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Project Delivery colleague

“I’d taken a long career break to look after my daughter, so when I joined FCDO Services, I was looking for a job that would offer some flexibility. Previously I’d worked in the banking sector, where I’d had to work weekends. I wanted a family-friendly organisation; somewhere that encouraged flexible working and at the same time offered progression. I’d been off work for some time and when I came back I was ready to build my skills to progress in my career. FCDO Services seemed to offer all that, as long as you’re prepared to put in the hard work, and I’ve been here ten years now.

In terms of progression, I’ve had a richly varied journey. I actually started in Human Resources. Then, I moved to Commercial Group as Commercial Manager, working with the team there to produce bid proposals. Then from there, I moved to become a Team Leader managing a Project Support Team, working closely with colleagues overseas. And that’s how I ended up in the Projects area. I’ve had opportunities to explore my interests and the things I enjoy.

I wanted a family-friendly organisation; somewhere that encouraged flexible working and at the same time offered progression.

I’ve moved up through the business, with steady progression. The organisation is good like that: if you’re prepared to put in the work, then you can develop in the direction you want to go. My hard work is paying off, and I’m always finding new challenges in the variety of work, as well as opportunities to learn and shadow more senior roles.

You really do learn so much, the organisation supports professional memberships and upskilling where possible. At the moment, I’m looking forward to going on a project assurance course that’s being funded by the organisation. And in the past, as a manager, I’ve also arranged  training courses for my team as well as support them to grow in their career. 

The culture here is very inclusive. I belong to the Race and Ethnicity network – the network that provides a space for colleagues of ethnic minorities to support one another to develop. So yes, FCDO Services is a very inclusive place, and there are so many support organisations and networks you can get involved in.

My hard work is paying off, and I’m always finding new challenges in the variety of work, as well as in the opportunities to learn and shadow more senior roles.

The Race and Ethnicity network organises lots of events. For example, we had an event where people could come in and learn about different cultures. People brought in traditional meals, wore traditional attires from their culture and country, and we all supported one another. It was a really well-received event. We’ve also held drop-in coaching sessions in our London offices so that everyone in the network can get career mentoring. Teams from Hanslope Park are encouraged to attend too, so we can make sure that everyone gets the support they want.”

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