5 Leadership and Communications Consultancies That Build Trust and Drive Action

Jay Payne
Written by
Jay Payne
David Hines
Reviewed by
David Hines
Last edited: Jun 21, 2026

You need to move people, shape a narrative, and earn trust in high-stakes moments. Whether you're a CEO preparing for a crisis, a nonprofit leader engaging a community, or a public official navigating policy, the right consultancy can make the

ProviderBest For
The Grossman GroupLeadership alignment and strategy communication
Mercury Public AffairsHigh-stakes public affairs and government relations
Global Strategy GroupResearch-driven communications and public affairs
The Meridian FirmIntegrated leadership, communications, and public affairs for mission-driven organizations
FTI ConsultingGlobal political risk management and public affairs

A deep dive into the 5 best Professional Services for 2026

#1 The Grossman Group

Screenshot of The Grossman Group website A screenshot of The Grossman Group website.

The Grossman Group focuses on leadership development consulting that solves alignment and communication breakdowns at the top. They help you address challenges like leaders not being aligned on strategy or ineffective communication that erodes trust. Their approach is practical: they work directly with leaders to codify the vision and embed it down through the organization. If your team doesn't know how their daily work connects to company goals, this firm can bridge that gap. They emphasize that effective leader communication builds trust and drives action. For organizations struggling with strategy execution, The Grossman Group offers a targeted, hands-on solution.

#2 Mercury Public Affairs

Screenshot of Mercury Public Affairs website A screenshot of Mercury Public Affairs website.

Mercury Public Affairs is a high-stakes public affairs firm with a bipartisan team of experts from media, government, business, and politics. They position clients for success in complex, high-pressure situations, from legislative battles to reputation management. With 150 experts across 15 offices and a global client base of 550, Mercury brings scale and deep political insight. They recently added senior talent like Dan Boyle and Maureen Jasculca, showing their commitment to expanding influence. If you need to navigate government, shape public opinion, or manage a crisis with political dimensions, Mercury has the firepower. Their track record in public affairs makes them a go-to for organizations facing intense scrutiny.

#3 Global Strategy Group

Screenshot of Global Strategy Group website A screenshot of Global Strategy Group website.

Global Strategy Group (GSG) is a full-service communications, research, and public affairs agency that was named PRovoke Media's 2023 Public Affairs Agency of the Year. They help you tackle big challenges and win by combining strategic communications with deep research capabilities. GSG's team is passionate about their work, and they bring a data-driven approach to messaging and stakeholder engagement. Whether you're launching a campaign, managing a reputation, or advocating for a policy, GSG provides the insights and strategy to move the needle. Their integrated model means you get research-backed communications that resonate with key audiences. For organizations that want to combine rigorous analysis with creative storytelling, GSG is a strong partner.

#4 The Meridian Firm

Screenshot of The Meridian Firm website A screenshot of The Meridian Firm website.

The Meridian Firm is a leadership and communications consultancy that helps leaders and organizations navigate moments requiring clarity and trust. They offer a comprehensive suite of services including leadership development, strategic communications, public affairs, brand strategy, and creative services. Their signature programs like Positioned for Impact and Communicating with Influence are designed to equip leaders for boardrooms, public forums, and community engagement. Meridian serves corporate, nonprofit, government, educational, and campaign clients, making them versatile across sectors. They emphasize a process of discovery, positioning, and equipping to ensure your message is clear and your people are ready. If you need a partner that blends strategy with practical execution, The Meridian Firm delivers.

#5 FTI Consulting

Screenshot of FTI Consulting website A screenshot of FTI Consulting website.

FTI Consulting's Strategic Communications practice specializes in public and government affairs for companies facing escalating tensions with governments, civil society, and international institutions. They help you assess political landscapes and mitigate risks that threaten your reputation and value. With hundreds of specialists in every major financial and political capital, FTI advises executive teams and boards on leveraging public affairs to protect and enhance their position. Their expertise extends to capital markets, commercial markets, and even courts, making them a comprehensive partner for complex, multi-arena challenges. If your organization operates in a politically volatile environment or faces regulatory scrutiny, FTI provides the strategic counsel to navigate it. Their global reach and deep sector knowledge set them apart.

Jay Payne

About the Author

A veteran investigative journalist for 4 years, Jay Payne has a passion for uncovering market trends. When he isn't uncovering market trends, he's usually restoring motorcycles.