Thomas Barros-Tastets’ lobbying activities at Flint Global are characterized by high-level engagement with EU policymakers, regulators, and stakeholders to advance client interests. As Flint’s managing partner for Europe, he leads efforts to influence EU policy on behalf of clients facing regulatory and competition challenges.
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Strategic Political Engagement: Coordinating Flint’s European operations to deliver integrated government affairs advice, ensuring clients’ messages are effectively communicated to EU institutions such as the European Commission, European Parliament, and Council of the EU.
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Regulatory and Competition Advocacy: Providing expert guidance on EU competition law and regulatory frameworks, particularly in sectors like energy, digital, and financial services. Barros-Tastets has a track record of advising clients on navigating EU competition investigations and merger clearances.
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Meetings with EU Officials: While specific meeting records are not publicly detailed, his role requires frequent interactions with key EU policymakers and regulators. Past associations with GPlus involved meetings with high-level officials, including Russian Energy Minister Aleksandr Novak during EU gas negotiations, demonstrating his experience in facilitating complex political dialogues.
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Influence on Policy Outcomes: Flint’s influence under Barros-Tastets has been noted in the context of Brexit-related market adjustments and regulatory adaptations, helping UK-based clients maintain access and compliance within the EU. His leadership in expanding Flint’s presence in Brussels and Paris reflects a proactive approach to shaping policy environments favorable to UK and European clients.
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Network Building: Barros-Tastets has been instrumental in Flint’s “Phase 2” expansion strategy, aiming to replicate the firm’s successful London model across European capitals. This includes fostering relationships with former EU officials, industry leaders, and other lobbyists to create a robust advocacy platform for clients.
Overall, his lobbying is marked by a combination of regulatory expertise, strategic communications, and high-level political networking designed to secure advantageous outcomes for Flint’s clients, many of whom are UK-based or have significant UK interests in the EU market