Case studies: Account Manager: Lucy

Lucy has an MA in Public Affairs and Lobbying from Brunel University and works as an account manager for Connect Communications.

I first came across public affairs as a profession whilst doing A-level politics and a teacher suggested I pursue a career in lobbying. I remember asking what lobbying was, and once he explained that it involved advising clients on how to influence political decision-makers, it sounded like an ideal job that would encapsulate my interest and enthusiasm for politics in a professional capacity. Of course, I now know that working in public affairs is far more than traditional lobbying and my current job in a public affairs consultancy has far less face-to-face contact with politicians and decision-makers and much more emphasis on research and strategic advice to clients.

After finishing a degree in politics I was keen to continue my studies and came across the MA Public Affairs and Lobbying at Brunel University . The course offered a short internship in the public affairs industry as well as academic study, thus increasing my opportunity to develop a career in the highly competitive public affairs industry. The course provided a sound basis of theory as well as workshops with practitioners in the industry.

As part of the course I was lucky enough to gain an internship at a great public affairs agency and was offered a full-time position as a graduate trainee after the internship. As a trainee I worked primarily on parliamentary and political monitoring and research, which provided me with a solid understanding of parliament and the political process and really helped my development as a public affairs consultant.

I have since been promoted to account executive and then to the position I hold now, an account manager, all in the space of three years. In my current role I have far more client contact than previously, providing strategic advice and support to a range of organisations across the private, public and charitable sectors.

The best part of my job is that you never know what will happen when you walk into the office - whether it is a shock resignation or a last minute press conference announcing the latest policy developments. No two days are quite the same; you might find yourself going to parliament, policy events, conferences, client meetings or even site visits. It is great to work in an environment where everyone is interested in politics and up to date with current developments, but it can get quite heated at times when colleagues get into political debates.

I think it is really worth considering the different types of roles within public affairs and whether you want to work in-house or for an agency before you start applying for jobs. Also, think about what type of person you are and what might suit you better. Working for an agency is extremely fast paced and you have to manage lots of different clients and a broad range of policy areas. Often you do not get involved in the finer detail of policy and it can be difficult to manage your priorities if you are working for a number of clients with competing demands. One thing’s for sure, working in a public affairs consultancy certainly never gets boring and provides an excellent springboard for a future career in politics wherever that may be.