Garry

Campbell

Head of Policy & Communications,

Groundwork UK

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brings both strategic vision and operational excellence to complex challenges

Garry Campbell is a strategic corporate affairs leader who excels when the stakes are highest. With two decades navigating the critical intersection of policy, crisis management, and digital communications, he has built a reputation for delivering decisive outcomes when it matters most.

His career spans directing national media relations, leading communications for high-value partnerships across public, private, and voluntary sectors, and driving policy priorities through Westminster and Whitehall. He has pioneered the use of social media, digital tools, and AI to enhance the strategic impact of the charity he works for.

Known for leading multi-disciplinary teams in high-pressure environments, Garry brings both strategic vision and operational excellence to complex challenges.

q&a

Why did you sign up to be a judge for The Pros Awards 2026?

I’ve signed up to be a judge for The Pros Awards as I’m part of The Xec. ‘Class of 25.’ When applying to be on The Xec. I said I wanted to ‘pay it forward’ and offering my time as a judge is a very small way of me being able to repay Elizabeth for everything she put into making my time on The Xec. an incredible experience.

[Ed. Okay, now I’m crying. <3]

What Insta/LinkedIn/Tik Tok account should every comms pro follow and why?

I’ve always enjoyed the content Helen Reynolds produces (on LinkedIn) and I really appreciate the way she can take all of the everyday frustrations comms professionals feel in relation to their non-comms colleagues and turn it into funny, irreverent memes that never fail to cheer me up.

What was your favourite PR/comms campaign from 2025 and why?

I really enjoyed ‘Misheard’ by Specsavers. They secretly partnered with Rick Astley to re-record Never Gonna Give You Up using “misheard” lyrics like “slicing a virtual cheese.” Initially leaked as a mysterious viral track, the stunt was revealed as a clever national hearing test.

As always, we’ve got a great DJ booked for The Pros Awards award ceremony in September – what’s your dance floor filler request?

Chopper – Ray Keith (Shy FX remix)