Insider profil
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Top Insider Advice
No matter what job I've done over the years there has always been people impacted by it. Whether I was sorting out a customers Tax, National Insurance record, developing new IT systems, or delivering new policies or even opening new buildings its people that have been affected at the end of it. Its easy to forget when wrapped up in the day to day activities of your job, that I have made life better for a huge amount of people over the years but in tiny bite size chunks
Career path
Senior Project Manager - Locations Programme
HMRC
Started 07/2019 to PresentGovernance and Assurance Lead - Locations Programme
HMRC
From 07/2016 to 06/2022Project Manager - Policy Delivery
HMRC
From 06/2015 to 06/2016Company
What do you like about your job and the company?
Part of my Project Teams remit is to make sure that I understand the needs of our people working in our buildings, so not only have I got to understand the type of work that is done to make sure the right type of rooms are built or furniture and equipment is provided, I also need to understand individual needs. Our buildings are modern and very inclusive providing lots of different features to make it accessible to most people. However we also look to make things easier where we can for colleagues with specific needs, such as space for guide dogs, larger monitors or different types of chairs or desks. Knowing that I can help to make someone time at work easier and therefore making a difference to them shows me I add value with the job I do.
Greatest achievements
For the last 6 years, I've been part of HMRC Locations Programme, which is reducing from 170+ Offices across the country to 13 main Regional Centres and a number of smaller specialist and transitional sites. This has saved Government a huge amount of money but also provided great places to work for my colleagues. My early part in this was in the Programme Management Office (PMO) where I had to set up the governance processes to make sure we could track progress to time, cost and quality. This was very challenging at times as their was pressure on deadlines, papers to ministers, internal and external assurance activity but definitely worth it as the hard work has stood the test of time with the governance still in place today. I have learnt so much about myself in this time, what my strength are, where I need to focus learning etc. 3 years ago I switched from PMO and returned to a Project Management role leading on 3 buildings; 2 of which, I had to deliver during a pandemic, which brought about so many challenges, from supply chains to people not being able to visit sites, but by remaining calm, upskilling on digital tools, and having a great team around me I succeeded in opening 2 great places to work. I have also just opened Nottingham RC which I am extremely proud of
Abbey
Debt Management Complaints manager
Top Insider Advice
My one piece of advice is “Be-Honest” If you require any reasonable adjustments or assistance, “be honest” in your job application. “Be honest” in your training. If you don’t understand something, then speak up. If you need something to be explained again, “be honest” and say you didn’t understand. “Be Honest” with your aspirations, aims, goals for your career, there are many opportunities which may be applicable for you. “Be Honest” with yourself and keep your work/life balance right for you. My experience - I have been honest about my dyslexia. I have received additional help and support throughout my entire HMRC experience. I learnt an enormous amount about myself during "Coping strategy sessions" which allowed me to be more honest with myself and my manager. Finally, don’t be scared to question things.
Gordon
Risk Analyst
Top Insider Advice
There are a huge number of roles within HMRC and the wider Civil Service. There will be some that really suit your skills. Where there is a gap, the training and development opportunities available will give you every chance to fill that gap and find that role where you can excel. You will find management want you to improve and will encourage your development, whether within your current role or to achieve the abilities to change to somewhere else you can be better. Self-belief used properly can be your strongest skill.
Edward
Complaints Manager-Officer
Top Insider Advice
Always remain positive. Take the plunge once in a while and believe in yourself. Learn what you can from others. If there are any opportunities outside of your comfort zone, rise to the challenge and volunteer. You will surprise yourself, who will release the abilities that you didn’t think you had. Remain positive and focused on your goal. Consider the bigger picture, how does my role fit in within the wider goals of the business and how can you make it a great place to work. In a customer led role like mine, you can really make a difference to people’s lives. You see the negative impacts our mistakes can make and how you can work to ensure that they are not repeated, whilst improving the customer journey and the reputation of the business. You will gain positive feedback and people will look up to you.