The Company and the Activist

Reviews / Votes

"This book offers an insightful analysis of the evolving landscape of activism and its profound implications for business. Packed full of insight, practical advice and real-world examples, this book helps to build knowledge and understanding for all concerned. A must-read for anyone serious about mastering the complexities of the modern business environment."

Alastair McCapra, Chief Executive, CIPR - Chartered Institute of Public Relations

"Stuart Thomson's new book, The Company and the Activist, argues that anti-corporate activist campaigns can have a wide-ranging impact on a company's reputation and profitability. That's because most of the groups that challenge large corporations aren't just publicity hounds trying to embarrass Big Pharma, Big Tech, Big Food or one of the other Big Sectors. They know how to lobby, how to create a grassroots movement, how to launch shareholder campaigns, how to partner with organized labor, and how to steer consumers away from brands. They also know how to reach a company's employees.

Businesses have many more options available to respond to these challenges than they realize, but first they must understand the dynamics of present-day activism. Thompson, who is an astute observer and researcher on public affairs strategies, does a brilliant job analyzing why different approaches will or won't work in different circumstances."

Doug Pinkham, President, Public Affairs Council

"Stuart is a deep thinker about the issues which challenge organisations and their place in society. This book is a timely and highly readable analysis on how business and civil society can work together."

Iain Anderson, Founding Partner and Executive Chairman, H/Advisors Cicero; author; Non Executive Director

"Businesses do not operate in a vacuum. They're impacted by and impact the economy and society. In a globalised and digital world, it is easier than ever to find examples of activists targeting and working with businesses. This book explains the different types of activists and their varied relationships with business. This is a great read for activists and businesses alike that want to collaborate, or at least better understand one another."

Rebecca Deegan, Founder & CEO, I Have A Voice

"The reality for communicators today is that virtually anyone is a potential activist with a wide reach and significant impact. A timely and useful perspective for these uncertain times!"

David Gallagher, Partner, Folgate Advisors

"Stuart's book explores the interplay between activists and businesses and will help readers understand the importance of reputation management. This is an ideal book if you're new to the subject or wish to benefit from the wisdom of those experienced in this field. Communication professionals will particularly enjoy the activist CEOs, risk management and employee activism sections."

Rachel Miller, Founder, All Things IC and author of Internal Communication Strategy

"This book is a must read for communications professionals, business leaders and activists. It examines the often fraught relationship between corporations and campaigners, offering a pragmatic blueprint for moving beyond fear and entrenched positions. By advocating engagement over conflict, it demonstrates how building trust can serve not only corporate interests but also contribute to a more better world."

Farzana Baduel, President-elect, Chartered Institute of Public Relations; CEO & Co-founder, Curzon PR

"In his book, Stuart, founder of CWE Communications, aims to get beyond PR issues and discuss the impact on business decisions. He suggests that businesses and activists must understand each other to achieve progress...Packed with examples, insights and practical advice, Stuart analyses why certain approaches may or may not work under specific circumstances. For instance, he details the power of local communities and the importance of business and employee relations...Stuart highlights the need for businesses to have a position regarding activist and government engagement. While some companies may seem scared of political interaction, Stuart suggests businesses should get involved in writing standards and regulations. Activists see the value, so why shouldn't business? This position is a valuable reminder of the importance of public affairs and PR and the industry's role in helping organisations navigate a more activist environment."

James Boyd-Wallis, CIPR PA Group Vice Chair, CIPR Public Affairs Blog

"In an ever-more challenging world, The Company and The Activist is a timely, profoundly important and essential guide. PR professionals and business leaders should look no further if they want to navigate an unpredictable and complex business context whilst managing the risks of a new breed of stakeholder."

Helen Brocklebank, Chief Executive, Walpole

Books on public relations and activism have been on some journey...this new book [has a]fresh focus - on the activist CEO and also on shareholder activism...The chapter on activism and the law that also looks at shareholder activism is a distinctive feature of this book...[Thomson's] approach is not academic but practical; the author draws extensively on case studies and practitioner interviews. Yet it's a sophisticated read that spans several boundaries that will fit best on my bookshelf alongside books on sustainability and purpose...As Thomson notes, 'we moved beyond PR some time ago, but not everyone appreciates that yet.'

Richard Bailey, Hon FCIPR, PR Academy Insights