What does a day in your shoes feel like? And what are the key skills that can make or break a career in your field?

We’ve asked a diverse group of Apolitical members to share their career story with us and the tips they have for junior public servants. In this article, Zenisha Chouhan explains why it’s important to be confident in your abilities in their role as an operational contract manager.

What is your current role and how do you spend your time on a standard day? My role is varied with commercial, policy and data analysis aspects. Main responsibilities are acting as an Operational Contract Manager for an analytical service and briefings. Analysing data and communicating with a wide range of stakeholders.

What did you do before taking up this role? I worked in a commercial role within another area of the department.

In your opinion, what are the most important skills someone needs to excel in your field? Team-working, clear written and oral communication, the ability to understand complex areas and make decisions/recommendations.

What is your favourite part of your job? Working on challenging areas and seeing the positive impact it can have.

What advice would you give to new public servants who are interested in a career in your field? Be confident in your abilities. You're probably doing better than you think and are more capable than you realise!

Want to share your own career story with the Apolitical community? Use this form to let us know about your job.

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