Civil Service fast streamer : Career development

Once you have joined the Civil Service Fast Stream  programme, you will undertake a variety of jobs in different departments. Roles are usually rotated every 12 to 18 months with scope for transfer between departments, and increasingly secondments, to the private sector. Careers are developed in one of three groups: corporate services; operational delivery; and policy delivery. Fast streamers are expected to gain experience of at least two of these and preferably all three. Although most fast streamers start work in London, secondments may involve moves within or beyond the UK.

Prospects for advancement to higher ranks within the Civil Service are good. Indeed, fast streamers are selected precisely for their potential to achieve this. The emphasis on accelerated promotion enables you to experience a series of jobs as part of a small team but with substantial responsibilities from the start.

First promotion to a more senior post, such as leading a policy team, should come after three to five years.

There is a strong commitment to continuing professional development (CPD) in the Civil Service and it is possible to work towards professional qualifications, for example, in accountancy or personnel, or a Masters in Business Administration (MBA).