Charlotte Chase

Current Employer/Organisation Name

Currently on a career break

What have you been doing since leaving Exeter, and what are you doing now?

I have worked in a number of roles across Government Affairs, including as Policy Director for a leading UK think tank, Policy and Regulation Consultant to major energy and infrastructure businesses, and most recently European Government Affairs Analyst for one of the largest hedge funds globally.  

Why did you choose this career? And what do you enjoy most about your work?

During my time at Exeter, I discovered my love for policy making by interning at a think tank. Policy making is creative and brings together politics with real world commercial impact. Policy change has a meaningful impact on the world we live in. Since graduating, I’ve enjoyed the fast paced nature of this career, working on many different types of situation in an ever-changing political environment. I continue to learn new things daily, meet incredibly interesting people, and believe my work can have real impact.  

Please tell us if you were a member of any societies, groups or sports clubs?

I was part of Politics Society.

What did you enjoy most about your programme and what was the biggest highlight?

I enjoyed the freedom to bring together aspects of political philosophy with real time situations. 

What did you most enjoy about studying here?

Meeting friends for life, studying a challenging but fascinating course and the lifestyle that Exeter has to offer.

What skills and experiences have been most useful for your career?

Critical thinking, analysis and debate, as well as writing. 

What advice would you give to a current student who wishes to pursue your career?

Start early and offer your time to people who work in the sector. Politics and policy is all about building experience and judgement. The more you see, the better advice you will be able to provide. 

What are your plans for the future?

I am looking to building upon the depth of policy and political experience that I have built up, and expand this into adjacent fields, such as sustainability, media and strategic advisory.