hjb

hjb is a strategic communications consultancy based in Zurich, Switzerland, led by Dr. Hans-Jakob Boesch. The firm specializes in crisis management, public affairs, and strategic communication, offering senior-level counsel to boards of directors and executive management. Operating from its headquarters in Zurich, hjb focuses on helping organizations navigate high-stakes situations where reputation, regulatory standing, and operational stability are at risk.

Services and Specialties

hjb provides a focused set of services designed for critical moments and complex environments. The firm does not offer a broad menu of communication services but instead concentrates on three core areas where deep expertise and discretion are essential:

• Crisis Management: Helping organizations maintain operational capability, prevent escalation, and protect reputation during incidents or crises.
• Public Affairs: Advising on political processes, regulatory challenges, and interactions with government bodies to safeguard organizational interests.
• Strategic Communication: Developing clear, persuasive messaging for stakeholders, media, and the public to strengthen reputation and credibility.

These services are delivered with a hands-on, personal approach. hjb emphasizes practical experience over theoretical knowledge, drawing on Dr. Boesch's background in politics, communication, and leadership. The firm's model is built around direct, senior-level involvement in every mandate, ensuring that clients receive experienced guidance rather than delegated work from junior staff.

Approach and Philosophy

hjb operates with a clear philosophy: strategy comes first. The firm believes that effective communication and crisis response must be grounded in a well-defined plan, not reactive activity. This principle, inspired by Sun Tzu, guides every engagement. hjb avoids what it calls "blind activism" and instead focuses on deliberate, strategic action that achieves lasting results.

Another distinguishing factor is the level of personal attention. hjb positions itself as a "senior sparring partner" for board members and executives, offering direct, confidential support in situations that require absolute discretion. This is particularly valuable for organizations dealing with sensitive issues such as governance disputes, regulatory investigations, or major reputation threats. The firm's size and structure allow it to maintain this level of intimacy, with Dr. Boesch personally handling each client relationship.

hjb's approach is also rooted in practical, real-world experience. The firm argues that theoretical knowledge alone is insufficient for navigating the complexities of politics, media, and leadership. Instead, hjb draws on decades of hands-on work in these fields, providing clients with actionable advice that comes from having been in similar situations before.

Location and Credentials

Based in Zurich, Switzerland, hjb serves clients across the country and beyond. Zurich is a natural home for the firm, given its role as Switzerland's economic and political hub. Many of hjb's clients are based in the Zurich area, though the firm works with organizations throughout Switzerland and occasionally in other European markets. The Swiss context is important to hjb's work, particularly in public affairs, where understanding the country's federal structure, direct democracy, and regulatory environment is essential.

hjb is led by Dr. Hans-Jakob Boesch, who brings extensive experience in politics, communication, and executive leadership. The firm's credentials are built on this background, as well as a track record of handling delicate assignments for corporate boards, industry associations, and individual leaders. hjb does not publish a list of clients, consistent with its emphasis on discretion, but its reputation in Zurich's business and political circles is well-established.

Who hjb Is Best Suited For

hjb is a good fit for organizations and leaders who face high-pressure situations where reputation, regulatory standing, or operational continuity are at stake. This includes companies dealing with a crisis, such as a product recall, a data breach, or a leadership scandal. It also includes organizations navigating complex political or regulatory environments, such as a new law, a public inquiry, or a contentious stakeholder issue. For boards and executives who value direct, senior-level counsel and a strategic, no-nonsense approach, hjb offers a focused, experienced alternative to larger, more generalist agencies. The firm is not designed for routine communication needs but excels in moments that require judgment, discretion, and a clear head.