I set up my independent consulting practice, Outside Context Ltd, in 2020, after nearly twenty-five years in the media and publishing industry, including fifteen years in senior executive roles at the Big Five trade publisher Hachette UK. Since then I have worked with more than forty clients around the world.
What I do
My engagements typically fall into four areas:
Strategy reviews. I work with boards and leadership teams on publishing, content, digital and AI strategy—helping organisations assess their position, stress-test assumptions and make decisions under uncertainty. This often involves competitive analysis, scenario planning and structured facilitation.
AI transformation. I help organisations move from experimenting with AI tools to building deliberate, governed AI capability. This includes assessing readiness, identifying high-value use cases, designing workflows and agent architectures, and developing internal policy and governance frameworks. I also deliver award-winning, hands-on AI training for teams.
Research and horizon scanning. I produce research, analysis and briefing documents on technology trends, market shifts, regulatory developments and competitive dynamics—particularly where AI intersects with publishing, media and other knowledge-intensive industries.
Facilitation. I design and facilitate away days, board-level strategy sessions, and corporate events. My approach combines structured frameworks with practical exercises, and I’m experienced at working with groups that include a wide range of cultural backgrounds, seniority and technical confidence. I’m also a highly experienced keynote speaker and event chair.
Who I work with
Most of my clients are in publishing, media, education and professional services, but I increasingly work with organisations in adjacent sectors—communications, research, and membership bodies—where content, knowledge and intellectual property are central to the business. Typical clients include trade and academic publishers, industry associations, literary agencies, technology companies, and non-profits.
How to get in touch
If you’d like to explore how I could help your organisation, please get in touch by email or call me on +44 01722 435610. I’m always happy to have an initial conversation without obligation.