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Zoe .

Senior Project Manager - Locations Programme

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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

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Career path

Senior Project Manager - Locations Programme

HMRC

Started 07/2019 to Present

Governance and Assurance Lead - Locations Programme

HMRC

From 07/2016 to 06/2022

Project Manager - Policy Delivery

HMRC

From 06/2015 to 06/2016

Company

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

Other insiders

Ranjeet .

Top Insider Advice

For me personally life is all about helping others where you can and also about making memories with the people closest to you. Work life balance is key for me and having the ability to work on a variety of activities, being able to collaborate with various stakeholder. Work out what matters most to you in regards to a job role or career. It is important to find a job role which you enjoy doing and is fulfilling as this will keep you motivated. Do not underestimate yourself, if there is a course you wish to do, if you want to change careers completely, just go for it, reach out for support and guidance.

Lesley

Business Management Unit Higher Officer

Top Insider Advice

Try different areas. Don't stick to one

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.

Discussions with Zoe
Have you found it easy to maintain a work-life balance?
in Career Tips·Monday, October 31, 2022
1 response
58 views
i have AAT LEVEL 2 do have job
in General·Monday, February 13, 2023
2 responses
25 views
Please tell me about the training when you first joined?
in Career Tips·Tuesday, April 11, 2023
1 response
63 views