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The official annual careers publication for Skills Jersey
www.jerseyskillsshow.com
D Welcome
Welcome
to this year's Direction Magazine
I hope that you will find this years' edition thought provoking and invaluable: it is packed full of inspiration and knowledge, not only
about different careers and pathways with some great biographies but also the activities and services available to you to ensure that you are equipped with the skills and knowledge to fulfil your aspirations in the changing world around us.
This year, the Skills show on Friday 19 October 2018 is in both the Gloucester and Queens Hall at Fort Regent. It is going to be the biggest and best yet, with new industries included, for example agriculture, and a section dedicated to digital skills, to mark the end of the tech week. I would like to take this opportunity to encourage you to attend, and experience potential careers come to life in a practical and interactive manner. You may even find something which you have never thought about before which excites you.
Another new this year is the introduction of our skills coaches – this is an exciting new development which you can read more about in the magazine.
We are living in a world of change, from GCSE gradings to exciting new job opportunities emerging in a global and technology advanced world. However,
amongst this change, one thing is consistent, the requirement for a skilled workforce, agile, mobile and responsive to change. Investment in both skills and positive career choices are essential. Whilst each individual is responsible for their own development and career, there is plenty of advice and assistance
available – and this magazine will give you a taster.
Finally, I would like to thank all the people who have given their time and shared their stories in the pages that follow to encourage and inspire you.
Christine Walwyn
Chief Operating Officer Education
D Contents
What s inside?
ADVICE AND TRAINING
Who are Skills Jersey?
Skills Jersey Mission Statement Careers Guidance
Connect With Education
Skills Coaching
Digital, Vocational & Technical Skills After Education
Support for Higher Education
The New GCSE Grades
Education Timeline
Learning Through Work
Skills and Attributes
Trident Work Experience
Trackers
JOB PROFILES
FINANCE
BNP Paribas
First Names Group KPMG
HSBC
AGRICULTURE
Engineering Manager
Farm Manager
Head of Quality
Technical Director
Farm Manager
Director of Sales and Marketing
CONSTRUCTION
Solar PV Installer
Site Advisor
Head of Property & Asset Management Support Services Manager
Civil Engineer
Assistant Mechanical Engineer
DIGITAL
Consultant
Digital Marketing Director Marketing Manager Entrepreneur
Director
Freelance Filmmaker / Animator Director
HOSPITALITY
Group Manager
Group Manager & Co-Owner Head Chef
Managing Director
RETAIL
Business Manager / Buyer
Interior Design Business Owner
Business Owner & Florist
Business Owner
BEST OF THE REST
Recruitment Consultant & Brand Manager General Practitioner
Tax Manager
Occupational Therapist
Historical Environment Records Assistant PR Account Manager
Cricket Development Manager
Claims Handler
Zoo Keeper
Graduate Stylist
Core Technical Services Apprentice Marine Engineer
Teaching Assistant
Yoga Teacher
D Skills Jersey
Who are Skills Jersey?
Skills Jersey, which includes Careers Guidance, Trident, Trackers and Student Finance, is part of the Children, Young People, Education and Skills Department. It is a centre of
excellence with clear links connecting education and lifelong learners with industry.
What Skills Jersey can offer?
Careers Guidance:
The Careers Guidance team offer free, confidential and impartial careers guidance to people of all ages including school pupils, 16+ students and adults.
For further information go to page 8
Connect with Education:
Offering links between schools, colleges, universities, industry and other education training providers, Skills Jersey is the hub where industry and education can work together to benefit the local community.
For further information go to page 11
Learning through Work
Whether it is mentoring apprentices through employment and training
or coordinating work placement and shadowing schemes, Skills Jersey supports Islanders to make informed decisions leading to their future employment.
For further information go to page 18
Contact us for further information 01534 449440
skillsjersey@gov.je www.gov.je/skillsjersey
Skills Jersey is dedicated to empowering local
people of all ages to have the ability to choose and achieve positive career, life and learning goals,
aligning with the needs of the island, in collaboration with industry.
Skills Jersey s mission statement
D Testimonials
Careers Guidance Testimonials
Incredibly helpful and really appreciated to be able to talk through my position independently and get some guidance support and advice was great I ve also already had 2 call backs from my CV - thank you
Helped me establish which At my first career path interests me, by
appointment I had no giving me career ideas I d never idea what I wanted to do. even thought of before.
