Sebastian gives us insight into his career as an Administrative Officer in the Department of Finance.
Please tell us a little bit about your role.
The role is multi-faceted with a variety of responsibilities. Our main responsibility is of Risk Management which involves the continued upkeep, improvement and oversight of the department’s Risk Register. This in turn involves working with people from various sections within the Department, along with conducting our own horizon scanning - the continuous observation of data and the latest news of happenings going on in the world, economic or otherwise, in order to be aware of what may happen in the future, and planning accordingly. Other aspects of the role include representing the Department on inter-departmental committees and groups and producing a daily market report.
What were your reasons for applying for your role?
I was in-between jobs and wanted a new challenge. Working in DFIN was an opportunity that excited me as I knew there would be so much that I could learn from any role I was allocated within the department, furthering my expertise in various areas. This combined with the flexibility to switch roles down the line, and the opportunity to have support in any further studies were big factors in attracting me to apply for a role within the Department.
What do you value most about your job?
The expertise I am gaining in my area of work, the support from colleagues and the flexible work arrangements, including hybrid working and flexi-time.
What are some of the benefits and supports available to you?
Hybrid working, flexi-time, and Social Clubs. While I haven’t taken advantage of them personally, there are plenty of support and peer groups available too. There are regular seminars on various topics too, which can be very interesting.
What opportunities has this role provided for you?
The opportunity to gain expertise in Risk Management, in-house courses to further my expertise in other areas and while it hasn’t applied to me as of yet, down the line, the opportunity for career progression.
What has surprised you since starting this role?
The flexibility of work timings, and the wide variety of responsibilities involved with my role.
What aspect of the role do you particularly enjoy?
Working alongside my colleagues is always enjoyable, as there’s always a good atmosphere between us which is an added bonus.
Some of the inter-departmental groups that I’m involved in as part of my role are particularly interesting to be part of too.
Would you recommend a career in the public sector and why?
I would. The people are sound, the work hours reasonable and flexible, and there are plenty of opportunities available for further learning and career progression.