Network PARI

The PARI (Public Affairs and Institutional Relations) Network was created as a response to the almost complete absence in Italy of spaces for reflection on the management of the public affairs function. It is designed for companies, institutions, trade associations, and nonprofit organizations interested in creating a space for dialogue and skill development in the field of institutional relations. The Network is evolving into a true community of professionals. Its goal is to explore and compare the effectiveness of models and tools for managing the corporate function responsible for relations with policymakers and regulators.

While there are various occasions for discussing the role, competencies, and professional paths, there is a lack—unlike in other countries—of specific debate on the corporate dimension of this function and the management issues related to it, such as: 

• The role of the public affairs function in strategic planning
• Criteria for choosing between make (in-house professionals) and buy (external specialists)
• The choice between internalizing expertise and outsourcing to specialists.
• Organizational structure and placement within the company.
• Budget-setting criteria.
• Metrics for monitoring and evaluating results
• Issues related to recruiting and developing personnel in the public affairs function
• Incentives for public affairs personnel 
• Differences in decision-making processes and institutional culture between Italy and other countries and the implications for designing the public affairs function 
• Coordination of public affairs in sectors with multi-level governance (State and Regions, or European Union and Member States)
• Principles for coalition building and role distribution among stakeholders with converging interests
• Models for effective collaboration between companies and trade associations in public affairs activities

Despite significant progress in the professionalism of the public affairs function, conscious management of the choices that influence its effectiveness—particularly in terms of alignment with corporate strategic priorities—remains overlooked. It is therefore essential to promote the dissemination of best practices and the identification of significant innovations.

The PARI Network – Public Affairs and Institutional Relations – offers an opportunity for dialogue and in-depth exploration, supported by SDA Bocconi research, aimed at developing relevant knowledge and skills in the field.