Five minutes with Dr. Mark Bennister, on why he’s supporting this year’s cohort of UPEN Mentees

What’s your role, and where are you based?

I am a Visiting Reader in Politics at Queen Mary University and an Affiliate Researcher at the Bennett School of Public Policy. I established the Lincoln Policy Hub at the University of Lincoln and was Director for 3 years, alongside being an Associate Professor of Politics. I am currently a freelance policy engagement specialist supporting universities in developing their policy engagement capacity. I have a career background in diplomacy and parliamentary research before entering academia.

What inspired you to apply to support and resource the UPEN mentoring programme?

I mentored in the previous iteration of the programme. I learnt a lot from my mentees and I was keen to support the development of the new mentor programme. Mentoring helps build sustainable networks, collaborative and shared problem solving, and professional development. Structured programmes can have great value for both the mentor and the mentees.

Why should UPEN Members apply?

To develop mentoring skills, share experiences and gain personal support and valuable peer-to-peer knowledge sharing, especially if new to a role.

Who can apply?

The mentoring scheme is open to experienced mentors and to those in policy engagement roles who wish to develop mentoring skills and support and nurture others in their roles. Whether you are an early career professional services staff member, a senior leader or working in a hybrid role, you’re welcome to apply. The aim of the scheme is to support staff in various roles and match mentees with the appropriate mentor to provide guidance, support and an inclusive listening environment. This acknowledges that policy roles in universities are often isolated or hybrid, making external institutional support via networks such as UPEN particularly important.

What do you think makes a good mentor, and what do you enjoy most about mentoring?

The most important attribute for a mentor is the ability to listen. Active listening provides a space for mentees to be supported in an inclusive environment. Flexibility to meet particular challenges and the ability to guide and facilitate professional development are also key attributes.

What do you wish someone had told you when you were starting out in your career?

That career paths can take interesting and varied routes. Also, the importance of making time – even in extremely busy schedules – to reflect. So productive and valuable for both personal and professional development.