As one of the two representative bodies for higher education in the UK, GuildHE have regular contact with BIS and HEFCE and are included in major Consultations on higher education e.g. the Browne Review of the future of Higher Education funding. GuildHE is represented on a wide range of external bodies.

As part of its lobbying work, GuildHE leads efforts to persuade the Government, politicians and official groups on issues around higher education. GuildHE meets with stakeholders, civil servants and other relevant contacts to discuss policy and current issues and exchange information. 

Alongside UUK, GuildHE established the Leadership Foundation for Higher Education (LFHE) and provides funding to the Equality Challenge Unit (ECU). GuildHE is also a funder of the HE International and HE Europe Unit and a sponsor of the HEBRG.