Apella Advisors has recruited Ramesh Chhabra as a partner. Chhabra has been freelance since the collapse of Global Counsel earlier this year.

Announcing his appointment on the 29 June, Apella stated that Chhabra brings “extensive experience across government, regulation and financial services”.

Regarding his new role, Chhabra said: “Apella has built a formidable reputation for sharp insight, strategic advice and trusted counsel. I am delighted to be joining the firm at such an exciting stage in its growth.”

Chhabra began his career in communications as press secretary to then-shadow home secretary David Davis in 2004. He later became a special adviser to then-chancellor George Osborne and was awarded an OBE for public service in 2015.

He went on to hold senior communications roles at the London Stock Exchange Group, Blackstone and the Financial Conduct Authority before moving agency-side in 2024 as senior counsel at Lexington. Last year, he was appointed a director at Global Counsel.

At Apella Advisors, Chhabra will advise clients on strategic communications and, alongside partner James Kirkup, help lead a new political, regulatory and reputational due diligence service for investors. The offering assesses how external risks could affect acquisitions, ownership and exit strategies.

“His insight and judgement will be invaluable to clients navigating complex stakeholder …