I started my career in Commercial Directorate in 2014. I joined the Data Contracts Team, where I had the responsibility of drafting commercial documentation, data sharing contracts and cross government Memoranda of Understanding, ensuring compliance with DVLA’s Data Sharing Strategy and Data Protection Laws. I also represented Commercial Directorate at DVLA’s Data Sharing Clearance Panels, providing professional commercial advice and guidance on new data sharing initiatives. Whilst the role was challenging, every day was different which made me adapt, learn and grow. With ongoing encouragement from my line manager, I was successful at EO, HEO and SEO recruitment campaigns, and I have continued building on my career in the Directorate.
Commercial Directorate is a great place to work with continuous development at the forefront, and staff encouraged to create and maintain a Personal Development Plan. I regularly review my progress in 1-2-1 discussions with my manager. After expressing my desire to increase my procurement knowledge, I was fortunate enough gain a level move to the IT Category. My role entailed procuring IT-related goods and services through government frameworks, assisting IT colleagues deliver digital projects such as the Trailer Registration Service. This role provided me with the skill set required to further develop and obtain CIPS level 4 accreditation, which was a tremendous achievement.
I recently completed a secondment with the Department for Transport (DfT), where I was responsible for procuring IT-related goods and services for DfT’s Digital Services. I assisted in the delivery of strategic services such as the Bus Open Data and Street Manager Service, where I procured technical expertise to design, shape and implement these services. This opportunity enabled me to build on my contract and stakeholder management skills which were influential in my last promotion to Procurement Process Lead.
The Commercial Directorate has a range of development opportunities such as Procurement Knowledge Sessions, Mentoring, 1-2-1 coaching, additional learning/training and sponsorship to obtain CIPS accreditation.
I will shortly be starting my next development journey undertaking level 5/6 CIPS. This will enable me to obtain the professional MCIPS procurement qualification, which is a widely recognised Commercial accreditation.
I am keen to progress within my current role and have the full support and guidance from my senior managers. I thoroughly enjoy my job and being part of this Directorate. It’s a fantastic place to work with excellent career prospects.