James Cooper is the visionary Founder and Director of Ascendant Communications, a leading UK-based B2B technology public relations consultancy that has been delivering strategic communications solutions since its inception in 2003. With more than two decades of experience spanning both agency and in-house roles, Cooper has become a respected figure in the world of technology PR, guiding global brands through the evolving media landscape with a focus on results-driven, senior-led execution. Under his leadership, Ascendant Communications has built a strong reputation for excellence, working with a wide array of high-profile clients including Microsoft, SAP, IBM, Akamai, TIBCO, and VMware, among others.

James Cooper established Ascendant with a bold vision: to provide an alternative to the traditional, hierarchical PR agency model by assembling a team of senior-level consultants who could deliver strategic insights, continuity, and deep sector expertise without the layers of junior staff often found in larger firms. This distinctive approach has been central to Ascendant’s success and has allowed the firm to build long-term client relationships grounded in trust, transparency, and measurable impact. From its headquarters in Twickenham, Ascendant operates with a nimble team of seasoned professionals who bring their collective knowledge to every client interaction, ensuring that communications strategies are thoughtful, targeted, and tailored to the unique needs of B2B technology companies.

Cooper’s leadership style is marked by a strong commitment to excellence, collaboration, and clarity of purpose. He believes in the power of communication to not only elevate brand visibility but to shape perception, foster trust, and influence decision-making in complex, competitive markets. At Ascendant, he has cultivated a culture of integrity, innovation, and intellectual rigor—qualities that resonate with the firm’s clients and stakeholders. Whether guiding a start-up through its launch phase, supporting a scale-up as it expands internationally, or helping an established enterprise reposition itself in a rapidly changing market, Cooper brings a strategic lens and a hands-on approach that ensures each initiative delivers tangible value.

Ascendant’s core services encompass media relations, analyst relations, content creation, crisis communications, thought leadership, digital strategy, and integrated campaigns. The firm’s ability to blend traditional PR techniques with modern digital tools sets it apart in a crowded marketplace. Cooper understands that in today’s environment, effective communication is no longer just about press releases or media placements—it’s about telling a compelling story across platforms and touchpoints, engaging with influencers and analysts, and delivering messages that align with business outcomes. Under his guidance, Ascendant helps its clients navigate this complexity with agility and precision.

A hallmark of Cooper’s leadership is his relentless focus on outcomes. He emphasizes the importance of aligning PR strategies with business goals, whether that means supporting revenue growth, driving partner engagement, attracting investment, or influencing regulatory stakeholders. This results-oriented mindset has earned Ascendant accolades including recognition as a "Top 20 PR Agency" by B2B Marketing, and consistent praise from clients who value the firm’s strategic insights, proactive engagement, and unwavering dedication to excellence.

Cooper’s career began in the fast-paced world of U.S. tech firms, where he held several leadership positions before transitioning into the agency landscape. This early exposure to the demands of enterprise technology marketing provided him with a unique perspective on what clients truly need from their PR partners. It also shaped his belief that deep industry understanding, coupled with clear and consistent communication, is key to building lasting client relationships. He brings this philosophy to every project at Ascendant, championing a consultancy model that is agile, informed, and focused on results.

In addition to his work with clients, James Cooper is an active thought leader in the communications and B2B marketing space. He regularly contributes insights on industry trends, emerging technologies, and best practices for public relations in the digital age. He is a frequent speaker at industry conferences and has been featured in publications that highlight leading voices in tech PR. His perspective is grounded in experience but always future-focused, offering practical guidance on how brands can stay relevant and competitive in a world of constant change.

Cooper is also deeply committed to mentoring the next generation of communications professionals. He believes in fostering talent and creating opportunities for young PR practitioners to learn, grow, and excel in their careers. At Ascendant, he has built a collaborative and inclusive environment that encourages continuous learning, innovation, and professional development. His leadership not only drives business success but also inspires those around him to achieve their full potential.

Through Ascendant, James Cooper has helped shape the communications strategies of some of the most influential companies in the technology sector. His ability to connect the dots between business strategy, industry trends, and media narratives has made him a trusted advisor to executives, marketers, and entrepreneurs alike. He is known for his clarity of thought, strategic insight, and ability to distill complex ideas into compelling stories that resonate with diverse audiences.

Looking ahead, Cooper remains focused on scaling Ascendant’s impact and continuing to evolve its offerings in response to changing client needs and industry dynamics. He envisions a future where communications is not a function that operates in isolation, but a strategic pillar that drives enterprise value, fosters customer engagement, and strengthens organizational resilience. He is committed to ensuring that Ascendant continues to lead from the front, delivering communications strategies that are as agile and innovative as the technologies they support.

In a world where trust is paramount and attention is fleeting, James Cooper’s work through Ascendant Communications exemplifies the power of thoughtful, strategic, and authentic communication. By staying true to his founding principles while continually adapting to new challenges and opportunities, he has built a consultancy that not only delivers results but also shapes the future of B2B technology public relations.