Ben Elliott

In June 2011, Ben Elliott co-founded Quintessentially, a luxury concierge service that catered to some of the most influential and wealthy individuals across the globe. The company was headquartered in London and quickly grew to become a well-recognized brand associated with luxury and exclusivity. Its business model focused on providing lifestyle management, personal services, and access to exclusive cultural experiences. With a network spanning multiple countries, Quintessentially became a symbol of status among its clientele. As co-founder, Elliott's role involved steering the company through a competitive market and expanding its international reach.

On May 14, 2014, Ben Elliott launched the Quintessentially Foundation, the philanthropic arm of his luxury concierge service, Quintessentially. The foundation was established to channel funds and support to various charitable causes, leveraging the network and influence of Quintessentially's clientele. Its mission was to work closely with global charities and engage in fundraising activities aimed at making a positive social impact in areas such as education, cultural development, and disaster relief. Elliott's initiative received praise for mobilizing luxury resources towards social responsibility and philanthropy.

On October 18, 2016, Ben Elliott was embroiled in controversy over fundraising techniques used by Quintessentially and associated entities. Reports indicated that exclusive events and access were offered to donors in ways that raised ethical questions. Elliott's methods were criticized by some for potentially blurring lines between business interests and charity engagements. These issues fed into broader debates about transparency and accountability in nonprofit operations, especially when linked to influential figures in both business and politics. The controversy showcased the challenges of maintaining ethical standards amidst elite networks.

In November 2017, Ben Elliott's business activities with Quintessentially were scrutinized in connection with a controversy involving Philip May, the husband of then-Prime Minister Theresa May. It was reported that Elliott helped arrange an event attended by elite donors and associates, raising questions about his influence and the connections between business and political spheres. Critics were concerned about transparency and the ethical implications of such gatherings. This event highlighted ongoing debates about the intersection of private enterprise and public service, culminating in a larger discussion about accountability and influence in British politics.

On July 24, 2019, Ben Elliott, a prominent British businessman and philanthropist, was appointed as the co-chairman of the Conservative Party by Prime Minister Boris Johnson. His appointment was part of a broader reshuffle aimed at strengthening the party's leadership in preparation for an anticipated general election. Elliott, known for his successes in business, was expected to bring expertise in fundraising and networking to the role. However, his business interests, particularly his founding role in the concierge service Quintessentially, soon attracted scrutiny over potential conflicts between his commercial and political activities.

During the December 12, 2019, UK general election, Ben Elliott played a pivotal role as the co-chairman of the Conservative Party. Under his co-chairmanship, the Conservative Party secured a significant victory, achieving a majority government under Prime Minister Boris Johnson. Elliott's background in entrepreneurship and fundraising was considered instrumental in revitalizing the party's campaign and contributing to its electoral success. This period marked a high point in Elliott's political career, though it also drew increased attention to the implications of his dual roles in business and politics.

In March 2020, as the COVID-19 pandemic spread globally, Ben Elliott mobilized the resources and network of the Quintessentially Foundation to raise funds for pandemic relief efforts. The foundation focused on supporting frontline workers and providing essential supplies to those in need. Elliott's efforts were part of a larger community response among businesses and philanthropic organizations to address the unprecedented challenges posed by the pandemic. His initiatives highlighted the role of private sector involvement in public health crises, as well as the impact of philanthropy in times of global emergencies.

In August 2020, Ben Elliott faced mounting pressure over his role as the co-chairman of the Conservative Party following the release of the Russia report by the UK Parliament. The report raised concerns about the extent of Russian influence in British politics, including connections between Russian oligarchs and political donations. Elliott was directly challenged due to his fundraising activities and the perceived opacity around donor backgrounds. The situation prompted urgent calls for reforms to the party's funding policies and scrutiny over Elliott's position and actions as co-chairman of the party.

Ben Elliott, co-chairman of the UK Conservative Party, resigned from his position on 16th July 2021. His resignation came amid pressure due to the scrutiny over his business interests and their potential conflict with his political responsibilities. As the co-founder of the luxury concierge service Quintessentially, concerns were raised about how his business connections were influencing his political role, potentially allowing privileged access to donors. This situation created significant controversy and calls for transparency within the party.

In September 2022, Ben Elliott's significant influence within the Conservative Party was once again evident as he was involved in the leadership race following Boris Johnson's resignation as Prime Minister. Elliott's role during this transition period was to ensure fundraising and support for potential candidates. His prominent position as a political fundraiser and strategist within the party meant that his backing was crucial for any leadership contender looking to secure the necessary financial and political support. This involvement underscored Elliott's continuing influence and the contentious nature of political finance in the UK.