Insider profil
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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.
Career path
Head of Strategic Estates Insight and Planning
HMRC
Started 03/2022 to PresentHead of Strategic Finance
Valuation Office Agency
From 03/2021 to 03/2022Central Operations Head
Valuation Office Agency
From 12/2016 to 03/2021Company
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.
Marta .
Top Insider Advice
Keep your mind and eyes open as there are are so many opportunities
Sandra
Tax Investigator
Top Insider Advice
I've been a Civil Servant for 34 years, starting as an AO in what was DHSS, processing benefit claims. This was a real baptism of fire, dealing with desperate people and desperate situations and exposed me to parts of the population that were a long way from my life. I learned good people skills from this and a real focus on how important good customer service is-doing what you say you will and still having to deliver even when things are difficult or unpopular. This gave me a good grounding for moving onto National Insurance in a compliance role for business and individuals. HMRC merged in 1999 with NI and that was the start of my accidental career. I'm proud to have worked my way up from the bottom as I believe it made me who I am. Whilst no against direct entrance programmes, gaining experience within different grades and roles creates a rounded person.
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.