Mindset and mission were at the heart of our recent career conversation with Justin Russell, a seasoned public servant with decades of experience across the Civil Service. As the first senior guest in the Unofficial Guides event series, Justin offered a candid and generous account of his journey – from academic beginnings to strategy roles in central government and the lessons he has learned along the way.

Here are three stand-out insights for anyone navigating or considering a career in public service:

1. Start with your values, not a plan

“I didn’t plan to join the Civil Service. I just followed what mattered to me.”

Justin’s first job in government was sparked by a Home Office advert, not a strategic career plan. He had been pursuing a PhD, but his passion for race relations policy led him to apply for a research role instead. This theme- of choosing based on values, not just roles- has guided his career since.

Even as he moved across departments and sectors, his decisions were always rooted in where he felt he could make the most significant contribution.

Justin’s advice:

• Reflect on what issues energise you most.
• Use values as a filter for opportunities, not just titles.
• Revisit your “why” before your next career move.
• Don’t wait for a master plan – follow the work that matters.

2. Accept that careers aren’t linear

“I stepped away and came back. That pattern kept working for me.”

Justin joined the Civil Service through a research route at the Home Office, then stepped into the charity sector, before returning multiple times in new roles. This ebb and flow was deliberate. He described it as a chance to reset and refocus, especially when policy burnout or institutional inertia began to creep in.

He has held posts in No. 10, the DfE, and independent oversight bodies sometimes in permanent jobs, sometimes as a seconded official. Variety, he said, gave him perspective.

Justin’s advice:

• See sideways moves as strategic, not setbacks.
• Consider secondments for variety and visibility.
• Reflect regularly: Is this still the work you want to do?
• Don’t fear re-entry- skills gained outside add value inside.
  

3. Build resilience through reflection

“There were times I felt done. But stepping back helped me come back clearer.”

Justin spoke openly about burnout and the decision to step back from demanding SCS roles. Instead of pushing through, he paused and rebalanced, later returning with more clarity and less ego. Today, he balances part-time advisory work with mentoring and research.

That recalibration, he noted, isn’t just for late-career stages. He encouraged attendees to take stock of their progress early and often.

Justin’s advice:

• Treat burnout as a signal, not a failing.
• Explore portfolio careers if your energy shifts.
• Use journaling or peer chats to process career shifts.
• Remember: resilience includes rest.

Conclusion: Purposeful careers are rarely perfect ones

Justin’s reflections reminded us that even senior leaders grapple with doubt, pace, and purpose. What sets them apart isn’t superhuman stamina, but the ability to reflect, reset, and grow through values-driven decisions.

If you’re navigating your own Civil Service path, helping others do so, start by asking what you care about. The rest can follow.

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