Nerissa Chesterfield is a distinguished British communications expert with a career that spans public affairs, political communications, and the corporate sector. Known for her strategic acumen and exceptional media handling, Chesterfield has significantly influenced the political communication landscape in the UK. Her roles have ranged from leading media relations in high-stakes government positions to overseeing corporate communications in the private sector. In this article, we’ll take a deep dive into her career, achievements, and the transition that has defined her professional journey.
Early Life and Career Foundations
While detailed information about Chesterfield’s early life remains relatively private, her professional journey is anything but. From the beginning of her career, she demonstrated an exceptional understanding of political dynamics and media relations. She entered the world of political communications through early roles in public affairs, where she honed her ability to shape narratives, manage crisis situations, and influence public opinion.
Her involvement with think tanks, particularly the Institute of Economic Affairs (IEA), laid the foundation for her expertise in economic policy and media communications. Chesterfield’s strategic communications skills quickly attracted attention, paving the way for her future roles in high-profile political campaigns and government communications.
Political Communication: A Key Player in Brexit and Beyond
Chesterfield first gained national attention during the Brexit campaign. She played a key role in the Vote Leave campaign, which aimed to secure the UK’s exit from the European Union. The campaign, which was both highly visible and divisive, required expert communication strategies to manage the flood of media coverage and ensure that the core messages reached voters effectively.
Her role in the Vote Leave campaign boosted her profile, and she quickly became known for her ability to handle media relations in a fast-paced, high-pressure environment. Following the success of the campaign, Chesterfield’s name became synonymous with effective political communication in the UK.
Chesterfield’s political savvy and ability to craft messages resonated with those in power, which led to her appointment as the Head of Communications at the Institute of Economic Affairs (IEA). In this role, she was responsible for shaping the think tank’s public policy messaging and increasing its visibility in the media. She remained with the IEA until 2019, a period that saw her play a major role in shaping the UK’s economic discourse during the post-Brexit era.
From Government to Downing Street: The Press Secretary Role
Chesterfield’s success in public affairs caught the eye of senior government officials, leading to her appointment as Media Special Adviser to the Treasury. This role brought her into the heart of UK government communication strategies, where she managed press relations and served as the key liaison between the Treasury and the media. It was here that Chesterfield’s ability to handle complex, high-stakes situations became evident.
Her work in the Treasury proved to be just the beginning of her government career. In October 2022, she was appointed Press Secretary at 10 Downing Street under Prime Minister Rishi Sunak. Chesterfield’s role in this high-profile position was crucial as she managed the Prime Minister’s media image and communicated policy changes during a time of political uncertainty.
Her appointment was a testament to her communications prowess and the trust placed in her to manage the government’s image during critical moments in British politics. Her tenure was marked by her careful attention to detail, her ability to stay calm under pressure, and her strategic thinking.
Director of Communications: The Ultimate Challenge at No. 10
In 2023, Nerissa Chesterfield’s career reached a new height when she was appointed Director of Communications at No. 10 Downing Street, succeeding Amber de Botton. As Director of Communications, Chesterfield was responsible for overseeing all government communications and managing public perception during some of the most tumultuous political periods in recent UK history.
In this role, she was at the helm of managing the government’s messaging across various platforms, from press conferences to public speeches. Chesterfield was tasked with navigating the media landscape during a time when the UK was facing significant challenges, from economic fluctuations to international crises. Her leadership in this role reinforced her reputation as one of the country’s foremost political communicators.
A New Chapter: Transition to Corporate Communications at Chelsea FC
After leaving her government role in 2024, Chesterfield shifted to the private sector. In December of the same year, she was appointed Director of Corporate Communications and Affairs at Chelsea FC Holdings Limited. This was a significant career shift, moving from political communications to the world of sports management.
Her role at Chelsea FC involves overseeing corporate communications and managing public relations efforts for the club. This position not only aligns with her expertise in media relations but also places her at the center of one of the most high-profile football clubs in the world. Chesterfield’s strategic vision and experience with managing complex communication channels make her a perfect fit for this high-profile role.
Honours and Recognition
Chesterfield’s contributions to public life have not gone unnoticed. In 2025, she was appointed Commander of the Order of the British Empire (CBE) in the Resignation Honours List. This prestigious honor recognizes her years of service in political communication and public affairs. The CBE is one of the highest honors in the UK and reflects Chesterfield’s significant impact on British political communication.
Nerissa Chesterfield’s Personal Life and Public Image
Though Nerissa Chesterfield has maintained a relatively private personal life, her professional achievements speak volumes. She is active on social media platforms, especially LinkedIn, where she shares insights and updates from her career. Her Instagram presence, though not as prominent, further adds to her visibility in the public sphere.
Chesterfield’s public image is one of professionalism and expertise. Her ability to navigate both the media and public opinion has made her one of the leading figures in the UK’s political communication scene.
Conclusion
Nerissa Chesterfield’s career is a testament to the power of strategic communication in shaping political discourse and public policy. From her early days in public affairs and think tanks to her influential roles in the UK government and transition into the private sector, Chesterfield has proven time and again that effective communication can change the course of political narratives.
Her work in government communications, particularly at No. 10 Downing Street, was pivotal in guiding the UK through times of political uncertainty. Now, in her role at Chelsea FC, Chesterfield is proving that her skills extend beyond politics and into the corporate world, where her media strategies will continue to shape the public image of one of the world’s most successful football clubs.
Nerissa Chesterfield’s career is far from over, and her future in both politics and corporate communications promises to be just as impactful as her past achievements.