After being given advice
and plenty of websites
to look on I now know Based on the appointment I would exactly what it is I want have given up looking for a different to do in the future and job, because the recruitment process how to get there seemed confusing and daunting
It was tailored towards my specific needs and was well-structured so that we knew that we had covered
all the necessary queries by the end of the session
Really professional and gave me a lot of motivation and confidence
Skills Coaching: Digital, Vocational for young people & Technical skills
Skills Jersey is leading on creating industry/
Our Skills Coach team: education partnerships on the island, so that the Works with school age children to help them skills being developed in schools and beyond are
connect their school studies with the world of work matched to the needs of our work sector
Helps young people discover their interests and
strengths through visits to workplaces together with The first programme to be launched is Primary Engineer coaching and mentoring sessions which will see teachers and engineers training together to
Brings industry experts to speak in the classroom deliver real-life design activities to students in schools. The
problem-solving skills and aptitudes required by engineers are replicated across many other career roles and this particular focus on the STEM subjects should result in a positive impact on the future career prospects for many of our young people in schools.
What do students do after GCSE s?
Further Education Trackers Foundation Programme Further education (FE) includes any study after The Trackers foundation apprenticeship is a
secondary education. On island opportunities open oneyear full-time programme for 16 to18 year to students are: olds.
A levels It will benefit:
those who have an idea of which career path they would In Jersey we have the following providers that offer like to go into but have not yet found employment
A-level qualifications or equivalent: those who are unsure of their career path and would like to Victoria College Jersey and Jersey College For Girls gain experience in different industries
are selective, fee paying States of Jersey schools
De La Salle College and Beaulieu Convent school The programme runs from September 2018 to June 2019 are independent Catholic non selective schools and includes:
Hautlieu is non fee paying states school that accepts Two days a week work experience placement in
students at 14 plus chosen area
Two days a week personal development and 6th form college employability training
There are a wide variety of vocational Level 3 One day a week completing a customer
service qualification
courses at Highlands College. The opportunity to retake Maths & English up to Level 2
This programme runs term time only.
Connect With Education D
If you are looking for a job, there a many things you This is an area of Skills Jersey that looks at can do to help yourself. opportunities for all islanders within higher
education.
Employment agencies, recruitment and company websites,
newspapers and social media are all places you might Its breadth is large as it not only focuses on off island see jobs being advertised. However many jobs aren t opportunities but also the increasing range of on-Island advertised and it s worth thinking about how you can degrees.
access the hidden job market through your family, friends
and network. Being in any job means you will quickly build Students now have more ways of studying for higher level a network of contacts within industry. education than ever before and with the introduction of
higher level apprenticeships in the engineering and digital
sectors in academic year 18/19, students have an opportunity For younger job seekers from 16-25 years old there to work and study with support like never before.
are a number of helpful services. The higher level apprenticeship is an area of huge potential
for critical skill shortage areas in Jersey and it would be Provided by the Social Security Department, wthey ill great to see this grow over the next few years.
provide you with an Employment Adviser to help you with
applications, your CV, interview prep and they have access 2018 has been an important year for higher education as to advertised jobs through a dedicated recruitment team. the recent proposition to increase funding for university
courses was increased dramatically and was voted in by
the assembly unanimously. This means that a university education should now be open to more students of any age.
Offer Team' and Get into' programmes provide
training and work placement which also help to Skills Jersey are also working with key stakeholders in prepare your confidence and experience to succeed. Jersey on a Higher Education Strategy. The strategy will
be looking at what is offered on-Island and how this can
not only be increased but also tailored to the critical skills
areas. It will look at partner universities and relationships Some students prefer to take some time out after with universities off-Island, both UK and abroad, so that their A-levels to decide the next step, this can be Jersey can align itself to more specialist institutes for a worthwhile break allowing the student to really individual subjects. In addition, it will look at being more
innovative in how degrees are taught, so that they are think about what route would benefit them best. more flexible and affordable, whilst retaining quality.
Giving them time to undertake a whole host of activities. Some students spend their gap year working and saving preparing for university, some prefer to travel and others undertake volunteering to build up new skills and experiences. A gap year should have a clear structure with identifiable achievements. This will enable the student to talk positively about the experience in an interview and demonstrate how it helped them grow as a person.
