Laura Wright Consulting. Former Special Adviser to the Secretary of State for Science, Innovation and Technology.
Moving into government as a Special Adviser was the first calculated risk I’ve taken in my career. I moved from my job as a financial journalist at Bloomberg to advise the Secretary of State at the brand new Department for Science, Innovation and Technology. I wanted a role that would give me skin in the game, the ability to set strategic direction, shape policy making and reputation management. Seeing first-hand how the civil service functions and how government departments work together certainly changed some of my preconceptions. This role challenged me in every way both professionally and mentally. It’s fair to say my stress threshold has been significantly elevated - learning how to deliver under intense media scrutiny. I’ve learned to trust my instincts and apply critical judgement to every situation. There’s no off. The pressure can be crippling at times. You are constantly acting as a representative for the Government, your Minister and the Department. That said the experience is once in a lifetime. Building the brand identity of a new government department; witnessing the difference policies make to businesses, the economy and society; managing legislation passing through Parliament; diplomacy between international partners. People often ask me is ‘it like The Thick of It?’ In truth, sometimes there are days that feel like a satire, however, the responsibility of government is no joke. You learn how to navigate fire fighting and execute your long term strategy. Working with the science and technology community was inspirational, the tenacity and ambition of these stakeholders is transforming our lives with new inventions, products and medicines. It was really gratifying to give the sector a direct line to government and promote the UK as an investment destination and home for businesses to expand. My highlights include: -UK rejoining Horizon Europe, the world’s largest research programme -Hosting the World’s first AI Safety Summit at Bletchley Park -Online Safety Act, making the UK the safest place in the world to be online Grateful to Michelle Donelan for giving me the opportunity and for the talented colleagues and friends I’ve made. Looking forward to what is next!
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Flora Coleman
1mo
It was a pleasure to meet you! Good luck with your next steps and keep in contact.
CambridgeCultura
1mo
DSIT is one of the last government's genuine achievements. We were always struck by how well regarded it was in research/academic circles. You must be very proud of all you achieved there. Can't wait to see what you do next!
Loved working with you at DSIT 🙌🙌
nice
Mark Barton
1mo
Congratulations on taking that calculated risk - that leap of faith - and good luck with whatever adventures come next.
Simon French
1mo
You have taken a brilliant risk, and have clearly learnt and given so much. Well done and good luck for what comes next 👏👏
It’s been lovely to meet you Laura, good luck with everything in the future. X
Paul Markham
1mo
Well done on making such great use of a terrific opportunity, Laura. It comes as no surprise. I’m sure you’ll be bringing your considerable talents to your next move before we know it. All the best.
Emily Smith 🌜
1mo
Good luck in your next chapter xx
Careers Podcast Host | ex No. 10 Business Advisor | King’s awards for enterprise | event host | content curator
1moI always used to say, there was one big difference between being a SpAd and in The Thick of It. In the Thick of it, you never got people saying this is just like in the thick of it. Thanks for all you and Tom Skinner did at DSIT, no mean feat getting a new department up and running.