Bärbel Hestert-Vecoli is a public affairs and communications strategist, creative thinker and an expert for lobbying and corporate citizenship. As Managing Director she leads the national public affairs business of the communications agency BCW (Burson Cohn & Wolfe) in Germany and advises a broad range of companies and public institutions in political communications, campaigning and public affairs.

With more than 18 years of professional experience Bärbel has directed many successful and award winning public affairs programs and campaigns for German and international clients from a very broad range of industries. She is a strong advocated for integrated and innovative communications, thoughtful political brand activism and innovative approaches to policy finding and political communications.

Prior to joining BCW, Bärbel worked for Weber Shandwick (Interpublic Group of Companies) for more than 16 years, last as Head of Public Affairs in Berlin. As a guest lecturer she is teaching Public Relations at the University of Applied Sciences of Hannover. Bärbel studied in Munster, Berlin and Rome and graduated with a Master of Arts in Philosophy and Literary Studies.