GM Policy Fellowship Scheme 2024

Meet the Greater Manchester Policy Fellows who are joining us for the inaugural year of our fellowship scheme.

Our Greater Manchester Policy Fellowship Scheme will create new networks and strengthen existing relationships between researchers and policymakers in Greater Manchester and nationally. The programme is also designed to augment the personal and career development of all participants. Meet some of the fellows joining us this year.

  • Image of James Brannan

    James Brannan

    James Brannan is a Senior Cyber Security Policy Advisor at the Cabinet Office, with responsibility for risk management & governance, and supply chain & software security. Whilst new to this policy area, James previously held responsibility for Fuel Duty Policy at HM Revenue & Customs, and has recently completed a Postgraduate Certificate in Public Policymaking at King’s College London. James studied Politics and Modern History at The University of Manchester between 2013-16.

  • Image of Tricia Francis

    Tricia Francis

    As a Trade Partnerships Manager within the Department for Business and Trade (DBT), Tricia leads the development and delivery of the Export Plan for Cheshire & Warrington and Liverpool City Region, working with local stakeholders, business-support organisations and other partners to help boost the region's international trade performance. She is passionate about promoting exporting as a route to business growth. In 2018 Tricia completed her Master’s degree in Peace and Conflict Studies at The University of Manchester.

  • Image of Lauren Probert

    Lauren Probert

    Lauren Probert is Head of Research and Futures at the Department for Science, Innovation and Technology (DSIT). She is a member of the Government Social Research profession, and has worked at six government departments in analysis, policy and strategy roles. Before joining the Civil Service, Lauren completed a PhD considering the role of energy suppliers in tackling fuel poverty.

  • Image of Rachel Smith

    Rachel Smith

    Rachel studied history at Cambridge and King's College London before working in the private sector and later joining the Civil Service. She is now Head of Innovation Ecosystem Policy at the Department for Science, Innovation and Technology. Rachel was previously at the Department for Education, working on policy areas ranging from higher education to adult skills to school academy trusts.