Aoife tells us about her role as an Administrative Officer in the Department of Health.
Please tell us a little bit about your role.
I work in the National Employee and Industrial Relations Unit in the Resources Division.
My role entails utilising detailed research and analysis skills to evaluate proposals and submissions for new grades, roles and apprenticeship schemes across the health sector in line with workforce reform and pay policy. This involves working with various stakeholders to ensure that there is a suitable healthcare workforce in Ireland with the appropriate skill mix and to ensure future readiness.
As part of my role, I prepare responses to Parliamentary Questions, Representations, Topical Issues, and press queries. I research and draft speeches, e-submissions and ministerial briefs on workforce and recruitment issues.
What were your reasons for applying for your role?
I applied for this position as I have always been interested in the work of the health sector. As part of my masters degree, my final research project examined inequalities in women's health. This experience strengthened my ability to critically evaluate evidence, identify trends and develop informed recommendations, leading to my interest in working in the Department and contributing to better health outcomes.
What do you value most about your job?
I really value the people I work with every day and the help and support that I get. There is always someone on hand to ask a question or give a steer. I also value the opportunities I get across a varied workload and the interesting topics that I get to work on.
What are some of the benefits and supports available to you?
The benefits available are a competitive salary and flexible working arrangements, the ability to work remotely is a huge bonus of being in my role. There is a huge amount of great training courses available for continued learning and self-development. I recently completed an Emerging Leaders Graduate Programme to enhance my knowledge, and gain experience working on a policy challenge with colleagues across other Departments. I also completed a Diploma in Health Services Policy and a Certificate in Health Services in The Institute of Public Administration which equipped me with a further understanding of the health sector.
What opportunities has this role provided for you?
This role has provided me with numerous opportunities, such as co-ordinating meetings for senior stakeholders and presenting at conferences with international delegates under shared learning exercises. This has strengthened my ability to understand the bigger picture, negotiate with key stakeholders and build a network of colleagues across various agencies and Departments.
What has surprised you since starting this role?
I believe what has surprised me most since I began my role is the breadth of areas that are covered in the Department. I have had opportunity to attend seminars and workshops to expand my learning on topics outside of my unit in order to understand the broader work and how this fits into my day-to-day role.
What aspect of the role do you particularly enjoy?
I particularly enjoy the research aspects of my role and meeting various stakeholders to understand proposals and identify key trends. I enjoy researching various topics on workforce aspects and international papers when drafting various briefings that are required by senior management. I really enjoy meeting new people at workshops and events and working with my team every day.
Would you recommend a career in the public sector and why?
I would recommend a career in the public sector as it has lots of benefits. Flexible working, a competitive salary, different leave options, and promotional opportunity are key areas that attracted me to this role.
The culture and the support that is provided is also a huge benefit as well as the scope of work that is covered. I enjoy working with people from diverse backgrounds and skill sets and seeing different perspectives and outlooks. I enjoy making a difference to people’s daily lives, no matter how big or small and understanding the impact that this can have.
Anything else you would like to share?
The work as an AO is varied, challenging and rewarding and I would recommend applying even if you are not sure where your career may take you. There is a huge level of variety across roles and the potential to move across different areas of the Civil Service to expand your skills and experience. Colleagues will support you along the way, impart knowledge and encourage you to perform to the best of your ability even on the most challenging of days.