Who We Are


We are a boutique consultancy with a focus on quality discreet advice every time - our trusted reputation is built on it. So when you work with Cosgrove & Partners Ltd, your relationship is with our senior directors and you have personal access to our experience, networks and expertise.


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Clayton Cosgrove
Founder & Director

Cosgrove & Partners Ltd is headed by former Cabinet Minister and Member of the New Zealand Parliament, Clayton Cosgrove. Clayton served as a Member of Parliament from 1999 until he stood down at the 2017 General Election.

Clayton held a number of senior ministerial portfolios which included: Immigration, Associate Finance, Building and Construction, Small Business, Sport and Recreation, Rugby World Cup, Statistics and Associate Justice.

Prior to entering Parliament, Clayton held senior corporate and public affairs executive roles in New Zealand and internationally, in the telecommunications and resource sectors.

Clayton has extensive international networks across the political spectrum and within the business, sport, media and public sectors, particularly in New Zealand and Australia. Those contacts and personal relationships forged over decades, and his first-hand experience in the political machine, ensure his clients are well-placed to successfully navigate their challenges and opportunities.

 

Nellie Dean
Director

As a former television journalist for TV3 and Sky Television, Nellie brings a wealth of expertise in media relations and reputation management. Her extensive career spans nearly two decades, encompassing leadership roles in both the public and private sectors, where she has overseen communications, media management, strategic engagement and business transformation.

Nellie is a highly sought-after advisor for high-profile reputation issues, having advised Prime Ministers, senior Cabinet Ministers, top officials and senior leaders. Her experience allows her to craft compelling narratives and strategic messaging that resonate with diverse audiences across a range of platforms from television, radio, digital media and written formats. 

Nellie provides exceptional versatility, having collaborated with a vast portfolio of clients across various sectors including the primary industries, finance, small business, the arts, major events, sports, construction, disaster management, and local government. 

Her extensive experience and strategic insight make her a trusted and invaluable partner in navigating complex media and communication landscapes.