Kiran Grover - Heathfield 1983 - 1994
Policy Adviser, Tourism Division

Consider a career in the Civil Service

Every time you open a newspaper or turn on the news, chances are you will read about, or see the Civil Service in action.  It is a far cry from suits, dusty offices and in-trays piled with paper.  We deal with the most important issues of the day, issues that influence the nation and beyond.  With 173 departments and agencies in all, employing nearly half a million people, civil servants carry out essential work in many areas like advising on pensions, investigating fraud or formulating the policy that drives nursery education.

I graduated in 1997 with a BA in History of Art and Archaeology from the School of Oriental and African Studies, University of London.  In 2000 I gained a MA in the same course.  An arts degree is one path into the civil service, as good communication skills are a vital part of the necessary skills for the work.  However, many degrees can be utilised within the government as there are numerous sectors.

My first posting was at the Golden Jubilee Office, planning and coordinating Her Majesty’s celebrations.  Working on the Golden Jubilee celebrations was very exciting, as a small team we built good bonds and all enjoyed the fast paced environment.  I a currently a Policy Adviser to Dr Kim Howells, the Minister for Tourism at the Department for Culture, Media and Sport.  I deal with a heavy caseload, working to tight deadlines drafting Ministerial briefing, Parliamentary Questions and correspondence as well as managing staff.  The civil service has allowed me to deal with high profile and interesting work.  I work proactively with a range of people often on a variety of complex and sensitive issues.

www.careers.civil-service.gov.uk is a comprehensive and helpful website.  I suggest that you gauge your interests and approach the most suitable departments.  Work experience and holiday visits can be organised with many departments, as well as graduate opportunities and the ‘Fast Stream’.  If you would like to contact me, you may do so through the Minerva website.