The View from Inside Government

Why is a public-private negotiation so different from a private-private one?

In this episode of Negotiating Government, Negotient's Chair, former Cabinet Minister David Gauke, is joined by Negotient Senior Associate Miranda Worthington, former Director of Industrial Relations at the Department for Health and Social Care, to explore the unique challenges and dynamics of negotiating with a government.

The conversation examines what makes Government a very different counterparty - marked by scale, complexity, intense scrutiny, and ever-evolving objectives.

Listeners will gain practical insights into:

• How government’s internal silos and shifting priorities shape negotiations.

• The impact of public scrutiny, media attention, and political pressures on deal-making.

• The importance of understanding precedent, fiscal constraints, and the culture of the civil service.

• Strategies for effective negotiation, including anticipating political shifts, building relationships with officials and political teams, and ensuring your own organisation can deliver.

Whether you’re a public or private sector negotiator, this episode offers a candid look at what it takes to navigate government negotiations successfully.