Stephen joined the University of Nottingham as the Inaugural Director of the Institute for Policy and Engagement in 2018, overseeing both its public engagement and policy impact work following 25 years working in the UK Civil Service. He held board-level posts in the Ministry for Housing, Communities and Local Government and the Department for Education, and has also had senior roles in HM Treasury, Cabinet Office and, on secondment, in the Local Government Association and working with Cambridgeshire and Peterborough Local Authorities on public service reform and devolution. He has particular expertise in the policy making process and how to influence it.