LONDON--EADS and its largest business unit, Airbus, have retained Hanover to provide public affairs counsel for its UK operations.

Hanover secures the brief following a competitive pitch, displacing incumbent firm Good Relations. EADS' UK corporate communications account remains overseen by College Hill.

The hanover team will work across the EADS group (Airbus, Astrium, Cassidian, Eurocopter and Innovation Works) to enhance its reputation and strategic positioning with political stakeholders in the UK. 

Robin Southwell, CEO of EADS UK, said, “Hanover’s smart, independent thinking came across strongly throughout the procurement process. I look forward to working with them to underline EADS’ leading role within the UK’s engineering and advanced manufacturing sector.”

Katherine Bennett, VP and head of political affairs for Airbus will be the client lead on behalf of the EADS group in the UK.  For hanover, the account will be led by director James Gurling. 

“EADS contributes hugely to the UK economy, employing more than 17,500 people and invests heavily in training and R&D," added Hanover MD Charles Lewington.