Suzanne Kenner

NAME Suzanne Kenner
JOB Principal policy officer
EMPLOYER London Councils
QUALIFICATIONS BA English and German literature, University of Warwick (2004); MRes government, policy and politics, Birkbeck College, University of London (2009)

I thought that the public sector would be the right career path for me because I have a strong interest in politics and government – I’ve also volunteered for an MP in the past. On graduating I took a job in an investment firm as I wanted to challenge my career assumptions and be sure that I was making the right choice. I enjoyed my time working there, but it confirmed that I wanted to do work that could help people.

Understanding local government

My partner and I moved to London where I took a job working for the elected mayor in Hackney for two years. Though the role had an administrative core, I was able to get involved in wider issues, attend meetings and write briefings – gaining an understanding of local government while making important contacts. I found that my main interest was policy development, so when a job in this area came up I applied. I think my experience working directly with councillors in a local authority was key to my success.

Lobbying for change

Essentially, I’m a lobbyist – I identify potential ways to improve how funding is allocated to deliver better local services. This involves research and policy analysis to support our lobbying cases and raise awareness. I joke that I get to argue for a living!

It is a great feeling to work on a ‘think piece’ that helps get an important issue onto the political agenda.

I primarily work with finance officers from all the London Boroughs but we also have links to officials in Westminster, councillors and MPs. My working day involves meetings for a range of purposes. I attend regular divisional meetings where we run through our work programmes and frequently attend meetings across London. I spend most of my time working on a case to present (and hopefully win). Putting together a convincing ‘think piece’ may involve preliminary research, data analysis, auditing colleagues’ work or writing up my own findings.

It is a great feeling to work on a think piece that helps get an important issue onto the political agenda. As some of our work is drawn from current events, it is also important to stay up to date with what’s going on in the news. I’ve had my statistics and quotes make it onto the BBC News website and the Politics Show – I still enjoy watching out for them!

Finding balance

I’ve just finished studying part time for a masters degree and it really helped working for an organisation that offers flexitime; my lectures were at 6.00 pm twice a week so being able to adjust my working hours helped me to balance my work, study and home life. I love working in central London – near London Bridge and Borough Market – and I enjoy the variety my job has to offer. It’s a friendly and supportive office – Friday night trips to a bar aren’t unheard of!

Innovative graduates needed

Local government is often seen as less glamorous than central government but I think it is more dynamic. Currently, there is a strong emphasis on innovation and a genuine buzz about raising our game to meet the needs of diverse local communities. Hardworking and enthusiastic graduates can make their mark and help shape public policies.

My advice is to use work experience to your advantage. I volunteered for an MP and worked in the private sector to test out my career choice before entering public service, and the transferable skills I gained were invaluable. The people you meet on work experience could really benefit your next career move.