Simon was Chief Executive of UK Government Communications from 2021 to 2025, leading more than 6,000 communications and marketing professionals. He advised leaders in high-pressure situations, including COBR meetings, and led Government Communications during the latter stages of the COVID-19 pandemic, the death of HM Queen Elizabeth II, and Russia’s war in Ukraine. He was awarded a CBE for services to Government Communications in the 2026 New Year Honours. He now owns Kingsford Strategy which helps clients design communication strategies, build AI and digital capability, and strengthen crisis preparedness. He is also the author and host of Cut Through!, a Substack and Podcast on how to communicate with clarity in a noisy world. Each week he shares lessons on strategy, leadership, and innovation drawing on practical experience and the latest research.