Matthew S.
About me
| Matthew S. | |
| Politics | |
| History and Politics | |
| Taught Postgraduate | |
| Halifax | |
| 2020 | |
| United Kingdom |
My employment
| Research Officer | |
| His Majesty's Revenue and Customs | |
| United Kingdom | |
| Government and civil service | |
| Large business (250+ employees) | |
| 2023 |
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A day in the life of a Research Officer in the United Kingdom
Have confidence in your own abilities and skills. Employers will hire you because they think you will be a good fit for their organisation and have potential.
Briefly describe the organisation you work for
I work for HMRC as a Social Research Research Officer. My team specialises in creating and managing research projects on behalf of the department. Our research informs HMRC decision making as part of it's vision to create a modern and efficient tax system.
What do you do?
I create and manage research projects on behalf of HMRC. This includes writing research briefs, managing the tendering process and then running the project. We also quality assure research that comes back to the department, and help interpret the outputs for the organisation. Our work focuses on customer experiences of the tax system.
Reflecting upon your past employment and education, what led you to your current career choice?
I have always had an interest in public service. After graduating I got a job working for DWP as a decision maker on Universal Credit, then moved to DHSC and then DLUHC. I love that the civil service allows me to move around frequently to find my niche and a role that I love.
Is your current job sector different from what you thought you would enter when you graduated?
No
Describe your most memorable day at work
My most memorable day was very recent and related to the Omicron variant of Covid. I cannot describe the day/events publicly but I found myself very busy, working in a dynamic and ever changing situation.
Are there any challenges associated with your job?
It is very fast paced and fluid. Every day is different and this can make it quite stressful at times.
What’s your work environment and culture like?
Very relaxed and flexible. Management care about results and that we provide good value for money to the taxpayer, and do what is right for the public and the country.
What extracurricular activities did you undertake at university and what transferable skills did you develop through these?
I was a department representative for Politics throughout my time at uni. This developed a wide range of workplace and professional skills; but particularly developed my confidence.
What would you like to do next with your career?
Progress within the Civil Service, moving into a more senior analytical or policy role.
What top tips do you have for York students preparing for today’s job market and life after graduation?
Have confidence in your own abilities and skills. Employers will hire you because they think you will be a good fit for their organisation and have potential. Specific technical skills and knowledge can be taught/learnt easily. Confidence and personality is much more valuable.
What topics from students are you happy to answer questions on?
Anything.
Next steps...
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