Salma Shah – A Powerful Journey of Influence, Success, and Challenges in Media, Politics, and Business
From Journalist to Policy Adviser and Corporate Leader, Salma Shah’s Inspiring Yet Demanding Career Path
Introduction
Salma Shah is a dynamic British professional who has made her mark in journalism, politics, consulting, and corporate leadership. Known for her strong communication skills, strategic insight, and ability to bridge sectors, she has become a respected figure in the UK’s media and policy landscape. Her career shows how influence can be built through resilience, storytelling, and leadership, while also highlighting the pressures and challenges of high-profile roles.
From producing programmes at the BBC to shaping government policies and serving on corporate boards, Salma Shah represents the power of diverse perspectives in traditionally exclusive spaces. Her journey reflects both the opportunities and obstacles faced by women of Asian descent rising to prominence in media and politics.
Quick Bio
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Ommasalma Shah (Salma Shah) |
| Date of Birth | July 1984 |
| Age | 41 (2025) |
| Nationality | British |
| Ethnicity | Asian descent |
| Education | BA (Hons), Journalism & Politics, University of Salford |
| Key Roles | BBC Journalist & Producer, Government Adviser, Partner at Portland, Director at Kraken Strategy, NED at Mitie |
| Board Roles | Mitie Group plc – ESG Chair, Nomination & Remuneration Committees |
| Business | Founder & Director, Kraken Strategy Ltd |
| CSaP | Policy Fellow alum, Advisory Council member |
| Legacy | Storytelling, diversity, cross-sector leadership |
Early Life and Education
Salma Shah was born in July 1984 and grew up with a strong interest in communication and politics. Her decision to pursue journalism and politics at the University of Salford shaped the foundation of her career. The degree combined her passion for media with the technical understanding of governance, giving her an edge in political reporting and advisory roles later on.
Education played a vital role in defining her path, preparing her to transition between sectors with confidence. Her academic background not only gave her journalistic skills but also trained her to analyze government systems, enabling her to excel in both fields.
Journalism Career – Building a Strong Foundation
Salma Shah began her professional career as a journalist and producer at the BBC, one of the UK’s most respected news organizations. She worked on major political programmes, including the flagship Today Programme on BBC Radio 4, which is known for its influential role in shaping public debate.
Her time as a journalist sharpened her ability to understand complex political issues and communicate them clearly to the public. This role also allowed her to build strong networks within politics and the media, relationships that later became crucial when she transitioned into government advisory positions.
Government Adviser – Shaping Policy and Strategy
In 2014, Salma Shah made the leap from media to government. She was appointed as a Special Adviser in several departments, including the Department for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport (DCMS), the Department for Business, Innovation & Skills (BIS), and the Ministry of Housing, Communities & Local Government (MHCLG).
Her most prominent government role came in 2018, when she became Special Adviser to the Home Secretary, Sajid Javid. In this high-pressure position, she played a central role in developing communication strategies, advising on political messaging, and managing critical policy issues. The experience highlighted her resilience and adaptability, proving her ability to thrive in demanding political environments.
Business Ventures – Establishing Kraken Strategy
After leaving government, Salma Shah entered the private sector. In 2019, she founded Kraken Strategy Ltd, a consultancy focused on communications and public affairs. The firm allowed her to use her experience from both media and politics to help organizations navigate complex communication challenges.
Her venture into entrepreneurship showcased her ability to lead independently and build a business rooted in trust, expertise, and strategy. As Director of Kraken Strategy, she became a recognized adviser to companies seeking to strengthen their reputations and government relations.
Corporate Leadership – Non-Executive Director at Mitie
In April 2022, Salma Shah was appointed as an Independent Non-Executive Director at Mitie Group plc, a leading facilities management and professional services company in the UK. In this role, she chairs the ESG Committee and serves on both the Nomination and Remuneration Committees.
Her work at Mitie highlights her commitment to sustainability, governance, and ethical business practices. She is often described as a “NED to Watch,” recognized for bringing diversity, independence, and a strong strategic voice to the corporate boardroom.
Media and Political Commentary
Salma Shah continues to be active as a political commentator and columnist. She contributes regularly to The Independent and appears on BBC, Channel 4, ITV, and The Guardian to provide expert analysis on political developments.
Her background as both a journalist and a government adviser gives her commentary credibility and depth. She bridges the gap between the media and politics, offering audiences valuable insights that are both accessible and informed by real-world experience.
CSaP – Contribution to Policy and Science
Salma Shah is also involved with the Centre for Science and Policy (CSaP) at the University of Cambridge. She is a Policy Fellow alum and was appointed to the CSaP Advisory Council in 2025.
Her role at CSaP reflects her continued commitment to bridging communication between government, academia, and business. She contributes to discussions on resilience, diversity, and policy innovation, strengthening her reputation as a thought leader in shaping future governance.
Legacy and Impact
Salma Shah’s legacy is defined by her cross-sector influence. She has successfully transitioned from journalist to government adviser, entrepreneur, and corporate leader, proving that diverse experiences can fuel long-term success.
She is also recognized as a champion of diversity and inclusion, bringing new perspectives to leadership and breaking barriers for women of Asian descent in British public life. Her emphasis on storytelling has become her signature skill, enabling her to influence in both media and boardrooms.
Conclusion
Salma Shah’s career is a powerful example of how adaptability, communication, and resilience can create lasting influence. From her early work as a journalist to her roles in government, business, and corporate governance, she has demonstrated a unique ability to shape narratives and policies. While her journey reflects great success, it also underscores the challenges of navigating public life, where scrutiny and pressure are constant.
Her continuing work at Mitie, Kraken Strategy, and the University of Cambridge’s CSaP positions her as an influential figure whose impact will continue to grow. Salma Shah’s story is one of strength, diversity, and leadership in action.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: Who is Salma Shah?
Salma Shah is a British journalist, former government adviser, entrepreneur, and corporate board member. She is the founder of Kraken Strategy Ltd and a Non-Executive Director at Mitie Group plc.
Q2: What is Salma Shah’s educational background?
She holds a BA (Hons) in Journalism and Politics from the University of Salford.
Q3: What roles did she hold in UK government?
She served as a Special Adviser in multiple departments and later became Special Adviser to Home Secretary Sajid Javid.
Q4: What businesses is she involved in?
She is the Director of Kraken Strategy Ltd and serves on the board of Mitie Group plc.
Q5: What is her role at CSaP?
Salma Shah is a Policy Fellow alum and a member of the CSaP Advisory Council at the University of Cambridge.
