Insider profil
Top Insider Advice
If we only did what was comfortable, we would never make any progressions. Challenge is part of growth but if you are your first obstacle, then you will never even try. No matter how ludicrous, never say no to yourself once you remove that impediment then you can start working out what you need to do, if you have the experience or skills, then getting down to complete the application or if you don't have the skills then what can you do to either acquire them or demonstrate you can pick that skill up quickly in the new role. Finally, make sure you read the application and provide them with the information they need to make it easy to appoint you or invite you for interview. The number of applications I see without any reference to the role they are applying for is really disappointing, so make sure what your application says is appropriate.
Career path
Assistant Director, Strategic Design and Investment
HM Revenue & Customs
From 07/2020 to 12/2022Head of Trade Policy for Middle East, Afghanistan & Pakistan
Department for International Trade
From 09/2018 to 07/2020Tax Consultant
Deloitte LLP
From 03/2017 to 09/2018Company
What do you like about your job and the company?
By the time an issue crosses my desk, I am in the lucky position of being somewhat freer to come up with innovate and outlandish ideas because it would have crossed the desk of several people before and either they don't know the answer, or because there is no simple or easy solution. Therefore, because I am confronted only by the hardest questions I have to look beyond the immediate issue and work out the root cause of it all and figure out whether a systemic wide alteration is either appropriate or even feasible. Then I go about it speaking to as many experts as possible to work out a strategy to enable all the decision makers across the department to make a series of choices that when added together help address the big issue I'm asked to solve.
Greatest achievements
I don't measure my achievements by milestones but by consistently delivering for taxpayers, my colleagues, my Minister and my seniors. In the areas where I work, there are never any easy answers so being consistent and continually iterating to find the better answer to the problem and being flexible to adapt when new information arises. The fact that my colleagues seek my involvement, my seniors delegate issues for me to resolve and my team enjoy showing up everyday gives me pride in what I do and is the indicators that I'm doing a good job
Viola .
Top Insider Advice
Identify your long term career aspirations, set specific goals and achievable goals to guide your progression Take advantage of training programmes, workshops, and seminars to enhance your skills and knowledge Take on new challenges - volunteer for projects or tasks outside your daily responsibilities Smile - build relationships with peers, leaders, mentors Prioritise your well-being, maintain a healthy work life balance, always set boundaries
Lynn
Marketing and Social Media Manager
Top Insider Advice
In order to learn, improve and progress this can sometimes inevitably mean rejection somewhere along the way. Instead of letting this dampen your spirit, see it as a learning curve. Build the knowledge or skills you need, then try again. Whether your ambition is to progress right to the top, or be recognised as the best in your role, everyone has different goals and you are your best advocate.
Terry
Business Support Team Manager
Top Insider Advice
It can be a very daunting experience starting work for a new employer, no matter what your age or experience. On my first day in the office (having never worked in an office before) I dressed in full suit and tie, only to find my colleagues were in smart casual dress. This was 33 years ago and now a simple question could be asked on a platform such as this. Then there are the ways things can sometimes be explained incorrectly, it's not anyone's fault. Generally no one is specifically trained in dealing with the diverse nature that working/office life can bring. Rest assured HMRC is a great place to work and One of HMRC's Values is that we are innovative, We are committed to continuous improvement and to developing ourselves. Another is that we are professional, We partner with others and collaborate within and across teams to achieve great results.
