1) Best part of the Job
There are a number of reasons why working for Crown Agents makes me both happy and motivated to come to work every day. The people I am surrounded by are friendly, approachable and absolutely inspiring in their knowledge and what they achieve through their work. Our company is truly global and diverse and it is exciting to be connected to our global network of offices and to work with renowned international organisations, donors and country governments. Finally, it is incredibly rewarding to work for a company that delivers large-scale projects that truly make a positive difference to the lives of people living in the developing world.
2) Greatest challenges and how you have overcome them
My biggest challenge has probably been learning about the breadth of the field of international development teamed with the diverse range of areas that Crown Agents covers. We are such an established and varied organisation, working in a vast range of countries that even after 21 months, I am still learning new things about us! I have tried to overcome this is by speaking to as many people from across the company as possible, as well as conducting research and attending regular lunches and workshops held by staff explaining interesting themes and projects. Additionally, now that I have the chance to visit some of the countries that we work in, I have gained a more in-depth understanding of the company and our clients as well as the results and challenges in the field.
3) Team working environment
The team I work in is one of the best parts of my job. There is a real sense of collaboration, support and knowledge-sharing amongst us and every member has a different skill or expertise that adds real value to the team. We hold regular meetings and workshops to ensure we work best as a whole and learn from each other and we also organise regular social events outside of work. My manager is someone I truly look up to, who has been instrumental in helping me to grow and progress throughout my career.
4) Where have you travelled for work with CA?
After 18 months with the company, I have been lucky enough now to be posted in South Sudan as our representative following my involvement in various related research and bids. This assignment will also involve travel to our Uganda and Kenya offices and is proving to be an invaluable opportunity for me. I am really enjoying spending time in developing countries and seeing not only our projects in action, but meeting our partners and clients and gaining real perspective on the impact of our work.