Alastair, who was Tony Blair’s long-time Press Secretary and senior advisor, is one of the country’s foremost experts on leadership, communications and strategy.
A leading national newspaper journalist before he joined Mr Blair’s team on his election as Labour leader in 1994, he remained at his side for almost a decade.
He is credited with helping create New Labour and delivering two landslide election victories.
As the Prime Minister’s Press Secretary and later Director of Communications and Strategy, he was responsible for modernising the Government’s communications structures and approach.
He was involved in every area of policy, travelled extensively with Mr Blair and established close relations with many world leaders.
Since leaving Government, he has forged a successful career as an author, broadcaster, public speaker and advisor to senior business figures on leadership and strategy.
His accounts of his period with Mr Blair, recorded in his diaries, have been both best-sellers and critically acclaimed.
He has also found time to raise money and awareness for leukaemia and mental health charities as well as the Labour Party.
A passionate supporter of Burnley F.C., Alastair has advised athletes, sports organisations and clubs around the world on their communications strategies and reputation management.
Alastair joined Portland in May 2012 in a senior part-time role.