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Applying civil service roles- Policy Advisor or Strategy Advisor

Hi guys, I am looking to apply for a job within the civil service. However, I am unsure about which position would be better out of a Policy Advisor or Strategy Advisor. Which one will have better career prospects for a graduate? Thanks.

Reply 1

pjm600

These are two different roles, although there is cross over between them. Generally, a policy advisor works with a distinct policy whereas a strategy advisor deals with long term planning. For example, a policy advisor is likely to work on regulations, regs consultations, and delivery whereas a strategy advisor likely has more to do with strategy documents and plans. One is not nessecarily better than the other. Each suits different types of people as results/impact is usually shorter term in policy. They have about the same progression opportunities, probably more posts in policy whereas strategy is a bit more niche. Choosing one now doesn't limit you to that for life. It's likely most strategy people have / will also work in a policy team.