Company Description
Hardcastle is an advisory firm focused on the MENA region dedicated to supporting clients at the intersection of business, politics, and reputation management. The firm provides tailored advice to governments, businesses, private offices, and non-governmental organisations, assisting them in navigating complex global challenges. With expertise across various sectors, Hardcastle delivers highly informed, bespoke guidance aligned with the strategic goals of its clients. Its mission is underpinned by a deep understanding of client needs and long-term objectives.
Role Description
Hardcastle Advisory is seeking a Network Manager to support the continued growth of the firm by expanding our client base, strengthening strategic relationships, managing key client accounts, and overseeing the successful delivery of client engagements across our priority markets.
This role is ideal for someone who thrives at the intersection of relationship-building and delivery oversight and who is motivated by turning networks into long-term, high-value client partnerships.
Successful candidates can expect to progress to the role of Chief of Staff following strong performance and mentoring.
Responsibilities
* Proactively build, manage, and expand a strong network of prospective clients, partners, journalists, and key stakeholders across relevant sectors and geographies (MENA).
* Identify, originate, and develop new client opportunities, from early engagement through to conversion and onboarding.
* Generate and nurture leads, contributing to pitches, proposals, and responses to client briefs.
* Represent the firm at relevant industry events, briefings, roundtables, and external engagements in the UK and internationally.
* Maintain and develop contact databases and relationship-tracking systems to ensure structured and consistent engagement.
* Monitor sector developments to identify engagement opportunities and inform outreach strategies.
* Delivery of quarterly webinars, roundtables, and conferences as platforms for relationship-building and client engagement.
* Availability to travel internationally 2 days per month
Client management
* Act as a relationship lead for selected client accounts, serving as a trusted point of contact.
* Develop a deep understanding of client objectives, priorities, and success metrics to ensure alignment with advisory services.
* Manage ongoing communication, ensuring clarity, responsiveness, and proactive engagement.
* Lead client check-ins, progress updates, and review meetings.
* Identify opportunities to expand engagements, deepen partnerships, and enhance client retention.
* Ensure high levels of client satisfaction and long-term relationship sustainability.
Operational Support
* Collaborate closely with senior leadership to align network development and client strategy with the firm’s broader priorities.
* Provide occasional support on administrative or logistical matters related to external engagements, delegations, or VIP visits.
* Undertake other related activities that support the growth, reputation, and profile of the firm, as required.
Requirements
* 5+ experience in a related sector
* Strong educational background at a leading university, International Relations/Politics is preferable
* Existing professional network is essential
* Right to Work in the UK
About you
* Natural relationship-builder with a strong instinct for identifying and developing new business opportunities.
* Experience of engaging senior stakeholders and representing an organisation externally.
* You are highly organised, commercially minded, and able to manage multiple relationships and workstreams simultaneously.
* You are proactive, self-directed, and motivated by contributing to the growth of a small, high-impact firm.
* You combine strategic insight with operational discipline and attention to detail.