The OU Politics, International Relations, and Policy Society is running a co-option for vacate committee slots.
OU PIPS is opening a co-option process to fill several vacancies on our committee — and as a growing society, this is your chance to step in, take ownership, and help shape what we become over the next year. We are entering an exciting phase. After a successful year of building the society and delivering our first major event programme, we are now focused on expansion, visibility, and long-term impact. These roles are not just about supporting the society, they are about defining it. ;
Media & Communications Officers
Our Media & Communications Officers run our social media, but we want more than maintenance. We want boldness, creativity, and experimentation. This role is about:
- Bringing in new members through engaging and imaginative content
- Keeping current members connected to ideas, opportunities, and debates
- Showcasing OU PIPS as a space for serious discussion and real engagement
- Working with our Events Officers to promote events
Opportunities:
- Build a public-facing portfolio in digital communications
- Experiment with content formats (video, short-form, commentary, campaigns)
- Help define the identity and voice of a growing academic society
Newsletter Staff Help us develop and refine the intellectual voice of OU PIPS. You will:
- Write and edit newsletters, articles, and blog posts
- Translate complex discussions into accessible content
- Highlight key insights from speakers, events, and global developments
Opportunities:
- Gain published writing experience
- Build a portfolio in political and policy communication
- Develop editorial and analytical skills
Event Officers Last year we built OU PIPS — this year we scale it. Event Officers will:
- Plan and deliver talks, panels, workshops, and social events
- Work directly with academics, practitioners, and guest speakers
- Help build a consistent and high-quality events programme
Opportunities:
- Gain experience in event planning and stakeholder coordination
- Build networks with academics and professionals
- Shape the intellectual direction of the society
Policy Officer This is a role for those interested in ideas, analysis, and impact. You will:
- Help shape the themes and direction of society discussions
- Support the development of policy-focused content and initiatives
- Connect academic study with real-world issues and debates
Opportunities:
- Develop policy and analytical skills
- Contribute to deeper, more structured discussions
- Explore links between academia, advocacy, and practice
Why Get Involved? You do not need extensive experience; what matters is initiative, curiosity, and a willingness to contribute. This is an opportunity to:
- Build real, transferable skills
- Gain leadership and organisational experience
- Develop confidence, networks, and a public voice
- Be part of shaping a society that is still evolving
- OU PIPS is not fixed — it’s what we make it.
If you want to influence its direction, build something meaningful, and take ownership of your experience at the OU, this is your moment.