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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
Robina
CSG Advisor
Top Insider Advice
Never by shy or afraid to try something new and don't expect opportunities to come to you, they might do, if you're in the right place at the right time but mostly, it's about keeping your eyes open. Taking action on your goals and believing in yourself is important, lets face it, you are your own best friend. Be open and flexible and avoid linear thinking as you can miss opportunities right in front of you. Doing something different to your business as usual is a great way to meet new people, network and learn more about yourself.
Lesley
Business Management Unit Higher Officer
Top Insider Advice
Try different areas. Don't stick to one
Stuart
Head of Strategic Estates Insight and Planning
Top Insider Advice
In terms of applications, it sounds obvious, but make sure you read the job advert thoroughly, and tailor your application to evidence your experience of the key things the vacancy-holder is looking for. i've reviewed hundreds of job applications which often fail to do this. In terms of doing your job, be clear on your responsibility and then commit to delivering it with energy. Focus on the most important things that need to be delivered, structure your time well to achieve these, and be sure to consider others as you deliver - hitting a target is great, but not as great if everyone else's delivery has been negatively affected by the way you've worked and interacted - remember to keep the big picture in mind. If you are considering whether to move roles or take on additional/new responsibilities, my advice would be to go for it. It's often easier to stick with what you know, and to find reasons not to try new things - "maybe next month, or next time". In my experience, trying new challenges always builds your experience, resilience and understanding, and as long as you don't change roles really frequently, you will rewarded in your career as a result of taking the plunge.