“You get the chance to work, gain qualifications and progress all at the same time. DE&S is very supportive, as there are lots of people with vast amounts of experience to learn from who are always happy to help.”
Rachel has been on the DE&S Project Manager Professional Development Scheme for 2 years.
Why did you choose to pursue a career in Project Management at DE&S?
I chose to pursue a career in DE&S because of the variety of opportunities available and the chance to progress. This scheme gives me the chance to work within different projects, helping to develop my knowledge and experience as well as working towards gaining the Association of Project Management (APMP) qualification.
What does the Project Management scheme entail?
My current role entails helping with all matters relating to project management and/or project controls. I work on different contracts helping to develop project management plans and stakeholder communications, supporting the management of risks and drafting business cases.
These are just a few of my tasks; every day brings something new which keeps the job interesting and challenging.
What are the opportunities to develop and progress within your business area?
The opportunities within the Project Professional Development Scheme are vast. I have a mentor who I meet with monthly, who guides my career progression and supports me in getting the most from my role. Also, being on a personal development scheme means I move teams every six months over a two-year period, is providing lots of opportunities to get to know a wide range of people with different specialist skills and learn from them.
What do you most enjoy about the DE&S Project Management scheme?
The thing I enjoy most about my job is that every day is different. There is a new challenge or obstacle to overcome and therefore I never have a dull day. Also, moving teams fairly regularly means there is always something new to learn.
What’s your ambition?
My ambition is to become a qualified project manager and to work my way up within the organisation. During the course of the scheme I am working towards my APMP qualification, which will provide me with a good understanding about project management which I can then apply to the projects within DE&S.
What’s the greatest achievement on the Project Management scheme to date?
I feel my greatest achievement was, after only six months on the scheme, being able to go into a project I knew nothing about and write their Risk Management Plan and Project Management Plan. I was able to do this by using the knowledge I had gained from my APM training, reading other documents from the project to understand the background and speaking to members of the team. is was a massive challenge, but so rewarding, as I learnt so much.
Why would you recommend DE&S to others as a great place to work?
There are so many opportunities in DE&S so you can definitely find a career, whether it is in finance, commercial, project management, etc. You get the chance to work, gain qualifications and progress all at the same time. It is also very supportive, as there are lots of people with vast amounts of experience to learn from and who always seem happy to help. I would highly recommend DE&S as a place to work.
What are the social benefits of working for DE&S?
There are lots of social benefits of working for DE&S, including flexible working, which enables a great work/life balance. However, the main benefit for me is the CSSC Sports & Leisure membership. This allows me to use the gym facilities, including classes, get cheap cinema tickets and discounts in many shops and restaurants all for under £4 a month. Bargain.
