Michael Gowen
Manchester,United Kingdom
Summary
I am a strategic and results-driven policy professional with a proven track record of delivering impactful outcomes across multiple UK government departments. I am experienced in leading complex policy initiatives, managing cross-functional teams, and engaging with devolved administrations to shape regulatory frameworks. I am adept at navigating high-pressure environments, driving innovation, and influencing senior stakeholders to achieve organisational goals. I understand the complexities of working within intergovernmental environments and how to manage competing priorities.
Overview
9
9
years of professional experience
3
3
years of post-secondary education
Work history
Senior Food Policy and Delivery Advisor
Food Standards Agency
2022.08 - 2025.07
- Lead strategic delivery of Regulated Product Authorisations, including the UK's first delivery of high-profile CBD workstreams, ensuring compliance with legislative deadlines and public safety.
- Manage a multidisciplinary team to deliver public consultations and risk management options, demonstrating leadership in a complex regulatory environment.
- Collaborated on the development of a new Regulated Products application system to replace the beta version, aligning innovation with regulatory standards and enhancing operational efficiency.
- Collaborate with devolved administrations, including Scottish Government, to ensure policy coherence and effective stakeholder engagement across the UK.
- Drive continuous improvement initiatives and lead recruitment efforts to expand team capabilities.
Food Policy Advisor
Food Standards Agency
2020.11 - 2022.08
- Undertook a leading role in designing and implementing the Regulated Products Approvals Service, contributing to the agency's post-EU regulatory transformation.
- Established relationships with the Devolved Administrations, ensuring that intergovernmental priorities were adhered to and incorporated into the new system.
- Produced briefings and analytical reports for senior leadership, supporting evidence-based decision-making.
- Managed a cohort of over 30 temporary staff, demonstrating strong leadership and resource planning skills.
Policy Advisor and Personal Assistant
Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government
2018.11 - 2020.11
- Supported two Deputy Directors across diverse portfolios, ensuring seamless coordination of strategic priorities and stakeholder engagement.
- Delivered ministerial briefings and managed high-level correspondence, contributing to the department's policy development and external relations.
- Acted as policy advisor within the Institutions team, producing analytical reports and liaising with external bodies to inform policy direction.
Purchasing Assistant
FC Lane Electronics
2018.03 - 2018.06
- Supported procurement operations using ERP systems and supplier negotiations.
Trainee Sales Executive
Harwoods Land Rover
2017.12 - 2018.03
- Delivered customer service and administrative support across sales and aftersales teams.
Chaucer Syndicates
2017.10 - 2017.10
- Conducted risk analysis within the renewable energy underwriting team.
Learning Support Assistant
Burnt Ash Primary School
2017.01 - 2017.08
- Provided tailored support to students with special educational needs.
Education
1st Class (Hons) - History
University of Southampton
2013.01 - 2016.01
University of Wisconsin-Madison
2014.08 - 2014.12
Skills
- Strategic Policy Development
- Stakeholder Engagement and management
- Cross-Government Collaboration
- Project Management
- Regulatory Analysis
- Public Affairs
- Leadership & Team Management
- Communication & Briefing
- MS Office Proficiency
Interests
- Sports, particularly cricket
- Outdoor activities
- Travel
- Food
Timeline
Senior Food Policy and Delivery Advisor
Food Standards Agency
2022.08 - 2025.07
Food Policy Advisor
Food Standards Agency
2020.11 - 2022.08
Policy Advisor and Personal Assistant
Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government
2018.11 - 2020.11
Purchasing Assistant
FC Lane Electronics
2018.03 - 2018.06
Trainee Sales Executive
Harwoods Land Rover
2017.12 - 2018.03
Chaucer Syndicates
2017.10 - 2017.10
Learning Support Assistant
Burnt Ash Primary School
2017.01 - 2017.08
University of Wisconsin-Madison
2014.08 - 2014.12
1st Class (Hons) - History
University of Southampton
2013.01 - 2016.01