Insider profil

Picture of Pete

Pete .

Situational Awareness Officer

Ask me a question
Chief Digital Information Office (CDIO)

Keen to receive questions about

Career DevelopmentCareer TipsEveryday LifeInterview Advice

Top Insider Advice

Once established the keep your options open. The department and Civil Service are vast, work is varied and options are unlimited. Look for opportunities to expand your knowledge, experience and contacts.

Read more advice

Career path

Situational Awareness Officer

HMRC

Started 12/2020 to Present

Company

What do you like about your job and the company?

Two days rarely the same. From dealing with IT incidents impacting across the Department to meetings across the Civil Service, the work is vast and different.

Greatest achievements

Using secondments and experience-gaining opportunities to broaden my knowledge & gain valuable work experiences from across the Civil Service to achieve promotion.

Other insiders

Rasila

project manager

Top Insider Advice

I really believe that if you work hard and give your very best in your career path then you will succeed in the role you want to get to. I took every opportunity in my career to develop my skills and learn new skills which helped me to progress in my career.

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.

Mary .

Top Insider Advice

Based on my experience spanning multiple departments and roles - from DWP to HMRC, and from operational to leadership positions -here's my top advice for those joining the Civil Service: 1. Look sideways, not just upwards for growth opportunities Embrace additional responsibilities alongside your core role like continuous improvement advocacy, outreach work, and advisory positions. These develop versatile skills and increase your visibility across departments. 2. Step outside your comfort zone to build confidence My transition from behind-the-scenes roles to face-to-face work demonstrates how stretching yourself builds transferable skills and personal resilience that benefit your entire career. 3. Cultural change starts with everyday leadership Challenge negative workplace culture, you don't need formal authority to create positive environments. Building trust and psychological safety pays dividends in team performance. 4. Bring your authentic self to work Diversity of thought and experience strengthens the Civil Service. Authenticity helps create an inclusive environment where everyone can contribute fully. 5. Connect across boundaries Establish or join existing networks that spans different business areas and/or departments. Breaking down silos creates more effective public service delivery and enriches your professional experience. 6. Focus on continuous learning and improvement Commit to evaluation and learning, this demonstrates how reflective practice drives both personal development and better service outcomes. 7. Remember the purpose behind the work Throughout your roles maintain focus on how your work impacts UK citizens and communities - the ultimate measure of success in public service.