Support for Higher Education
Student Finance are a small team within Skills Jersey, who assess and
administers Higher Education applications for funding. We offer a grant for those wishing to study for a degree, be it on or off Island. 4
Students can apply for this grant to help towards University fees and living costs. The grant is means tested and the amount that you will There are 3 members of staff in the receive is based on household income. We take parents and/or their Student Finance team
partners' or students income, depending on the family situation.
WWdegre ashaees and prt csisourses do yt with 1soft under gresou assional possisaduat witht te ? WStage 1hat is the application process? 245
In 2017/18 our students attended 245 graduate degrees only such as Complete the online application form
PGCE, LPC. If the postgraduate www.gov.je/applyforstudentfinance. different universities across the world degree you are interested in taking Forms are to be received into the
is a non-professional , then there department by 31st March, for the year
for. Please visit www.gov.je for further please contact Student Finance for 12,036
is a competitive award called the that they will be starting Uni. If your
Jersey Bursary that you can apply start date is not a September start,
information on this. advice. The University farthest away from Jersey that a Jersey student attends is
What financial assistance could I Stage 2 University of Otago in New Zealand, receive from Student Finance? You will receive a letter confirming which is approximately 12,036 miles For the current academic year that we have received your away. The most popular place to
Shelp ftudent Financor Jersey se prtudents who wovides financial ant to Statement form (HE2). A link will also study for Higher Education during go to university or college to study be sent to the students email address 2017/18 was Highlands. Outside of
application form along with an Income
for their first undergraduate degree (HE7 notification of results) Jersey, Brighton University was the or other recognised higher education most popular. This is no surprise as course. The amount you receive is Stage 3 Brighton historically has a very close The first element is the tuition fees Cfoormmpalentde rtehteu rinn ctohmis etos ttahtee msteundtent relationship with Jersey and has been
means-tested and has two elements.
and we will pay a maximum of £9,250 finance office along with a copy of one of the top choices for many years. for a standard course, extra funding the Notice of Assessment you will
may be available for Medicine, receive from the tax office.
Dentistry and Veterinary Medicine
courses. The second element is the Stage 4 (August time)
maintenance grant and we will pay Once the results are available and
up to £7,500 for a standard course, unconditional offer letters have been
again, extra funding will be available received complete the HE7 form.
for certain Medicine, Dentistry and
Veterinary Medicine courses. Our advice to students
Take the time to research what
The maximum grant that is available options are most appropriate for you.
from the department will not cover This is a huge financial investment
all the costs and therefore, a parent and it can be an expensive mistake
and student will have to cover this to make. Do not listen to what your
shortfall. There are a number of friends have to say about what you
Bursaries available, so students need will or will not be entitled to from
to do research and apply for any Student Finance. Your situation could
relevant ones in good time. If you be very different.
receive a bursary from a local firm,
they might want you to work with
them during the holidays, this will not
only provide you with extra funds but
invaluable work experience, some
universities also offer bursaries based
on academic levels and we advise all
student and parents to research this
whilst looking at Universities. Unlike
the UK, the amount that you receive is
a grant and does not need to be paid
back, unless you do not complete and
pass the degree.
Education timeline
A list of important reminders
YEAR 10/11
Trident placement
Throughout Year 10
Post 16 options evening September / October
Highlands & Hautlieu experience days
November
Post 16 application in school deadlines
Beginning of December
Final deadline for post 16 applications
January
Highlands transition days
June
GCSE results day
22nd August
Year 11 Brighton & Sussex Medical
School roadshow
August
Connect With Education D
YEAR 13 - A-LEVELS
UCAS in school application Deadline: October half term
UCAS & UCJ final application Deadline: 15th January
Student Finance applications open
1st January
A-Level results day
15th August
Information subject to change - please check with either your school or Skills Jersey
Schemes
Whether it is mentoring apprentices through employment and training or coordinating work placement and shadowing schemes, Skills Jersey supports Islanders to make informed decisions leading to their future employment.
