Palmes Advisory is a boutique strategic advisory firm operating across the EMEA with a specific focus on the Arabian Gulf and UK. Our tailored approach, breadth of experience and extensive network ensure that our clients are positioned at the forefront of the most impactful political and commercial developments in both jurisdictions.
Our expertise enables leaders in governments, investments funds, corporations and family offices to bridge gaps between markets and decision-makers in the most efficient manner possible.
Palmes Advisory is highly selective about who we work with, ensuring our clients’ offerings add value desired by the region. Leveraging deep subject matter expertise with a regional network of the most influential leaders in government and the private sector, we consistently deliver insights and strategies for our clients that enable them to maximise their impact and returns.
Sensitive to cultural mores and business practices, we combine our values and commitment to the long-term growth of the region, by devoting our assets and expertise to supporting the firms that will build the economies and industries of the future. We are proud to have enabled such a diverse variety of positive impact projects, transactions and partnerships.
Our evolved understanding of cultural sensitivities and differing legal and political environments enables us to chart a path to long-term engagements for clients, delivering their growth objectives while avoiding potential pitfalls in establishing their footprint and relationships in the region.
Meet the core team
Oliver Renwick
Oliver founded Palmes Advisory in 2014, actively building the firm from the ground up and today continues to oversee the business with a focus on the Government, Geopolitical and Strategic Advisory Practices.
Working with senior leaders, governments, commercial organisations and high-profile individuals, Oliver has harnessed the incredible growth potential of markets across the EMEA and unlocked high impact opportunities for clients, stakeholders and investors alike.
Grounded in a unique understanding of the political and business landscapes of both the UK and the Gulf, Oliver has worked directly and indirectly for government entities in both regions. With a track record of successfully positioning clients’ interests in complex environments, he complements and develops strategic objectives with an evolved understanding of geopolitical affairs; tailoring advice to a Western or Middle Eastern context. Oliver holds a degree in Politics from Durham University.
Harrison Layden-Fritz
Harrison works across our Government, Geopolitical and Strategic Advisory Practices, with a special focus on Palmes Advisory’s UHNWI client portfolio.
Harrison brings experience working with the most senior government leaders across the Gulf, having previously honed his expertise at one of the most reputable political advisory firms in the region, advising principals on a range of issues at the intersection of strategy, communications and policy. Highly skilled in research and analysis, his ability to source and interrogate macro, open-source data and subsequently distil practical and forward-thinking recommendations, helps leaders navigate the constantly evolving landscapes in which they operate. His extensive experience in both high-calibre communications solutions and stakeholder engagement makes him a valuable resource to our clients.
Harrison holds a degree in International Relations from the University of Leeds, with a focus on UK, European and MENA politics.
Julie Banks Thompson
Julie oversees Operations at Palmes Advisory and serves as Executive Assistant to the Group’s Founder and Managing Director Oliver Renwick.
With extensive experience supporting senior leaders across government and the private sector, Julie has served as Senior Parliamentary Assistant to two British Members of Parliament and as Private Personal Assistant to a High-Net-Worth Peer and their family office. She excels in managing complex, fast-paced environments and ensuring seamless operations.
Skilled in strategic planning and collaboration, Julie has worked with diverse stakeholders across the UK and internationally, bridging cultural and professional boundaries with ease.
Julie previously spent several years living in the Middle East. She is now based in the UK.