Daniel W.
About me
| Daniel W. | |
| Politics, Economics and Philosophy | |
| Politics, Philosophy and Economics | |
| Undergraduate | |
| James | |
| 2009 | |
| United Kingdom |
My employment
| Commercial Manager - Graduate Scheme | |
| Department for Work and Pensions | |
| United Kingdom | |
| Government and civil service | |
| Large business (250+ employees) | |
| 2013 |
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A day in the life of a Commercial Manager - Graduate Scheme in the United Kingdom
Commercial Manager in UK Government - my journey from PPE into a profession.
My career goals when I graduated
When I graduated I was keen to work in the public or charity sector, though didn't have much thought on a particular profession. I've sort of 'stumbled' into procurement, though increasingly I grown to enjoy it as a practical use of many elements of my degree.
My career history
After graduating I spent 4 years working in sales. This allowed me to develop my skills in a real life setting and put me in a good position for my current role.
I joined the Department for Work and Pensions in 2013, working on a range of projects whilst on their commercial graduate scheme. I hope to achieve my professional qualification in 2016 and then seek future challenges.
What has helped my career to progress
Persistance and patience. I didn't get the 'dream job' when I first left University, though by challenging myself and developing my skills I've found something that I really enjoy and get a sense of satisfaction from.
Courses taken since graduation
Currently studying towards the Procurement profession, with the goal of becoming a Member of the Chartered Institute of Procurement and Supply (MCIPS) in 2016.
How my studies have helped my career
My role actually combines a large chunk of my studies (well Politics and Economics at least) which means I have an active interest in my career field. Analytical and numeric skills that I developed at York are essential, and I have complemented these by studying towards a professional qualification.
What surprised me about my career so far
The fact that I fell into it and it suits me really well! When applying I had the opportunity to choose accountancy or procurement, felt that procurement sounded a lot more interesting, and am pleased I chose this path.
Where I hope to be in 5 years
Hopefully I will be a senior commercial manager, likely within the public or third sector. I've found something I really enjoy so intend to stay within the commercial profession, possibly looking at some accountancy training too - learning never ends.
My advice to students considering work
Experience is crucial. Nowadays it seems that organisations want candidates with both a good degree AND relevant experience or transferrable skills.
Whether you get this from work, voluteering, sport or a pastime - always think about how these will make you a more attractive candidate.
My advice about working in my industry
The public sector continues to shrink, but that doesn't mean there are no opportunities for graduates. Increasing privatisation and outsourcing has increased the role and importance of the commerial profession in government.
As always, do your research, look for internships and job shadowing opportunities. Whilst it helps to know people in the public sector, vacancies are almost always through a competitive process, so make sure you are well prepared for interview.
Other advice
Keep trying. If you want something you can't give up at the first hurdle. With the way the retirement age is going, you'll have time for two, maybe three careers anyway!
Contacting me
If you've got any questions you think I might be able to help with please get in touch.
If you are keen on a career within the public sector or the commercial profession, I'm happy to act as a mentor to provide some insight to help inform your career choices.
What I do
Manage the commercial relationships between UK government and its suppliers, from strategic sourcing through to contract management. This has been through a variety of commercial placements on a graduate scheme whilst studying for the MCIPS qualification.
Skills I use and how I developed them
Analytical, Research, Negotiation, Numeric, Persuasion,
All in a variety of contexts dependant on the current project, developed at school, university and the workplace.
What I like most
Running a procurement exercise and saving a shed load of money. It's a really satisfying achievement, and even better if it's for the public good!
The scale of work is vast, small contracts are worth millions, and the larger ones are impacting people's lives on a daily basis, through support into employment or medical assessments. To be able to be part of something which can make a huge difference is both challenging and rewarding.
What I like least
Paperwork and relentless audit trails!
Sitting exams again - 15 exams over 3 years has kept me busy.
What surprised me most
The diversity of careers you can have in government. Even within DWP alone, their are professional opportunities in finance, commericial, policy, strategy, HR, etc, so there is always a way to quickly switch your career path.
Next steps...
If you like the look of Daniel’s profile, the next steps are down to you! You can send Daniel a message to find out more about their career journey. If you feel you would benefit from more in-depth conversations, ask Daniel to be your mentor.