Chelsea Shapiro-Waugh

A communications leader with a knack for problem solving, uncomplicating the complicated and keeping things plain English

At 56, I focus on supporting clients in getting their comms right, whatever right looks like for them. I like to get under the skin of a business, understanding the bigger picture and make sure everything joins up in between. I’m particularly fond of taking complex information, or the familiar 20+ page slide deck, and turning it into something simple, clear and useful. Ideally a one pager or infographic. I do love an infographic.

Previously, I worked at the Financial Conduct Authority across policy, transformation and business planning, navigating the technical to land key announcements. Most notably, managing communications during COVID which was both an incredibly surreal and rewarding experience.

As a self-prescribed communications all-rounder, I’ve led teams, advised senior leaders and worked on everything from crisis, change and internal communications to stakeholder engagement, media relations and strategic communications. My experience includes financial services and regulation, life sciences and animal welfare. Whatever the sector, I believe good communications start with understanding who you are, where you’re trying to get to and who you need to reach to make a real impact.

And… I am a huge animal lover and have a habit of finding myself rescuing lost dogs. One memorable occasion involved making my husband stop traffic on a busy road so I could catch a runaway collie. Turns out he was a local farm dog, desperately trying to reach a neighbouring farm to pay a visit to the female collie he’d taken a fancy to. Not sure he thanked me for that one (my husband or the collie!).