Nitipoom Nawarat, 46, has proved versatile. He is both a lecturer and a flamboyant media man. He taught English and international relations at college level before becoming the so-called page-two columnist of the mass-circulation newspaper Thai Rath about 10 years ago. He also chairs many organisations related to public relations and trade.

Nitipoom is frequently courted by politicians of all colours because of his high visibility through his popular TV programmes and newspaper columns. He has also travelled widely around the world to host his TV talk show, particularly in Africa, where he has led many trade delegations. He currently chairs the Thai-Nigeria Chamber of Commerce.

He has been listed as an adviser to many well-known politicians, such as General Chavalit Yongchaiyudh, Khunying Sudarat Keyuraphan and Samak Sundaravej.

His latest advisory role is helping the Bangkok Metropolitan Authority to promote the capital.