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Stuart .

Head of Strategic Estates Insight and Planning

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Manchester

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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.

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Career path

Head of Strategic Estates Insight and Planning

HMRC

Started 03/2022 to Present

Head of Strategic Finance

Valuation Office Agency

From 03/2021 to 03/2022

Central Operations Head

Valuation Office Agency

From 12/2016 to 03/2021

Company

What do you like about your job and the company?

I enjoy being involved in the planning and decision-making on key issues affecting HMRC Estates, such as which estate changes do and do not go ahead, which locations we agree to sublet space to other government departments, and how we plan to maximise the use of our buildings. I enjoy working with a small team of people that has a big impact, as well as colleagues across wider teams within Estates but also in HR, Operations and Finance. I also enjoy the opportunity this role gives me to see the bigger picture, linking HMRC strategy with wider issues such as the Government Property Agency's objectives, Places for Growth etc.

Other insiders

Daniel S

Top Insider Advice

I never thought I would get onto the TSP. I had to push myself out of my comfort zone to attend the assessment centres, take part in all of the activities. I continue to do so with my day job - I don't like presenting, but I do lots of it. It builds confidence and resilience. Rationalise what's the worse that could happen by trying something new, or taking on a new challenge. For me, with the assessment centre, if I didn't get accepted - so be it. I got good experience of interviewing. Met new and interesting people, and got free food from attending the assessment centre (back when they were in person). Once I told myself these things, I pushed myself out my comfort zone to attend the day. I had worked hard to get the invite, so although I wasn't confident in going and being myself, that's what I had to do and it worked out well. Take the set backs as opportunities to reflect, develop and learn from. Keep pushing through set backs and pushing yourself out of your normal comfort zone to be able to achieve the goals you set for yourself.

Louise

Benefit lead

Top Insider Advice

I think we can all feel a sense of imposter syndrome, and that inner voice saying you are not capable. You are ! I think we all need to recognise that work can be challenging and not always as straightforward as you want it to be, which is where the doubt can set it. Its all about building that resilience for me, don't give up. If you want something just keep working towards it, even if that means taking it slowly.

Philip

Civil Investigator

Top Insider Advice

I wouldn't describe the first half of my Civil Service job history as a career, more a means to an end. Until I joined HMRC I had no idea what I wanted from a job and what motivated me, and I expected that to continue for years to come. It was only when I started my first tax compliance role that I quickly learned that I found the job very interesting and that I was good at it; the perfect combination. Without realising it I had developed a lot of the skills and attributes which you need in this type of role from some of my previous jobs; a keen eye for detail, instinctively examining the little things which don't seem quite right, and most importantly, being very, very nosy! What I did learn from my earlier Civil Service career was that if I wanted to reach the more senior grades that nobody was going to carry me on their shoulders to get me there and I needed to seek out my own opportunities to develop my skills and experience. I knew the limitations of my earlier roles in terms of developing my skills and realised I needed to work a variety of roles to gain that wide ranging experience. I moved initially from a wholly admin role to a decision making role and the skills I learned there still stand me in good stead today. I then moved to a junior manager role to gain some valuable leadership experience and improve my confidence. Therefore, my biggest advice would be if you've got a role or career in mind don't be afraid to move around into different roles and different departments. You will be exposed to different types of work and gain wider experience and along the way you may find that perfect combination of interesting work and being good at it too. Once you've found something like that, you know where your career likely lies. Also, ask for career help from those who've been around the block. Seek out a mentor or resources such as this to guide you on your career path and advise you if you feel you need that help.

Discussions with Stuart
What is the most valuable thing you have learned from your role?
in Career Tips·Monday, October 31, 2022
1 response
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