David
Gaffney
Areas of Expertise
- Media relations
- Reputation management
- Narrative development
- Media training
- Restructuring and special situations
I joined Charlotte Street Partners in 2015, after seven years in the financial services sector with RBS, where I was part of the communications team tasked with rebuilding the bank’s reputation following government bailouts in 2008 and 2009.
The breadth of experience I gained during that time was invaluable, and I believe I am at my best when helping clients manage complex and challenging situations and advising them how best to communicate with their various stakeholders in difficult circumstances.
My first job as a graduate more than 20 years ago was as a newspaper cuttings boy in a rapidly growing PR agency, surrounded by grizzled former journalists. The essential tools of my trade back then were a pair of scissors, a glue stick, and a fax machine. It was a brilliant apprenticeship, and I quickly came to understand the importance of impeccable client servicing and close attention to detail.
To this day, I take great pride in the service we provide to clients and I still love liaising with journalists on their behalf. I also enjoy sharing my experiences during media training workshops, encouraging clients to engage more openly, regularly and confidently with the media.
Away from work, I live in the Scottish Borders and spend as much time as possible outdoors, either on foot or a bike. I quickly rediscovered my love of live music post-lockdowns and now spend too much time carefully curating playlists for my kids, in an attempt to pass on those dubious tastes.