As in title - what are the best departments for progression as a policy professional? I'm thinking the centre (HMT, CO, No 10) is the way to go, but is this out of date? Does it make a huge difference, or just a small one?
Also, London vs regions vs overseas (where relevant to the department)? I'm still talking policy roles here in departments that have them outside of London (or overseas policy-facing roles in the case of FCO, DfID etc). Are they nevertheless inferior to London-based policy G7/G6 for progression? I'd assume yes, due to ministerial and SCS face-time, but could just be the lack of choice in these roles due to scarcity that gives the impression they are less 'promotable'.
For context, been offered a non-London policy G7 but just about to graduate Fast Stream and told that every department is open in principle, hence wanting to get my foot in the right door if possible.
To pre-empt the (fair) criticism of running before I can walk by thinking about G6+ before I even know if I'm an okay G7, I'd be looking to consolidate and get a bit of depth in some policy anchor as a G7 first. Just want to keep my options open for the future.