My ethical career: Public sector management trainee
|
Age 25 Education Degree in English from the University of Wales, and an MPhil from Dublin University So, what do you actually do? I’m a trainee on the National Graduate Development Programme which trains graduates in public sector management. Over two years I work on a series of projects at a host local authority, the London Borough of Bromley, in various departments covering three key areas: strategic, frontline and support services. At the same time, I’m working towards a postgraduate diploma in local government management at Warwick University. How did you get onto the scheme? I applied online, and went through a rigorous, lengthy and somewhat painful recruitment process. It involved first round interviews, an assessment centre and then further interviews with participating authorities. What does your typical day involve? At the moment, I’m working in strategy and development and my main project has been the development of a consultation for the Environment and Leisure Services department. This has involved interviewing staff at all levels, and then drawing up a report on my findings, for presentation to the departmental management team. What skills and experience do you need to work in this sector? The ability to think analytically is critical, and it’s a good idea to be able to demonstrate your interest in the public sector. Overall, it’s important to demonstrate your potential to develop into a good quality manager. What are the most memorable experiences you’ve had? They’ve been so varied! I’ve attended a citizens’ jury, taken part in a focus group on e-government, learnt about the benefits of using real nappies, taken a trip out to the local civic amenity site (tips to you and me) and attended a planning symposium. What are the best things about your job? The experience of working with people at every level within the department has given me a very rounded view of how everything fits together, and it’s been great to be able to see where decisions are made, and their impact on people. Top tip for someone wanting to get into this work? Persevere! National Graduate Development Programme www.ngdp.co.uk
© Copyright ngo.media ltd. |
