A recent job advertisement said: “Previous experience in government is not essential, but you will need to have good political awareness and the ability to communicate effectively to a wide range of audiences and the ability to solve problems using structured problem-solving techniques.”
I think that attitude is typical for policy roles. The better you understand government, including for example experience working with senior politicians or drafting legislation, the stronger a candidate you would likely be. Civil Service experience is certainly not essential, though!
Edit: I realize I didn’t answer another part of your question. Experience in the relevant subject is encouraged but usually not essential—it depends on the role. Often an advertisement might say something like, “Able to credibly engage with stakeholders.”
A recent job advertisement said: “Previous experience in government is not essential, but you will need to have good political awareness and the ability to communicate effectively to a wide range of audiences and the ability to solve problems using structured problem-solving techniques.”
I think that attitude is typical for policy roles. The better you understand government, including for example experience working with senior politicians or drafting legislation, the stronger a candidate you would likely be. Civil Service experience is certainly not essential, though!
Edit: I realize I didn’t answer another part of your question. Experience in the relevant subject is encouraged but usually not essential—it depends on the role. Often an advertisement might say something like, “Able to credibly engage with stakeholders.”