The Bottom Line The Decisions That Made Me: Heather Vernon (Woburn Partners)
Nov 13, 2025
Heather Vernon, co-founder of Woburn Partners and former Teach First educator, shares her unexpected journey from teaching to politics and entrepreneurship. She reveals the challenges of working in Westminster and how her experiences shaped her resilience. Heather discusses the moment she decided to start a PR firm with James Robinson, emphasizing the importance of having a co-founder. She also reflects on the impact of COVID-19 on her business and the strategic decisions needed for growth, highlighting her commitment to reputation and crisis management.
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Turning A Rough Start Into Outstanding Performance
- Heather Vernon joined Teach First after university and struggled at first but became rated outstanding by Ofsted in her second year.
- The experience taught her resilience and the ability to learn quickly under pressure.
From Classroom To Westminster Rapidly
- Heather moved from teaching into politics, taking a junior Westminster role that was financially tough but offered rapid learning and promotion.
- She became a political advisor (a SPAD equivalent) and worked with shadow cabinet ministers, which she calls a pivotal decision.
Asked To Co‑Found A PR Firm
- James Robinson, a former colleague, called Heather to propose starting a PR business together and she accepted the punt.
- They combined complementary skills and friendship to found Woburn Partners, incorporated in 2018 after a preparatory period.