“I love helping others through mentoring, coaching and sharing my knowledge and experience.”
Anoushka received funding to become a Chartered Quality Professional of the Chartered Quality Institute (CQI) at DE&S.
Why did you choose to pursue a career in DE&S?
It was time for me to seek a new challenge from my role as a Senior Quality Control Scientist and I saw an exciting new opportunity arise for me to develop and implement a Quality Management System in DE&S. I had previously worked here as a summer casual during my holidays whilst I was studying at university which helped me to make the decision to return to DE&S.
What are you looking forward to in your role over the next 12 months?
Firstly, I am looking forward to delivering quality management guidance for the MOD through the online Acquisition System Guidance which is reference material for all MOD organisations. Secondly, managing the MOD Quality Awards which is an annual scheme to reward and recognise those who have delivered significant business benefits through a quality approach. Thirdly, I have to focus on a project with tangible business benefits as part of my development plan which will be a great challenge.
What are the opportunities to develop and progress within your function?
I have been provided with ample opportunities, training and support required to perform my role. I have become a Chartered Quality Professional of the Chartered Quality Institute and an International Register of Certificated Auditors lead auditor. Additionally, I have obtained my green belt in Lean Six Sigma which has allowed me to understand process improvement. I am also very fortunate to be on the DE&S High Potential Advanced Talent Scheme to assist in my development for a role as a future team leader.
What do you most enjoy about your job?
I enjoy working with like-minded professionals and playing an active role in various networks in the organisation. This has helped me to build and establish good working relationships in the community and across the organisation. I also love helping others through mentoring, coaching and sharing my knowledge and experience.
What’s the greatest achievement (in your role) to date?
In my first role in DE&S, I led the Air Commodities team to achieve the successful development and implementation of their quality management system. As a result, I also received a Director Air Support Commendation to recognise my leadership, drive and determination.
In my current role, I was selected for the DE&S High Potential talent scheme which made me feel recognised and valued in the organisation. The scheme has provided a brand-new insight into how to become a great leader in DE&S, helping me to become more self-aware and work closely with others to bring out the best in me.
How do you build a successful career at DE&S?
With ambition, resilience and agility. Be enthusiastic, determined, motivated and pro-active. If you strive to be better, seek and accept opportunities or challenges where possible to show your willingness to develop and learn new skills. Be prepared to make a conscious effort to push yourself out of your comfort zone with any opportunities you are presented with.
What motivates you?
I’m a delivery-focussed person so when I think about the end result, I feel motivated to achieve results and success. Once achieved, I feel a great sense of accomplishment for the value I have added to the business and my personal achievement. I am also a firm believer that it is important to remember how important you are in this organisation and how you could be making a difference for the Armed Forces.
