On 27 September 2007, Louise Harvey, one of the founding partners of Brussels communications consultancy Blueprint Partners, spoke to FEW members about her experience and the key lessons she has learned throughout her career.

Louise began her career in the UK Foreign Office, at a time (not so very long ago!) when women were required to resign if they married. During the time she spent with the Foreign Office, Louise worked in London, Kuala Lumpur, Dar es Salaam and The Hague. After thirteen years in the diplomatic service, Louise moved to the private sector, taking up a public affairs role in an international communications consultancy, where she became vice-president. In 2003, Louise formed Blueprint with three female partners, and in 4 years the business has grown substantially, to around 25 staff.

Louise spoke about the values that were instilled in her during her time in the public sector: the importance of maintaining high professional standards, of building relationships and of continuing to train and develop your own skills and those of your staff, and the enduring role that these have played in the development of her career. She also spoke frankly about the pressures (and pleasures) of combining a successful professional life with a fulfilling personal life and sparked a very lively and interesting debate.

The talk was preceded by a buffet lunch and an opportunity for FEW members to mingle and network.


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