Gemma gives us insight into her career as an Administrative Officer in the Department of Finance.
Please tell us a little bit about your role.
I began working for the Department of Finance in September 2023. I am an administrative officer in the Sanctions Unit in the International Finance Division of the Department.
My role is to support the policy development relating to the implementation of sanctions domestically. I support the Minister in the performance of his functions at EU level by providing ongoing briefings. As well as feeding into negotiations on sanctions packages at EU level to ensure Irelands position is considered. Along with a variety of other tasks associated with the role.
What were your reasons for applying for your role?
The graduate programme for the business and finance stream was appealing for me. As a recent graduate with a Bachelor of Civil Law with a major in Business, I felt that my skills were directly applicable to the role.
What do you value most about your job?
I value the variety in the work. Everyday tends to be different, assisting in ongoing policy development. This has given me the opportunity to work on a variety of files which has expanded my knowledge and skillset.
What are some of the benefits and supports available to you?
The Department offers a lot of opportunities for professional development. The Department organises in house training programmes in financial services, tax, project management and economics. The Department also has a learning and development budget that can be availed of for other courses which are of interest.
Administrative officers can avail of flexi time which can lead to an additional day and a half off each month on top of your annual leave.
What opportunities has this role provided for you?
Within my first few months in the Department I was given the opportunity to enrol in a Professional Diploma in Project Management through the Institute of Project Management.
I attended a working party meeting in Brussels. This gave me a true insight into the policy development process at EU level.
I attended the Young Ireland programme that was held in Scotland. This was an event for civil and public servants who are considered to be early in their careers.
The Department has given me a huge volume of opportunities for further development and I continue to be encouraged to participate in events that will expand my skill sets.
What has surprised you since starting this role?
When I joined the Department I was surprised to see the size of the teams. The units were much smaller than I originally expected. I have learnt to appreciate this as it means I have been given a greater level of responsibilities.
What aspect of the role do you particularly enjoy?
An aspect I enjoy is each day I am given the opportunity to expand my knowledge through on the job training, the work of colleagues or the weekly presentations given by Executive Board Group of recent policy developments.
Would you recommend a career in the public sector and why?
Yes, I would recommend a career in the public sector.
I have the opportunity to work on ongoing policy developments, which I find fulfilling.
It is very flexible, there is the opportunity to go on secondment or mobility to other Departments. There is also the opportunity to move sections within the Department to explore multiple areas of interest.
As well as offering an array of supports and training opportunities.
Anything else you would like to share?
I would definitely recommend any recent graduates apply. I have been given countless opportunities for further development and have a high level of job satisfaction.