NBCC were pleased to introduce to you our new member Bas Batelaan, Managing Partner of Public Matters.
Public Matters is a leading public affairs & lobby consultancy in the Netherlands and Brussels, specialising in policy influencing and strategic communication.
Can you provide a brief introduction to yourself and your role at Public Matters?
Public Matters is a leading public affairs and lobbying firm with offices in The Hague and Brussels, specializing in providing strategic advice and advocacy services to a diverse range of clients. Being part of the Public Matters Team since 2018 I am now Managing Partner and one of the owners.
What inspired the establishment of Public Matters, and how has the company evolved since its inception?
Founded in 2001, our mission is to help organizations navigate complex political landscapes and effectively communicate their messages to policymakers and stakeholders in the Netherlands and at the EU policy level. Since 2019 we have focused more on growing our company and doubled in size since then.
What makes Public Matters stand out in the field of public affairs and lobbying?
Our team consists of 33 experienced professionals with backgrounds in politics, journalism, and industry sectors. This diverse expertise allows us to offer unique insights and tailored strategies to our clients. Moreover, we are very committed to ethical lobbying and transparency.
What types of clients do Public Matters typically work with?
We work with a wide array of clients, including multinational corporations, non-profit organizations, industry associations, and governmental bodies. Our clients are active in multiple sectors, including healthcare, finance, technology, and energy. Our approach is to understand the specific needs of each client and provide customized solutions that align with their objectives and values.
How does Public Matters contribute to effective policymaking?
We believe that constructive engagement and informed dialogue between the public and private sectors are essential for effective policymaking. Our role is to facilitate this dialogue by providing accurate information, insightful analysis, and strategic advice to our clients.
What are some of the key services you offer?
Our services include strategic advice on public affairs, stakeholder mapping and engagement, policy analysis, lobbying campaigns, and crisis management. We also offer training and workshops on public affairs and political communication.
What are your goals for the future?
Our goal is to continue to be a leader in public affairs and lobbying, expanding our reach and impact both in the Netherlands and in Brussels. We are committed to fostering ethical and effective public-private partnerships that contribute to societal well-being and sustainable development.
How can Public Matters support members of the Netherlands-British Chamber of Commerce (NBCC) in their public affairs and lobbying efforts, in the Netherlands and Brussels?
We are well-positioned to assist NBCC members with a range of public affairs and lobbying needs. With our offices in The Hague and Brussels, we offer specialized advice and advocacy on NL and EU regulations, trade policies, environmental and sustainability standards, digital transformation, and labor and employment regulations. We understand the intricacies of navigating post-Brexit challenges, such as customs and trade policies, market access, and regulatory alignment. Whether it's influencing policy decisions, engaging with stakeholders, or developing strategic advocacy campaigns, we could provide comprehensive support to NBCC members to help them achieve their objectives in these complex policy areas.
How can organisations interested in public affairs and lobbying services contact Public Matters to discuss their needs?
They could reach out to us directly via email (This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.) or phone (+31619858401), or have a look at look at our website à www.publicmatters.eu.
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