PLMR, the independent communications agency, has appointed James van der Graaf as an Associate Director to further bolster the expansion of its Energy and Sustainability practice.
James brings significant public affairs and strategic communications experience, joining from H/Advisors Cicero, where he advised major clients - from FTSE 100 companies to new entrant challengers - across the energy, infrastructure and transport sectors. He also brings significant in-house industry expertise, having worked at GFG Alliance, an international industrial and energy group, where he focused on developing the group’s steel, aluminium and renewable energy portfolios in the UK. James is also a member of the PRCA NextGen Public Affairs Board, a group dedicated to fostering growth, innovation, and best practices within the public affairs sector.
At PLMR, James will support the growth of the Energy and Sustainability team, expanding its capabilities and client roster, with the practice having secured mandates with industry leaders including Centrica, Bluefield and Jet2. With a background in highly regulated markets, James will support PLMR’s clients to navigate and inform the UK’s energy policy and regulatory landscape.
His arrival is part of PLMR’s ongoing strategy to continue to boost its expertise and high-quality service to clients, and reflects the expansion in its consultancy team.
Commenting on the hire, PLMR’s Head of Energy and Sustainability, Patrick Cousens said: "James brings fantastic credentials, real experience and a track record of success – we are delighted to have him on board. 2025 has been a year of significant growth for the practice, and we are thrilled to be expanding our team with such a talented senior hire.”
James added: “It is a pivotal year for energy, with a host of decisions expected from the Government that could transform the sector. I’m excited to support PLMR’s already excellent offer to clients, helping shape the debates that matter most to them and providing them with advice that has a positive impact.”