Key Responsibilities:

As a graduate trainee I am responsible for developing and running project. To do this I analyse the issue, think of ways to improve and work with others to make the changes work. During my time on the NGDP scheme I will move between at least three different services in the council so my responsibilities will cover different areas. My projects have been diverse, and so far have included work on improving customer service through a better use of feedback, evaluating the contribution that library services make to the health and wellbeing of older people and work to promote culture at a strategic level.

Why did you join the Public Sector?

I have always wanted a job that was about more than just money, so the public sector seemed the natural choice. Local government really appealed as it gives me the opportunity to put something back into the community and help people in a real and practical way to get the most out of their lives. The breadth of options in the public sector was also a major incentive.

What do you consider to be the most significant challenges in your organisation?

Local government faces significant challenges, many of which will be recognisable across the public sector. The rapid pace of change and rising expectations alongside increased demands for our services mean that we need to radically change the way we work. We need to work more closely and efficiently with partners without forgetting our own purpose as well as developing new sources of revenue.

What words would you chose to describe the Public Sector?

Changing and surprisingly innovative.

What are the benefits of a Public Sector Career?

There are many benefits to working in the public sector but I think the key one is the sense of achieving something worthwhile. Knowing when you leave work that you have contributed to making people's lives better in a real way even when you have not been directly involved is very rewarding. Add to this a supportive employer who understands the importance of fringe benefits such as flexi-time and the work-life balance and the total package is very attractive.

What advice do you have for anyone considering a career within the sector?

Really research it, the range of career options is huge and there are lots of different ways in. If you can, try it out, or at least speak to someone already doing it as they will be able to tell you what it is actually like on a day-to-day basis.