We are The Gandalf Group
Smart. Strategic. Strong.Principals David Herle and Alex Swann provide the support you require when you’re facing a moment of decision. When your C-suite needs loyal, trusted counsel because you simply cannot afford to get it wrong. When you absolutely need to get it right.
Our Services
Effective communications strategies and messages do not come out of the blue sky. They come from a deep, research driven understanding of your audience and what will move them. We offer research and strategic advice in crisis management, brand development, policy advocacy, corporate or industry reputation management, issues management and communications.
Our Team
David P. Herle, LL.B
Principal Partner
Long-time strategist and pollster, known simply as Herle to many, loves all things music and sports but nothing fills his heart more than his Border Collie, Ryder (gleefully named after the Saskatchewan Roughriders). His unique laugh pierces most boardroom walls and his stature makes it easy to find him in a crowd. His podcast, The Herle Burly, is one of Canada’s leading public affairs pods and can be found at www.theherleburly.com.
Alex Swann
Principal Partner
Alex has worked as a consultant and researcher for a range of clients for almost fifteen years, helping them to problem-solve or understand more about their business. Previously, he spent nearly a decade in government and politics, where he earned his specialization as a generalist. He enjoys puns, baseball and any day he can learn alongside clients who face interesting challenges or want to answer important questions. With a background in communications, and having worked for organizations both large and small, he can turn lessons learned into actionable strategies.
Video Podcast Series: Through the Looking Glass – Race in Canada
Hosted by David Herle, this video podcast series takes us through the looking glass of a focus group boardroom and into the minds of everyday people exposing and explaining the forces that shape our opinions.
Ontario Youth Anxiously Optimistic About Their Future
We surveyed 1,500 Ontarians aged 16 to 30 from May to June 2020. The study found the majority, even those who had lost jobs or income, were optimistic their financial situation would improve within a year. This optimism is qualified however in other areas - a rising...