Former MP Stewart McDonald joins Fenton Fitzwilliam as Senior Adviser
The appointment comes as the new consultancy expands its presence across Dublin and Brussels to meet rising demand for advice on European and global policy issues.
Fenton Fitzwilliam, the recently launched public affairs and communications consultancy, has appointed former UK Member of Parliament Stewart McDonald as Senior Adviser, in a move that deepens the firm’s expertise in foreign affairs, defence and European policy.
The appointment comes less than a month after Fenton Fitzwilliam’s launch and reflects growing demand from clients seeking strategic advice that spans Ireland and Brussels. McDonald’s addition strengthens the firm’s capability to support organisations operating in areas where politics, policy and international relations intersect.
Stewart McDonald served in the UK Parliament from 2015 to 2024, holding senior roles including his party’s Defence Spokesman and member of the Foreign Affairs Committee. He also served on the Transport Select Committee and the Committees on Standards and Privileges, gaining broad experience across domestic and international policy.
During his time in Westminster, he helped shape debate on foreign affairs, European engagement and technology policy. As Vice-Chair of the All-Party Parliamentary Group on Ukraine, his advocacy earned him a Ukrainian state honour from President Zelensky.
At Fenton Fitzwilliam, McDonald will advise clients on the political, policy and regulatory developments shaping Europe’s security and international affairs agenda. His appointment builds on the firm’s growing presence in Dublin and Brussels and its membership of the Paritee network of top-tier advisory firms.
Moray Macdonald, CEO of Fenton Fitzwilliam, said: “Stewart’s appointment reflects what we set out to build - a team that combines political insight with practical experience to help clients cut through complexity and deliver real outcomes. He brings a deep understanding of how decisions are made across European capitals, and how organisations - including those in emerging defence, security and technology sectors - can engage constructively in that process.”
Stewart McDonald said: “I’m delighted to join Fenton Fitzwilliam at such an exciting time. The firm’s focus on clarity, delivery and impact really appeals to me. At a moment when politics and policy are shifting across Europe, helping organisations understand and shape that landscape - particularly in areas as important as security, technology and international cooperation - is more important than ever.”
Fenton Fitzwilliam advises clients across Ireland and the EU on public affairs, policy and strategic communications, helping organisations cut through complexity, build understanding and deliver results that matter.