The Unofficial Guides

  • Civil Service Career Spotlight: How Mel Hume Built an 18-Year Civil Service Career

    Who I am I find myself 18 years deep into my Civil Service career, spending most of those years in HMRC before moving to the Department for Education (DfE) last year. I have always been strongly motivated by societal outcomes – I firmly believe Civil Servants are the backbone of a well-functioning society. The Path…

    The Unofficial Guides

  • Career Spotlight: How Ruqaiya Isa Built a 29-Year Civil Service Career

    Who I Am I am a Chartered Project Professional with 29 years in the Civil Service. Mentoring, raising mental health awareness, and volunteering as an NHS Responder are really important to me. Balancing my career and family life with three daughters is something I’m incredibly proud of, and it’s what keeps me motivated. The Path…

    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

  • 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