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Jim .

Portfolio Lead

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Top Insider Advice

Find a mentor you are comfortable with. Be prepared to take honest constructive feedback. Create a support network...it's easier than you think.

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Career path

Portfolio Lead

HMRC

Started 01/2022 to Present

Retail and Training Manager

HMRC

From 01/1985 to 08/1998

Department Manager

HMRC

From 09/1988 to 06/2015

Company

What do you like about your job and the company?

I love having scope to tackle issues as I see fit and not being micro managed. I love building a network of contacts to support my work as I don't know everything and am relatively new to my position. I love making a difference and providing support and facilitating in a small way to get the funding for essential national services. I love finding ways to do things more efficiently and smarter. I really love my latest job and happy to share how I got here by accident.

Greatest achievements

There is life after redundancy even though at the time it is devastating. It took me 6 years to build a new career and even though I thought I did not want more responsibility again I grew into it with the help and support of some good people along the way. My wife said I wouldn't like my new job however I did. I've learned so much in the digital space however I still have loads to learn and would encourage others to do so too.

Other insiders

Hayley

Operations and Comm's Lead

Top Insider Advice

You will bring a unique perspective to a role as your experience will have been different from that of others. Don't be afraid to bring that to the fore, it is what makes you, you and brings a valuable contribution to a team. I wish I'd thought this more when I first joined the Civil Service!

Sarah

Communications business partner

Top Insider Advice

I've had a huge variety of roles in HMRC, and I've enjoyed all of them. I've found it's not always necessary to chase promotion. A sideways move to another area can expand your horizons and build your skills and this is recognised when you're ready to take the next step. I've always tried to maintain job satisfaction above all else. I've done a couple of jobs I've really hated, so I moved on and found something else. I've found if I'm happy in my job, I perform better and this is noticed. Also, don't be afraid to ask for opportunities or for what you want. I've always believed 'if you don't ask, you don't get' – the worst that could happen is someone says no and you're no worse off.

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 Jim
Is there one thing you wish you'd known before you applied?
in Career Tips·Tuesday, August 16, 2022
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8 responses
2113 views
What's your top tip for doing well at interview?
in Career Tips·Tuesday, September 6, 2022
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6 responses
2469 views
Are the working hours sociable? What is the latest time you may be working until?
in Career Tips·Thursday, June 26, 2025
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4 responses
36 views
What does a day look life in Debt Management as AO??
in Career Tips·Tuesday, February 25, 2025
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0 responses
14 views
How can I work for HMRC with a CTA qualification?
Wednesday, October 11, 2023
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3 responses
123 views