Head of firm founded by Mandelson to quit

Benjamin Wegg-Prosser, the co-founder and chief executive of the strategic advisory firm Global Counsel, announced his resignation from the company in London this week following concerns that his long-standing association with Lord Mandelson and their collective appearance in the Jeffrey Epstein files were damaging the firm's reputation. The move comes as the consultancy seeks to distance itself from the persistent scrutiny surrounding its founders' historical links to the disgraced financier. Wegg-Prosser, who has led the firm since its inception, determined that a change in leadership was necessary to protect the business interests and future growth of the organization. The decision marks a significant turning point for Global Counsel, a firm that has wielded considerable influence in political and corporate circles since it was established in 2010. For years, the professional relationship between Wegg-Prosser and Peter Mandelson—a former UK cabinet minister and European Commissioner—has been the cornerstone of the agency’s success. However, the recurring mentions of both men in documents related to Jeffrey Epstein’s private flights and social circles have created a persistent PR challenge that reportedly began to alienate potential clients and institutional partners. Industry analysts suggest that Wegg-Prosser’s departure is a calculated attempt at "rebranding by proxy," allowing the firm to signal a fresh start while Lord Mandelson remains a high-profile, albeit controversial, figure within the British establishment. While no illegal conduct has been proven regarding their presence in the Epstein files, the negative associations have proven too heavy a burden for a firm that trades on reputation and high-level trust. The firm is now expected to undergo a management restructuring to stabilize its market position and reassure its international client base.