Leadership Lessons with Patrizio Perlini, Partner at Utopia

Associate Partner and Head of Europe, Barbara Ozanon recently caught up with Patrizio Perlini, Partner at Utopia, to chat about the world of public affairs.

From the importance of curiosity, to what it takes to be a successful leader in the Italian public affairs landscape, Patrizio has a wealth of insight to offer.

Read the full interview below:

What drew you to a career in public affairs?

I studied political science at a private university here in Rome. We had very small classes, which allowed me to develop a close network with professors and experts in politics.

During my university years, I founded a cultural association and organised numerous meetings. This led to an opportunity to work in the Italian Senate, where I spent about eight years working in various institutional roles, from the Senate to the presidency of the council. Eventually, I decided to transition to the private sector and start my consultancy work.

What do you find most rewarding about your role as a public affairs leader in Italy?

For me, it’s the impact of the work.

In public affairs, you’re doing something akin to politics, but without the direct measurement of public consensus. It’s about creating networks for clients and influencing legislative changes. The ability to see the tangible impact of your work – whether it’s promoting or preventing specific legislative outcomes – is incredibly fulfilling.

How do you approach diversity and inclusion in your organisation?

We’ve taken a proactive approach by appointing two diversity and inclusion managers – our directors of public affairs and media relations, who are both women.

Interestingly, our team naturally comprises 55% women and 45% men. This wasn’t because of a deliberate quota system, but rather the result of our focus on hiring and promoting based on quality.

What skills do you believe will be most valuable in public affairs in the coming years?

Aspiring public affairs professionals need to develop two critical skills. First, they must have vision – the ability to evaluate projects and client needs within the broader political and economic context. It’s about creating win-win scenarios that align client goals with the current political landscape.

Second, they need to master integrated approaches. Public affairs can no longer exist in isolation. It’s crucial to combine technical solutions with strategic communication, especially in countries like Italy where you often need to shape both the policy and political agendas.

What advice would you give to aspiring public affairs professionals?

My key advice is simple: be curious.

Develop a deep interest in political dynamics and truly understand how your clients work. Don’t just tick boxes or focus solely on your perspective. Instead, strive to understand the complete ecosystem – the client’s needs, the political context, and how to create mutual success.

It’s also worth noting that multinational companies offer excellent learning opportunities. Each has its unique way of working and fascinating stories. By remaining genuinely curious and open-minded, you can develop the insights needed to excel in public affairs.