A policy advisor works within government departments, think tanks, charities, or large organisations to help shape public policy. Their main tasks include researching issues, analysing data, developing policy proposals, and advising decision-makers on the potential impacts of different policy options. Policy advisors often consult with experts, stakeholders, and members of the public to gather information and feedback. They also write reports, briefings, and recommendations to support ministers or senior managers. This role requires strong analytical skills, excellent written and verbal communication, and the ability to work with complex information. Policy advisors often specialise in specific areas such as health, education, environment, or social policy.
Policy advisors in the UK typically earn between £28,000 and £55,000 per year, with senior roles reaching up to £70,000.
There are approximately 15,000 people in policy advisory roles across UK government departments and public sector organisations.
Demand for policy advisors is expected to grow by around 5 percent over the next five years, particularly in areas such as healthcare, environment, and education.
Works with government or health organisations to develop policies that improve healthcare services and public health outcomes.
Focuses on creating and reviewing policies related to environmental protection, climate change, and sustainable development.
Specialises in advising on policies that impact schools, colleges, and the wider education sector, aiming to improve educational standards and access.
Obtain good GCSEs and A-levels, ideally in subjects like Politics, History, Economics, or Social Sciences.
Focusing on subjects that develop analytical and writing skills is helpful. Universities and employers value a strong academic background, so aim for high grades and consider taking part in essay competitions or debate clubs.
Earn a degree, often in Politics, International Relations, Public Policy, Law or a related subject.
Many policy advisors have a university degree, and some roles may require postgraduate study. Look for courses with modules on public policy, research methods, or government. Some universities offer placement years or internships in relevant organisations.
Undertake internships, voluntary roles or work placements with government departments, think tanks, charities, or NGOs.
Hands-on experience is highly valued. Look for summer internships or short-term placements. Volunteering for local councillors or MPs, or joining university societies related to politics or policy, can also help you build your CV.
Work on projects or roles that require gathering, analysing, and presenting information.
Policy advisors must be excellent researchers. Practise reading reports, summarising findings, and presenting recommendations. Part-time roles, university research projects, or student journalism can help you hone these skills.
Look for positions such as Policy Assistant, Junior Policy Officer, or Researcher in relevant organisations.
Entry-level roles often involve supporting senior advisors, drafting briefing notes, and attending meetings. Tailor your CV to highlight your research and communication skills. Use job sites like Civil Service Jobs, charity job boards, or LinkedIn.
Attend events, join professional bodies, and connect with others in the policy sector.
Networking can help you learn about new opportunities and stay up to date with sector trends. Consider joining the Chartered Institute of Public Relations or the Institute for Government. Conferences, seminars, and policy forums are also useful.
Pursue further training, qualifications, or a postgraduate degree to progress to senior policy roles.
Many policy advisors go on to lead teams or specialise in specific policy areas. Attending workshops, completing relevant short courses, or studying for a Masters in Public Policy can help you advance. Stay informed about changes in legislation and policy.
Explore relevant apprenticeships that can help you kickstart your career in Policy Advisor. Apprenticeships offer hands-on experience and training while earning a wage.
A Policy Advisor and a Civil Service executive officer both typically work within government or public sector organisations, providing expert advice on policies and ensuring their implementation. Both roles require strong understanding of public policies, regulation, and the ability to communicate complex information effectively.
You can get into this job through:
You could apply to join the Civil Service after doing a foundation degree, higher national diploma or degree, although a university qualification is not essential.
The Summer Internship Programme and the Civil Service Care Leavers Internship Scheme, offer undergraduates an insight into working in the Civil Service.
You'll usually need:
You could apply for a place on a higher or degree level apprenticeship with the Civil Service.
The apprenticeship you work towards will depend on the role and business area you work in.
You'll usually need:
You could start as an administrative officer. After gaining experience, you could apply for a post as an executive officer when vacancies become available.
You can apply directly for jobs. You'll be expected to have relevant work or life experience to do this.
You'll be assessed on your skills, knowledge and behaviours that fit in with the values of the Civil Service, as part of the application process.
If you're a graduate or in your final year of university, you can apply for a place on the Fast Stream scheme. Competition for places is very strong, so a degree with a higher grade and work experience will help you.
Your degree can be in any subject, though some Civil Service departments may prefer a degree in a subject that is relevant to their work, for example science and engineering.
Movement to Work offers work experience opportunities in the Civil Service for unemployed young people.
You can find out more about working in the Civil Service from Civil Service Careers.
Explore other careers or use our AI to discover personalised paths based on your interests.
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