Harriet B.
About me
| Harriet B. | |
| Social Policy and Social Work | |
| Master of Public Administration | |
| Taught Postgraduate | |
| Wentworth | |
| 2019 | |
| United Kingdom |
My employment
| Global Business Operations Manager | |
| Publicis Groupe | |
| United Kingdom | |
| Advertising, marketing and PR |
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A day in the life of a Global Business Operations Manager in the United Kingdom
Briefly describe the organisation you work for
I work for Publicis Groupe, one of the biggest global advertising agencies.
What do you do?
I progressed from project management into business operations. Day to day tasks involve aligned operating processes for the client team, ensuring we can be as efficient as possible. This includes looking at the skillsets of the teams involved and how we can maximise their output. I also do some project management with the rollout of new software.
Reflecting upon your past employment and education, what led you to your current career choice?
I worked in events as a teenager and my first job after finishing my undergraduate. I wanted to move into project work while completing my masters (from York!) so I moved into advertising to get some broad experience.
Is your current job sector different from what you thought you would enter when you graduated?
Absolutely! I still want to move into the public sector, but I am learning so much where I am that I think I will stick with this for a while!
Describe your most memorable day at work
This would have to be when I organised the transport project management for the Olympics and had to coordinate Prince Harry's arrival into the Olympic Park Aquatics venue!
Are there any challenges associated with your job?
I deal with a broad range of stakeholders, predominantly internal but their level of seniority and experience varies so it's a constant juggling act to get the right people involved and to manage the egos!
What’s your work environment and culture like?
I'm writing this in June 2020 when we're in the midst of the covid-19 pandemic, so my environment has changed a lot this year! I now work from home every day but we've managed to maintain the fun culture by having weekly social quizzes and daily chats with the team.
What extracurricular activities did you undertake at university and what transferable skills did you develop through these?
I continued to work in events while studying which really helped me have something to talk about when I graduated. This meant I was able to demonstrate that I can manage my time, I can prioritise tasks and I'm committed to my personal and professional growth, all things people like to see when hiring someone new!
What would you like to do next with your career?
I'm hoping to move into a Chief of Staff role at the same business. This is something that traditionally exists within the military or politics, but is being seen increasingly within businesses. I think it will be such a great opportunity to learn about the business and grow hugely into my potential future roles.
What top tips do you have for York students preparing for today’s job market and life after graduation?
Think about what you want to do next. This first job is important but where do you want it to lead..? This will help you to develop within your role as you'll have a key goal you're aiming for. But don't worry if your future goals change once you're in a job - everyone has a more 'squiggly career' nowadays, you learn from every experience.
What topics from students are you happy to answer questions on?
Going back to study a masters later on; Advertising industry; Project Management.
Next steps...
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