February-2026
  93. ↑ The Org, John Cummins - Senior Advisor at Gaming Technologies The Org, Accessed 07-February-2026
  94. ↑ The Org, John Cummins - Senior Advisor at Gaming Technologies The Org, Accessed 07-February-2026
  95. ↑ Powerbase, Hydra Associates Powerbase, Accessed 07-February-2026
  96. ↑ Financial News London, Hawkpoint buys media boutique Financial News London, 25-January-2001, Accessed 07-February-2026
  97. ↑ Ask Aristotle, Peter Mandelson Biography The Guardian, Accessed 10-September-2009
  98. ↑ Paul Routledge, (1999) Mandy, Simon & Schuster inc, London, p. 7.
  99. ↑ Powerbase, SRU Powerbase, 10-September-2009, Accessed 07-February-2026
  100. ↑ Ask Aristotle, Peter Mandelson Biography The Guardian, Accessed 10-September-2009
  101. ↑ Wikipedia, Dennis Stevenson, Baron Stevenson of Coddenham Wikipedia, Accessed 07-February-2026
  102. ↑ Powerbase, Dennis Stevenson Powerbase, 27-September-2010, Accessed 07-February-2026
  103. ↑ Powerbase, Hydra Associates Powerbase, Accessed 07-February-2026
  104. ↑ Wikipedia, Peter York Wikipedia, Accessed 07-February-2026
  105. ↑ Powerbase, Dennis Stevenson Powerbase, 27-September-2010, Accessed 07-February-2026
  106. ↑ Powerbase, Dennis Stevenson Powerbase, 27-September-2010, Accessed 07-February-2026
  107. ↑ Wikipedia, Peter York Wikipedia, Accessed 07-February-2026
  108. ↑ Wikipedia, Dennis Stevenson, Baron Stevenson of Coddenham Wikipedia, Accessed 07-February-2026
  109. ↑ Brunswick Group, Sir Alan Parker, CVO Brunswick Group, Accessed 07-February-2026
  110. ↑ Powerbase, Dennis Stevenson Powerbase, 27-September-2010, Accessed 07-February-2026
  111. ↑ Powerbase, Dennis Stevenson Powerbase, 27-September-2010, Accessed 07-February-2026
  112. ↑ Wikipedia, Dennis Stevenson, Baron Stevenson of Coddenham Wikipedia, Accessed 07-February-2026
  113. ↑ PR Week, Brunswick buys up York's SRU research shop PR Week, 08-September-2000, Accessed 10-September-2009
  114. ↑ IMDb, Dennis Stevenson - Biography IMDb, Accessed 07-February-2026
  115. ↑ Speakers for Schools, Peter York Speakers for Schools, Accessed 07-February-2026
  116. ↑ Wikipedia, Peter York Wikipedia, Accessed 07-February-2026
  117. ↑ Wikipedia, Dennis Stevenson, Baron Stevenson of Coddenham Wikipedia, Accessed 07-February-2026
  118. ↑ The Guardian, 66. Alan Parker The Guardian, 15-July-2010, Accessed 07-February-2026
  119. ↑ Wikipedia, Peter York Wikipedia, Accessed 07-February-2026
  120. ↑ IMDb, Dennis Stevenson - Biography IMDb, Accessed 07-February-2026
  121. ↑ Wikipedia, Dennis Stevenson, Baron Stevenson of Coddenham Wikipedia, Accessed 07-February-2026
  122. ↑ Brunswick Group, Sir Alan Parker, CVO Brunswick Group, Accessed 07-February-2026
  123. ↑ Powerbase, Hydra Associates Powerbase, Accessed 07-February-2026
  124. ↑ Powerbase, Hydra Associates Powerbase, Accessed 07-February-2026
  125. ↑ Wikipedia, Dennis Stevenson, Baron Stevenson of Coddenham Wikipedia, Accessed 07-February-2026
  126. ↑ IMDb, Dennis Stevenson - Biography IMDb, Accessed 07-February-2026
  127. ↑ Ask Aristotle, Peter Mandelson Biography The Guardian, Accessed 10-September-2009
  128. ↑ IMDb, Dennis Stevenson - Biography IMDb, Accessed 07-February-2026
  129. ↑ Powerbase, Hydra Associates Powerbase, Accessed 07-February-2026
  130. ↑ Wikipedia, Dennis Stevenson, Baron Stevenson of Coddenham Wikipedia, Accessed 07-February-2026
  131. ↑ Wikipedia, Peter York Wikipedia, Accessed 07-February-2026
  132. ↑ Powerbase, Dennis Stevenson Powerbase, 27-September-2010, Accessed 07-February-2026
  133. ↑ Wikipedia, Dennis Stevenson, Baron Stevenson of Coddenham Wikipedia, Accessed 07-February-2026
  134. ↑ Wikipedia, Dennis Stevenson, Baron Stevenson of Coddenham Wikipedia, Accessed 07-February-2026
  135. ↑ Wikipedia, Dennis Stevenson, Baron Stevenson of Coddenham Wikipedia, Accessed 07-February-2026
  136. ↑ Wikipedia, Dennis Stevenson, Baron Stevenson of Coddenham Wikipedia, Accessed 07-February-2026
  137. ↑ Claire Cozens, York sells SRU to Brunswick The Guardian, 4-September-2000, Accessed 10-September-2000
  138. ↑ Wikipedia, Dennis Stevenson, Baron Stevenson of Coddenham Wikipedia, Accessed 07-February-2026
  139. ↑ Financial News London, Hawkpoint buys media boutique Financial News London, 25-January-2001, Accessed 07-February-2026
  140. ↑ Wikipedia, Dennis Stevenson, Baron Stevenson of Coddenham Wikipedia, Accessed 07-February-2026
  141. ↑ Marketing Week, Sparks fly as Europe/US issue divides marketers Marketing Week, 13-November-2003, Accessed 10-September-2009
  142. ↑ Wikipedia, Peter York Wikipedia, Accessed 07-February-2026
  143. ↑ The New York Times, A Crisis Management Guru Bungles a Crisis The New York Times, 14-July-2018, Accessed 07-February-2026
  144. ↑ Wikipedia, Dennis Stevenson, Baron Stevenson of Coddenham Wikipedia, Accessed 07-February-2026
  145. ↑ Brunswick Group, Sir Alan Parker, CVO Brunswick Group, Accessed 07-February-2026
  146. ↑ Brunswick Group, Sir Alan Parker, CVO Brunswick Group, Accessed 07-February-2026
  147. ↑ The New York Times, A Crisis Management Guru Bungles a Crisis The New York Times, 14-July-2018, Accessed 07-February-2026
  148. ↑ Wikipedia, Peter York Wikipedia, Accessed 07-February-2026
  149. ↑ Powerbase, Dennis Stevenson Powerbase, 27-September-2010, Accessed 07-February-2026
  150. ↑ The Guardian, York sells SRU to Brunswick The Guardian, 4-September-2000, Accessed 07-February-2026
  151. ↑ Brunswick Group, Sir Alan Parker, CVO Brunswick Group, Accessed 07-February-2026
  152. ↑ Ask Aristotle, Peter Mandelson Biography The Guardian, Accessed 10-September-2009
  153. ↑ Powerbase, Hydra Associates Powerbase, Accessed 07-February-2026
  154. ↑ Powerbase, Hydra Associates Powerbase, Accessed 07-February-2026
Retrieved from "https://powerbase.info/index.php?title=Specialist_Research_Unit&oldid=269182"