Max S.
About me
| Max S. | |
| Politics, Economics and Philosophy | |
| Philosophy and Politics | |
| Undergraduate | |
| Langwith | |
| 2013 | |
| United Kingdom |
My employment
| Public Affairs & PR Director | |
| Railway Industry Association | |
| United Kingdom | |
| Politics and public affairs | |
| Small business (0-49 employees) |
More about Max
Like this profile?
Add this profile to your favourites so you can return to it later from your account.
A day in the life of a Public Affairs & PR Director in the United Kingdom
I help manage the organisation's engagement with politicians, including Government, civil servants, politicians and the press.
Briefly describe the organisation you work for
I work for a trade body that represents rail businesses to Government and politicians.
What do you do?
I help manage the organisation's engagement with politicians, including Government, civil servants, politicians and the press. This includes explaining issues businesses are facing in meetings with Ministers, selling stories in to national papers and setting out the strategy for the organisation's external engagement. No day is ever the same, but each day involves thinking how we best represent our member organisations to external audiences, how we get key messages across and how we engage with Government.
Reflecting upon your past employment and education, what led you to your current career choice?
I always loved politics and Public Affairs is a great way to get involved in it through a business-lens. I went from University to various internships in the US Congress and London's City Hall and eventually started working at a Public Affairs agency. I enjoyed what I was doing, so stayed in the industry.
Is your current job sector different from what you thought you would enter when you graduated?
No, I actually knew at University that I wanted to get into Public Affairs. I studied Philosophy and Politics and knew it would be a good career for me.
Describe your most memorable day at work
There's been a few - showing the Transport Secretary around a trade show, getting our Chief Executive's statement on the front page of a national newspaper, having a Minister mention our organisation's work in Parliament. I think the best part of the job is seeing the impact you can have on the political system, and being successful in representing your organisation's views.
Are there any challenges associated with your job?
It can be very fast paced and, at times, stressful. Its definitely a career for someone who likes a challenge, but that does also mean being able to cope under a lot of pressure - at least sometimes!
What’s your work environment and culture like?
It's mainly office based, but often involves a lot of events and meetings.
What extracurricular activities did you undertake at university and what transferable skills did you develop through these?
The most useful activity at university was being part of YorkVision. Was really helpful in understanding the importance of being clear and succinct in communications.
What would you like to do next with your career?
Not sure, but as long as I'm still enjoying it, I don't mind!
What top tips do you have for York students preparing for today’s job market and life after graduation?
See what's out there by doing an internship and getting work experience. And don't be afraid to ask people for help or guidance - you'll be surprised how many people want to help!
What topics from students are you happy to answer questions on?
Happy to talk about the industry I work in and how to get into it.
Next steps...
If you like the look of Max’s profile, the next steps are down to you! You can send Max a message to find out more about their career journey. If you feel you would benefit from more in-depth conversations, ask Max to be your mentor.