Tshepo M.
About me
| Tshepo M. | |
| Politics | |
| MPA-International Development | |
| Taught Postgraduate | |
| Wentworth | |
| 2020 | |
| South Africa |
My employment
| Economist/Policy Analyst | |
| Bureau for Economic Research | |
| South Africa | |
| Science and research | |
| Small business (0-49 employees) | |
| 2020 |
More about Tshepo
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A day in the life of a Economist/Policy Analyst in South Africa
I have always wanted to pursue a career path that will allow me to leverage my educational background and skills in order to help societies make economic sense of some of their common problems.
Briefly describe the organisation you work for
The Bureau for Economic Research (BER) is one of the oldest economic research institutes in South Africa. It was established in 1944 and is part of the Faculty of Economics and Management Sciences (EMS) at Stellenbosch University. Over the years, the BER has built a local and international reputation for independent, objective and authoritative economic research and forecasting.
What do you do?
Am an Economist responsible global and domestic macroeconomic analysis, fiscal forecasting as well as interact with the media on retail sector developments.
Reflecting upon your past employment and education, what led you to your current career choice?
My passion for public service. I have always wanted to pursue a career path that will allow me to leverage my educational background and skills in order to help societies make economic sense of some of their common problems.
Is your current job sector different from what you thought you would enter when you graduated?
No
Describe your most memorable day at work
Attending the Budget Speech Economist Mock-up which allowed me to interact directly with the Minister of Finance.
Are there any challenges associated with your job?
High pressure environment dealt with through time management and the prioritisation of tasks
What’s your work environment and culture like?
Full-time office bound with an exception where I have to go meet up with a client. There is no restriction in terms of office wear. The organisation is driven by values such as open communication, collaboration, integrity, excellence as well as trust and respect.
What extracurricular activities did you undertake at university and what transferable skills did you develop through these?
Involvement in societies: communication, teamwork, diversity, flexibility
Soccer: work-life balance, teamwork, communication, resilence
What would you like to do next with your career?
I would like to rejoin the public sector to help apply some of the skills I am acquiring in the private sector.
What top tips do you have for York students preparing for today’s job market and life after graduation?
Preparation for professional life starts whilst you are still a student. There are a number of important interpersonal skills you can acquire as a student around communication, teamwork, critical thinking etc.
What topics from students are you happy to answer questions on?
How to transition from student life to professional life.
How to approach job searches, interviews and assessment
Any other questions students who like to ask
Is there anything else you’d like to tell us?
My previous work experience include working for the Ministry of Finance and the South African Reserve Bank
Next steps...
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