Introduction
Public affairs is a career that attracts graduates who are passionate about politics, policy and communication. It offers the chance to shape debates, influence decisions and work with organisations that want to engage government, parliament and stakeholders.
But how do you turn an interest in politics into a lasting career? What does the journey from a graduate to a public affairs director look like?
This guide will break down each stage of progression in public affairs and show you how to build the experience, skills and network you need to reach the top.
Entry Level: Graduate and Account Executive
Most people begin their careers in public affairs in junior agency roles such as Account Executive or in policy roles at trade associations, charities or membership bodies.
At this stage, your focus is on:
- Research and monitoring: Tracking parliamentary activity, producing briefing notes and keeping clients informed.
- Administration: Supporting senior colleagues, managing databases, helping with events.
- Foundational skills: Writing clearly, demonstrating political awareness, and showing enthusiasm.
Tips for success at this stage:
- Learn how to write short, sharp briefings.
- Stay up to date with political news every day.
- Show willingness to take on tasks and support the team.
Mid-Level: Account Manager and Policy Adviser
After two to four years, you can expect to move into roles such as Account Manager in an agency or Policy Adviser in-house. This is where you begin to take ownership of projects.
Responsibilities at this stage include:
- Managing client accounts or policy portfolios.
- Leading on stakeholder engagement, including meeting MPs, civil servants and external partners.
- Producing policy reports, consultation responses and campaign materials.
- Supporting and mentoring junior colleagues.
How to progress:
- Build confidence in client or stakeholder meetings.
- Develop a specialism (for example, health, tech, financial services).
- Take every opportunity to present your work and gain visibility.
Senior Level: Account Director and Head of Public Affairs
The next step is moving into senior leadership roles where you are trusted to lead relationships and bring in new business. In agencies, this is typically Account Director. In membership bodies, charities or corporates, it may be Head of Public Affairs or Head of Policy.
Your responsibilities will include:
- Leading strategy for clients or your organisation.
- Developing networks across Westminster, Whitehall and industry.
- Pitching for and winning new business (in agencies).
- Representing your organisation at the highest level.
- Managing teams and shaping careers of junior staff.
Key skills to develop here:
- Strong commercial awareness.
- The ability to translate political developments into clear advice.
- Leadership and people management.
Director Level: Public Affairs Director or Director of Communications
Reaching director level means you are responsible for the overall direction of a public affairs function. You will be a trusted adviser to CEOs and senior leaders, and in agencies you may sit on the board.
At this level, your work includes:
- Setting strategic direction and long-term campaigns.
- Representing organisations at the most senior political and industry levels.
- Managing budgets and resources.
- Building new service offerings and growing the business.
- Acting as a mentor and role model for the profession.
How to thrive:
- Keep learning — politics and policy never stand still.
- Maintain a wide network and stay active in industry associations.
- Be adaptable: the best directors combine policy expertise, political judgement and commercial acumen.
Skills You Need at Every Stage
- Political awareness: A constant ability to interpret political developments.
- Communication: Writing, speaking and presenting with clarity.
- Networking: Building and maintaining professional relationships.
- Resilience: Public affairs is fast-moving and often high-pressure.
- Adaptability: The political landscape shifts quickly — flexibility is key.
Routes Into Public Affairs
There is no single route into public affairs. Many professionals start in:
- Parliamentary offices (as MPs’ researchers or caseworkers).
- Think tanks or campaign groups.
- Graduate schemes in agencies or representative bodies.
What matters most is demonstrating political understanding, communication skills and a genuine interest in policy.
Final Thoughts
Building a career in public affairs is a journey that rewards persistence, curiosity and networking. From your first graduate role to a director position, every stage requires you to grow your skills, expand your knowledge and take on more responsibility.
If you are starting out, focus on building strong foundations — clear writing, political knowledge and a willingness to learn. As you progress, look for opportunities to lead, specialise and develop commercial awareness.
A career in public affairs can be highly rewarding for those who are passionate about politics and want to influence real change.
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