Dom Smithies

Head of Influencing & Communications @Student Minds

Leeds, GB

In 2021 I stepped-up into a senior leadership role within the organisation, joining the Senior Leadership Team.As the Head of Influencing & Communications I am strategically responsible for the organisations\' influencing, policy, insights, communication and student engagement work. This includes: Working closely with student volunteers to ensure student voice is represented at a strategic level. Being a spokesperson for the organisation for press, policy and public affairs needs. Working with my team to engage in research and produce reports across a number of priorities - namely- Understanding Student Mental Health Inequalities (International Students)- Climate Change and Mental Health- Understanding Student Mental Health Inequalities (Non-Traditional Students)- An annual insights report- A Student Mental Health Manifesto. Engaging in a number of consultations and opportunities to influence policy. Such as- The Augar Review - a consultation on Higher Education reform- The governments’ mental health consultation- The NSS’ consultation around asking questions about student wellbeing- The Welsh Government’s consultation around student support.(including giving oral evidence at The Senedd)- Various roundtables & ministerial meetings.As a member of Senior Leadership Team, I also worked collaboratively with colleagues to: Lead our teams through annual operational planning, Work closely with our Board to ensure we\'re meeting our strategic commitments, Manage budgets across the organisation, Manage risk across the organisation, Problem solve any major challenges affecting the organisations\' operations.

Colfe's School

A’Levels: Philosophy, Politics and English Literature

University of York

Bachelor's Degree, Philosophy