It is often assumed that selecting universities is based solely on data; consuming league tables, comparing graduate employment statistics, calculating the proximity to home (furthest away or nearest) and measuring the number of Nandos within a 10 mile radius. It is true that these influenced my decision to apply but it was only when I attended an open day did I know that UoB was my number one choice. Meeting lecturers who spoke with such knowledge about their fields, seeing the world class facilities, hearing students speak passionately about their experiences, and, of course, the beautiful campus meant that this choice was not only based upon my head but also my heart. After three years it was definitely the right choice.
Did you participate in extra-curricular activities, if so how have these helped you in your current career?
I was involved with lots of societies and groups throughout my time at UoB however a particularly formative experience was founding and leading the Sociology Society in 2014.
Yes it was hard work juggling this alongside my studies but this experience definitely accelerated my career. Not only did it stand out to prospective employers on my CV and applications it importantly provided the foundation to skills and competencies that I still use today. Seeing a problem then devising a workable solution, building a business case, presenting a proposal, forging relationships, leading a team, public speaking, organising events and getting stuff done, just to name a few.
Was I immediately successful? Absolutely not. However, the main thing is that through my involvement with such a range of extra-curricular activities provided opportunities to learn and grow enabling me to jump into the ‘world of work.’
What is your current role?
I work within the Consulting area of Sopra Steria. We partner with private and public sector organisations to deliver transformation programmes that address complex business challenges. It is international and has around 6,700 employees in the UK so we have a diverse range of expertise, skills, services and opportunities.
I am currently Programme Managing a digital transformation programme deploying an agile methodology and building relationships with a variety of stakeholders to set the right intent, build momentum and achieve results. As well as this I am involved with service design, data analytics, benefits planning and realisation, developing proposals and much more.
Tell us about your career journey from Birmingham student to where you are today
I secured a place on the National Graduate Development Programme (NGDP) which is a 2 year local government graduate fast-stream. I couldn’t recommend the programme highly enough, if you are looking for a challenge, learning and development opportunities as well as a cohort of peers after university then check out this programme.
I joined Leicester City Council in September 2015. My first placement was working with Transport Strategy which presented me with a variety of opportunities from project managing a high-profile public realm scheme in the city centre to recruiting, training and managing a team of Customer Services Officers to planning and co-ordinating a team during the LCFC victory parade.
My next placement was with Estates and Building Services undertaking a completely different business change role that looked at achieving savings through contract consolidation as well as the redesign of services and processes using a lean methodology to improve outcomes.
From there I was contracted to work with Wellingborough Homes, a housing association based in Northamptonshire, leading a transformational change project in-sourcing the repairs service to deliver the over 10,000 jobs per annum. This involved using data to inform resources, designing and implementing a new IT system and mobilising supporting contractors whilst helping the organisation to navigate this journey.
In 2018 I began my current role with Sopra Steria which is definitely a ‘step-up’ in terms of my career and I am enjoying the challenge.