Europe Analytica Mourns the Passing of Co-Founder Douglas Herbison

We are deeply saddened to announce the sudden passing of Douglas Herbison on 9 April, co-founder of Europe Analytica in 1999 together with Angela Mills Wade and David Bennett.

Douglas Herbison was a pioneer in European public affairs, playing a defining role in bringing UK industries into direct and constructive dialogue with the European Commission and Members of the European Parliament. His work helped shape Europe Analytica into a trusted bridge between business and policymakers in Brussels.

Over the course of his distinguished career, Douglas held a number of senior leadership roles across the European policy landscape. He served as Chief Executive of AMDEA from 2006 until his retirement, leading the association’s strategic direction, policy development, and engagement with government and industry.

Prior to this, he was Managing Director of Herbison European Affairs, his own consultancy specialising in European technical and economic issues, where he oversaw major projects including securing a seven-year extension for duty-free sales in Europe and was European Affairs Advisor to the Motion Picture Association of America.

Earlier in his career, he was Chief Executive of the European Urban Institute, promoting British expertise internationally, and held key positions as Manager of European Operations at the British Retail Consortium and Secretary General of CECD, the European retail trade organisation he co-founded, now known as EuroCommerce.

Douglas also advised British Government ministers on political and economic matters, reflecting the breadth of his expertise and the respect he commanded across sectors. He stood as a candidate in both British and European Parliamentary elections, campaigned at six elections over 30 years and for seven years served as a locally elected councillor, including as Vice-Chair of the Planning and Economic Development Committees of Motherwell District Council. During his time at the European Urban Institute, he worked with cities across Europe, including Dublin, Vlissingen and London, as well as with Russian cities under the TACIS programme.

He will be remembered for his insight, integrity, and commitment to ensuring that industry voices were heard at the heart of European decision-making. He also brought warmth, generosity, and a distinctive sense of humour, along with a fine appreciation of Italian food and wine, to all those who had the privilege of working with him.

Fluent in Italian, Douglas was born in 1951 and was educated at the British School in Rome and held a BSc (Econ) from the University of London. He was also an experienced private pilot.

Our thoughts are with his family and loved ones at this difficult time.