Charley B.
About me
| Charley B. | |
| Biology | |
| Molecular Cell Biology | |
| Taught Postgraduate | |
| Vanbrugh | |
| 2010 | |
| United Kingdom |
My employment
| Senior Business Analyst | |
| University of York | |
| United Kingdom | |
| Education | |
| 2014 |
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A day in the life of a Senior Business Analyst in the United Kingdom
I've been motivated by my strengths, and going for opportunities that allow me to use and develop these.
Briefly describe the organisation you work for
I work for the University of York in Professional Services.
What do you do?
I work within the IT Services team at the University of York on projects that support teaching and research to transform the student and staff experience through IT-enabled business change. I work with service owners and users to gain a detailed understanding of business problems and the changes required to improve business processes and systems.
Reflecting upon your past employment and education, what led you to your current career choice?
Interestingly even though this was not the role I had in mind when I graduated, every role I've had since has developed knowledge or skills that I utilise as a Business Analyst. The last few years I've been motivated by my strengths, and going for opportunities that allow me to use and develop these. I love working with people, and solving problems so my current role is a great fit. Plus every project/change is different and I get to work with so many colleagues across the institution.
Is your current job sector different from what you thought you would enter when you graduated?
I originally wanted to use my passion for Science and experience in working with children to become a Teacher. I then taught Biology and Science in Secondary Schools after my teacher training. After a few years I evaluated what I liked and didn't like about teaching to inform a career change. I've now been in a number of different roles in Higher Education and each has contributed to knowledge and skills that I utilise in my role now.
Describe your most memorable day at work
Leading a great workshop with meaningful outputs - everyone collaborated well, there was so much energy in the room, and it all went mostly to plan!
What’s your work environment and culture like?
Our team has an amazing culture underpinned by true values. We are supportive of one another, look out for each other and champion successes and achievements.
We are also encouraged to keep learning and developing, with objectives in annual performance reviews, team goals and ring fenced training and development time.
My typical work day would involve a few meetings in different locations on campus, popping back to my office in between and catching up with colleagues face to face, over a coffee or on Slack.
We have flexible working hours, so I'm not stuck to 9-5 hours and can occasionally work at home when I need to (eg deliveries). Whilst everyone works hard we also support a positive attitude to work-life balance, and the importance of physical and mental health.
What extracurricular activities did you undertake at university and what transferable skills did you develop through these?
I was 2nd team captain of the Women's football team which taught me resilience, determination and how to keep morale up in a team - we didn't score many goals that year!
I was also a member of the Vanbrugh Junior Common Room Committee, which gave me experience with committees and planning events.
I also worked in the bars and catering whilst I was a student, which at times required diplomacy skills ('no you can't have another drink...')
What top tips do you have for York students preparing for today’s job market and life after graduation?
Think about what aspects of a job you do and don't want to do and then do your research. There are so many more types of jobs out there than you realise!
What topics from students are you happy to answer questions on?
I am happy to answer any questions on:
- More information about what a Business Analyst does, change management or project management in practice
- Applying for jobs in the HE sector
- General questions about applying for jobs e.g. how to use a person specification to complete an application form.
- How to identify your strengths and apply them to potential jobs and careers
Next steps...
If you like the look of Charley’s profile, the next steps are down to you! You can send Charley a message to find out more about their career journey. If you feel you would benefit from more in-depth conversations, ask Charley to be your mentor.