Joel Down remembers clearly the moment when he became interested in research and polling. Reading Joe Klein’s Primary Colors during a trip through China in the mid-90s, “it struck me that behind every charismatic leader lies a group of experts who understand public opinion and how to shape it. Here was a way for me to make a difference to the things that were important to me.”
He was interviewed for a position with a research firm on the morning after the 1997 General Election and joined shortly afterwards. His career developed in parallel with the increasing focus on measurement and citizen engagement that was a hallmark of the Blair government, and he became Director at MORI’s Reputation Centre before moving abroad.
“I’ve had the privilege to meet people from all parts of society, from cabinet minsters and newspaper editors to those deep in debt in the poorest areas of Britain,” he says. “People delight in being asked about themselves and their opinions, and almost always spare the time to help you.”
Joel later worked as an independent consultant advising public and private sector organisations on planning and implementing their research strategies but continued to be frustrated by how the data collected were often ignored or discounted. Joining Bell Pottinger Sans Frontieres offered a rare opportunity to sit within an international communications team and place stakeholder views at the heart of the business.
“Research underpins everything we do, from strategy development through to measuring performance and effect. We are proud of our work, setting robust benchmarks for the impact of our activities, and research is closely integrated into all of our campaigns – even when it might make things more difficult for us."
When not travelling the world directing research and debriefing clients, Joel can be found flying through the Southern Alps of New Zealand, taking part in European marathons and triathlons, and idling at The Oval in South London.
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