Salma Shah, known as Ommasalma Shah, is a distinguished professional with a remarkable career that spans across various sectors, including politics, media, public policy, and advisory roles. As of 2025, at 41 years old, Salma has accumulated over 15 years of experience in key positions that have significantly impacted her field. Her expertise has allowed her to build a successful career, and her contributions continue to inspire those who work with her. This article will provide a detailed look at Salma’s full career journey, from her early career in journalism to her prominent roles in advisory positions and beyond.
Salma Shah’s Career Journey: A Detailed Biography Chart
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Ommasalma Shah |
| Age (2025) | 41 |
| Education | Journalism with Politics – University of Salford |
| Early Career | Parliamentary Assistant at House of Commons (2006-2009) |
| Media Career | Broadcast Journalist at BBC (2012-2014) |
| Political Career | Press Officer at Conservative Party (2009-2010), Special Adviser at UK Home Office (2018-2019) |
| Strategic Roles | Member of CSaP Advisory Council (2025), Member of Policy Exchange Board of Trustees (2025) |
| Advisory Roles | Non-Executive Director at Mitie (2022-Present), Managing Director at Kraken Strategy (2019-Present) |
| Leadership Roles | Special Adviser to the UK Home Secretary, Senior Adviser at Ministry of Housing, Communities, and Local Government |
| Public Policy Impact | Led policy strategy initiatives in government departments and business sectors |
| Business Development | Strategic leader in business development, public relations, and policy |
| Personal Traits | Known for strong communication, leadership, strategic thinking, and policy expertise |
Early Life and Education
Salma Shah was born in 1984, and her educational journey laid the foundation for a career defined by strategic thinking and effective communication. With a passion for both politics and journalism, Salma pursued her education at esteemed institutions, where she earned her degree in Journalism with Politics. Her academic pursuits equipped her with the necessary skills to analyze complex issues and navigate the fast-paced world of media and politics.
From a young age, Salma was determined to make a difference in the world, using her education as a stepping stone to achieve this goal. By combining her interests in journalism and policy, she developed a unique skill set that allowed her to excel in her future career.
Early Career in Journalism and Media
Salma’s career began in journalism, where she worked as a broadcast journalist with the BBC between 2012 and 2014. In this role, Salma honed her ability to communicate complex information in a clear and accessible manner. Her work at the BBC allowed her to build credibility as a trusted voice in the media industry. Through her journalistic efforts, Salma was able to engage with a wide audience and cover significant events in politics, culture, and society.
Her experience at the BBC also introduced her to the world of public relations, helping her build relationships with key figures in politics and government. This skill set would prove invaluable in her later career, as she transitioned into roles that involved strategic communication and advisory positions.
Transition into Political Advisory Roles
After gaining valuable experience in journalism, Salma made the natural transition into political roles, where her skills in communication and stakeholder management became highly sought after. Between 2006 and 2009, she worked as a Parliamentary Assistant in the House of Commons. During her time in this role, Salma was exposed to the inner workings of government and learned the intricacies of policy-making. This experience further solidified her interest in politics and policy and laid the groundwork for her future career in government relations.
In 2009, Salma joined the Conservative Party as a Press Officer, a role she held for a year. In this capacity, she worked closely with senior party members to manage media relations and shape public perception. Her ability to handle media inquiries and communicate the party’s message effectively helped her gain recognition within political circles.
Her political career continued to progress as she took on roles in government advisory positions. She served as a Special Adviser in various departments, including the Department for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport (DCMS), the Department for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy (BEIS), and the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government. These roles allowed her to work closely with government ministers, providing strategic advice and managing relationships with key stakeholders.
Strategic Roles and Advisory Positions
As Salma’s political career evolved, she began to take on more senior roles, including positions at prestigious advisory boards and organizations. In June 2025, she joined the CSaP – Centre for Science and Policy at the University of Cambridge as a member of the Advisory Council. This role involves providing high-level guidance on science policy, helping to shape the direction of research and policy initiatives in the UK. Her expertise in policy development, combined with her communication skills, has made her an essential member of the council.
Salma also holds several other influential positions, including membership on the Board of Trustees for Policy Exchange, a leading UK think tank, and serving as an Association Member at Bupa. These roles have allowed her to continue influencing policy at a national level, focusing on issues ranging from health to business development. Her contributions to these organizations have shaped both policy decisions and strategic planning in the sectors they cover.
Leadership Roles in Business and Advisory Boards
Salma’s career further expanded as she took on leadership roles in the private sector. She became a Non-Executive Director at Mitie, a leading facilities management company, in 2022. This role involved overseeing business strategy, stakeholder management, and investments. In addition, she joined Kraken Strategy as the Managing Director in 2019, where she continues to lead international business development and investment strategies.
Her leadership roles have also extended to organizations such as Trusthouse Charitable Foundation and Heylo, where she provides strategic oversight and guidance on business planning and investment strategies. These positions have allowed Salma to apply her policy expertise in a business context, helping organizations navigate complex markets and achieve their goals.
Impact on Public Policy and Government Relations
Throughout her career, Salma has had a profound impact on public policy, particularly in her roles as a senior adviser and strategist. As a Special Adviser to the UK Home Office between 2018 and 2019, Salma worked directly with the Home Secretary, advising on policies related to security, immigration, and public safety. Her work in this role demonstrated her ability to influence key government decisions and ensure that policies were well-communicated and effective.
Salma’s expertise in science policy and government relations has made her a sought-after consultant and adviser to various government departments. Her work with the Department for Science, Innovation and Technology and the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government has contributed to the development of critical policies that affect both individuals and businesses in the UK.
Salma Shah’s Continued Contributions to Policy and Strategy
As of 2025, Salma Shah’s career continues to flourish, with her involvement in key advisory positions and leadership roles. She remains committed to driving positive change, whether in the realm of public policy, business strategy, or government relations. Her work on advisory boards, combined with her leadership in business, has solidified her reputation as a thought leader in her field.
Her ability to navigate complex political landscapes, coupled with her strategic thinking and communication skills, has made her one of the most respected professionals in the UK. Salma’s continued involvement in these various sectors demonstrates her commitment to making a lasting impact on the world around her.
Conclusion
Salma Shah’s career journey is one of dedication, skill, and perseverance. From her early work in journalism to her influential roles in government and business strategy, Salma has made a significant impact across various sectors. Her work continues to shape the landscape of public policy, business development, and media communication, and her leadership in these areas serves as an inspiration to others. At 41, Salma Shah is a powerful example of how a successful career is built on passion, expertise, and a commitment to making a difference in the world.
FAQs:
- What is Salma Shah’s age in 2025?
- Salma Shah is 41 years old in 2025.
- What is Salma Shah’s educational background?
- She studied Journalism with Politics at the University of Salford.
- What key positions has Salma Shah held?
- Salma has served as a special adviser, strategic leader, and a managing director at various organizations.
- Where does Salma Shah currently serve on advisory boards?
- Salma is a member of the CSaP Advisory Council and Policy Exchange Board of Trustees.
- What impact has Salma Shah had in public policy?
- She has influenced policy development in government sectors and business, with a focus on communication and strategy.
