The Unofficial Guides

  • Opening doors to the Civil Service: Carole’s story

    Who I Am I’m Carole Lovstrom, Head of Ministerial Affairs in the Department for Transport and pleased to be asked to write a blog for Nathan, author of the Unofficial Civil Service Guide. I have worked in local office, head office, IT, HR, and Project Delivery, and I have to say it is my team…

    The Unofficial Guides

  • Breaking Barriers: Teslimah’s Journey into to Civil Service Success

    Meet Tesmilah My name is Teslimah Abubakar. I am care experienced and I’m motivated by connecting with like-minded people, learning new skills and advocating for systematic improvements for care experienced individuals. I have been part of the civil service since 2022. Before the Civil Service Before joining the civil service, I studied media production at…

    The Unofficial Guides

  • From events to HM Treasury: Elijah’s Journey into the Civil Service

    Elijah is pursuing a career in international security, currently studying Global Security and Strategy. With a background in economics and experience in the entertainment industry, he launched a non-profit for youth employment. Now working at HM Treasury, he emphasizes the importance of networking and adaptability within the dynamic Civil Service.

    The Unofficial Guides

  • From Military to Civil Service: My Career Journey

    I’m Bradley, a Senior Programme Manager in the Civil Service. My role involves delivering complex projects that impact the public sector. I’m passionate about problem-solving, collaboration, and driving change. The Civil Service offers diverse opportunities, and I enjoy seeing the tangible impact of my work every day. The Path That Led Me Here Before joining…

    The Unofficial Guides

  • How to Stand Out in Your Civil Service Career

    Last month, I had the opportunity to share my journey as a civil servant with prospective and current public sector professionals. Reflecting on my decade of experience in the UK Government, I realised that my lessons are just as relevant today as they were when I started. The Civil Service is a place where impact…

    The Unofficial Guides

  • The opportunities are out there – seize them!

    By Anna Ogilby, People Development Lead at the UK Health Security Agency Who are you and how long have you been a civil servant?  I’m Anna, I live in East Yorkshire with my 4 daughters. I have been in the Civil Service for nearly 9 years now. What were you doing before you became a…

    The Unofficial Guides

  • The 3 Lessons You Need to Learn About the Civil Service

    By Harry Phinda, former civil servant in the Cabinet Office & Home Office Last month, I had the opportunity to share some of my experiences as a former Policy Advisor in government with prospective and current civil servants. Having navigated the Civil Service myself, I know firsthand how challenging the journey can be. Here are…

    The Unofficial Guides

  • How to Succeed in the Civil Service: Fiona Reynolds’ Journey

    Fiona Reynolds, Deputy Regional Director – Office of Health Improvement and Disparities Who are you and how long have you been a civil servant? My name is Fiona Reynolds and I’m Deputy Regional Director with the Office of Health Improvement and Disparities (part of DHSC). I’ve been with the Civil Service since 2020 and prior…

    The Unofficial Guides