At a Glance
- Tasks: Join a committee to shape higher education policy and engage with key stakeholders.
- Company: OfS, the independent regulator of higher education in England.
- Benefits: £300 per meeting, travel expenses covered, and a chance to influence education policy.
- Other info: Meet five times a year, with opportunities for professional growth and networking.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on higher education and advocate for diverse student interests.
- Qualifications: Expertise in public affairs, political engagement, and strategic thinking required.
The predicted salary is between 3000 - 6000 £ per month.
The OfS is the independent regulator of higher education in England. Our strategy for 2025-30 seeks to ensure that students from all backgrounds benefit from high quality higher education, delivered by a diverse, sustainable sector that continues to improve.
We launched a new Public Affairs Committee in May 2026 to provide expert advice and assurance to the OfS in relation to the wider higher education public policy environment in which our regulation operates. The committee is currently in an initial phase, with appointments made for seven months. We are now recruiting for up to six members of the committee to be appointed for three years from December 2026.
The committee offers the opportunity for individuals with significant public affairs or political engagement expertise to:
- inform implementation of our strategy and priorities
- advise on effective engagement with political and wider public stakeholders
- offer constructive challenge, insight and debate on our approach
The committee will consist of expert members, OfS board members, and the chair of the OfS board. It will be attended by senior OfS staff.
We expect the committee to meet five times each year. At least three of those meetings will take place in person in London with the others held online. Meetings will usually be scheduled for two hours and will be held within normal working hours. Travel and subsistence expenses, if incurred, will be reimbursed for meetings. An attendance fee of £300 for each meeting will also be paid.
Expert members of the OfS Public Affairs Committee will, collectively, have a broad range of experience including, but not limited to:
- An understanding of how regulators navigate political and wider external operating environments.
- An understanding of public sentiment towards higher education, public policy and regulation.
- Outstanding political awareness and strategic thinking with demonstrable experience of delivering sound judgements and strategic advice on public affairs, communications or stakeholder engagement.
- An exceptional track record in developing and delivering high-quality and impactful public affairs, communications and/or stakeholder engagement strategies.
- Firm grip and understanding of the current direction of public policy across education and wider government strategy.
- An excellent grasp of the current challenges, opportunities and threats facing the higher education sector, and an understanding of how regulatory intervention can protect the interests of students.
We are recruiting up to six expert members to the committee for an initial term of three years. Members will have the expertise and experience to provide insight and contextual analysis to the board and executive of the current political, sector and operating landscape. They should be able to both stimulate and critically challenge the OfS’s approach to stakeholder engagement and communications.
The OfS regulates the higher education sector on behalf of all students. We value diversity because of the wealth of perspectives, experience and ideas that it brings to our work, and we strive to embed equality of opportunity in everything we do. We recruit based on fair and open competition and welcome applications from candidates regardless of age, disability, race, gender reassignment, marriage and civil partnership, pregnancy and maternity, religion or belief, sex, and sexual orientation.
Closing date for applications: Noon Monday 22 June.
Committee Member in London employer: Office for Students
The Office for Students (OfS) is an exceptional employer that champions diversity and equality, ensuring that all voices are heard in the higher education sector. As a Committee Member, you will engage with influential stakeholders in a collaborative environment, contributing to meaningful public policy discussions while enjoying competitive remuneration and reimbursement for expenses. With a commitment to professional growth and a focus on impactful strategies, the OfS offers a unique opportunity to shape the future of higher education in England.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Committee Member in London
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in your field, especially those connected to the OfS or public affairs. A friendly chat can lead to insider info and maybe even a recommendation.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by brushing up on current public policy issues in higher education. Show us you know your stuff and can engage in meaningful discussions about the sector's challenges and opportunities.
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t just wait for job postings! Keep an eye on our website and apply directly when you see something that fits. We love proactive candidates who take the initiative.
✨Tip Number 4
Follow up after interviews with a thank-you note. It’s a simple gesture that shows your appreciation and keeps you fresh in our minds as we make decisions.
We think you need these skills to ace Committee Member in London
Some tips for your application 🫡
Know Your Stuff:Before you start writing, make sure you understand the role and the OfS's mission. Dive into their strategy for 2025-30 and think about how your experience aligns with their goals. This will help you tailor your application to show that you're the perfect fit!
Be Authentic:When writing your application, let your personality shine through! We want to see the real you, so don’t be afraid to share your unique experiences and insights. This is your chance to stand out from the crowd.
Showcase Your Expertise:Highlight your relevant skills and experiences that relate to public affairs and stakeholder engagement. Use specific examples to demonstrate how you've navigated complex political environments or developed impactful strategies in the past.
Apply Through Our Website:Make sure to submit your application through our website. It’s the easiest way for us to keep track of your application and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining our team!
How to prepare for a job interview at Office for Students
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you have a solid understanding of the OfS's strategy for 2025-30 and how it relates to public affairs. Familiarise yourself with current public policy trends in higher education, as well as the challenges and opportunities facing the sector.
✨Showcase Your Expertise
Prepare to discuss your experience in public affairs or political engagement. Think of specific examples where you've successfully navigated complex political environments or developed impactful stakeholder engagement strategies. This will demonstrate your value to the committee.
✨Engage in Thoughtful Debate
Be ready to offer constructive challenges and insights during the interview. The OfS values critical thinking, so think about how you can stimulate discussion around their approach to stakeholder engagement and communications.
✨Ask Insightful Questions
Prepare some thoughtful questions to ask at the end of your interview. This shows your genuine interest in the role and helps you understand how you can contribute to the committee's goals. Consider asking about the committee's current priorities or how they measure success.
