I’ve had a keen interest in mechanics and how things work from a young age. My early professional life was mainly managerial before I switched to more mechanical roles. Now, 25 years later, I have a happy middle ground of supporting an excellent team of people who assess the condition of vehicles at their annual test.

As Testing Network Manager (TNM) my overall purpose is to support our front-line teams and ensure we help everyone stay safe on Britain’s roads. This covers the annual testing of everything you can’t take to your normal car garage, as well as initial inspections of amphibious vehicles, one-off kit cars and imports. A good mechanical knowledge is not essential but greatly beneficial. I’m here to support my team ensuring we move forward with technology, manage wellbeing and engagement, and ensure DVSA meets its objectives.

Good communication and empathy all help, as well as being able to adapt to a fast-paced environment. We must plan for the future whilst also being able to make quick decisions and amend our plans.

Since starting with the organisation 4 years ago,  I have seen significant change. Embracing technological advances has greatly improved the service for our customers. The DVSA values their staff and listens to their ideas. A colleague and I are working together on an idea we had to improve the process of recording Health and Safety issues, this project has been successful and will be implemented nationally across vehicle testing.

My career change to join the DVSA has really made me aware of the bigger picture of national road safety and all that is involved. The scope is extensive, and the opportunities match this. There are so many different areas and opportunities within DVSA it is difficult to quantify. I started as a vehicle standards assessor and progressed to TNM on a temporary basis. This opportunity led to me formally applying and being successful in getting the position permanently. I thrive on challenges and the range of responsibilities I’m given. I really enjoy supporting the front-line team and working with colleagues from other areas. The autonomy is great as it allows me to develop myself and my team on a local level whilst working with the training & development team to develop our staff.

I am looking forward to an exciting time and working within the DVSA for many years ahead. I am proud to tell people that I work within the DVSA , especially within the vital role of vehicle testing.