Trident Work Young Enterprise Years 10 & 11 Shadowing Company
(14/15 years) Schemes Programme
Years 12 & 13 (17 years, Year 12)
(17/18 years - 6th form)
Trident Work Experience two/three Institute of Directors/Chartered Between September and May week placements between Feb and Institute of Marketing/Jersey around 70 students experience July (depending on school) and in Construction Council Work directly the trials and successes of Oct (Victoria College) Shadowing schemes (placements running their own company under
usually during the summer break) the guidance of mentors from the An introduction to the experience business community.
of work. Students spend two or Involves a rigorous competitive
three weeks of curriculum time out application process for students. Each student will assume a role of school and in the work place. A panel of business professionals within the company e.g. Managing At this stage most have never critique the covering letter, CV Director, Sales & Marketing Director, worked so the concept is totally and interview performance of Finance Director etc. - including new to them - the aim is to give students before recommending deputy roles to each directorship. them a chance to see what different them to shadow a senior business, The teams are mixed from all of working environments are like, instil marketing or construction the island s secondary schools so a work ethos and start to develop professional for up to five days. that students will be working with basic life/employability skills. Whilst The aim of the scheme is to allow people they may not know.
they are in the work place they can young people to appreciate the
learn all of these for themselves skills required for these professions
[by doing them] rather than being and to experience a realistic job
told what is expected of them in a application process.
classroom setting which is never
as effective.
D Learning Through Work
Skills & Attributes
What skills and attributes will my employer expect of me when I start work – and how can I evidence them by taking part in the Post-16 schemes?
Reliable/Flexible/ Problem Solving/ Business Awareness/ Responsible Decision Making Customer Care
Young Enterprise you will commit Young Enterprise helping your Young Enterprise running your around 4 hours per week between team to run your own company own company enables you to see September and May. You will will throw up plenty of decision all aspects of a business including assume a Director s role within making and problem solving customer service.
the company and be responsible opportunities.
for completing the associated Work Shadowing by sitting tasks. Able to use Initiative alongside a business leader you
Young Enterprise as a Director of will have a first-hand insight into Work Shadowing arranging a YE company, showing initiative the skills and attributes required the initial interview, attending to deal with issues and challenges to lead a successful company. meetings with your manager, will be part of your role. If you shadow a Marketing making sure you re dressed Work Shadowing doing plenty of or Construction role you will appropriately and being well research and being well prepared. appreciate the challenges and prepared. rewards of that business.
Organise/Prioritise/
Self-Confident Time Management Applied Use Of Numbers Young Enterprise during the Young Enterprise as a Director Young Enterprise work out costs
course of the scheme you will of your YE company you ll be and profit margins, understand work with a variety of people required to meet deadlines value for money, purchase and including your business advisers, at the same time you need to supply, working to a budget.
customers, your bank and organise your academic studies
suppliers of your products or effectively. Work Shadowing experience services. first-hand from practitioners
Work Shadowing doing plenty of the realities of business
Work Shadowing the application research and being well prepared finance management.
includes attending a panel for your interview and placement.
interview with constructive
feedback a good way to build Good Communication
your confidence for the real thing.
Young Enterprise communication
skills whether they be verbal,
Good Team Worker written, formal or informal there
Young Enterprise working in a are plenty of opportunities to
team of 16 other students from all practice and refine these skills with
of the island s secondary schools. people from all levels.
You may be working with people
you don t know at first and Work Shadowing develop your
sometimes with people who are communication skills during
not your friends just like real life! the application process which
includes a panel interview and
during your placement where you
may be speaking to other senior
managers and clients.
20
Trident Work Experience
Trident Work experience is an opportunity for all students in Jersey to undertake work experience for two or three weeks during year 10 or 11. Trident is part of Skills Jersey and each year we organise placements for over 1000 students from all the Islands schools. This can only happen with the support of hundreds of local businesses and organisations. For many students this is their first experience of the working world and is the start of their vocational journey. So why is work experience so important?
Work Experience can bring the curriculum to life by showing how subjects can be applied and valued in the workplace.
The advantages of work According to the British Chamber of experience include: Commerce, the entry level skills that
businesses value the most are:
Insight into the world of work
Increased knowledge of certain
industries 88% Communication
Enhanced or more realistic career
aspirations 69% Literacy
Insider advice from employees;
improved work-readiness
Benefits in relation to motivation, 64% Numeracy
engagement, self-esteem and the
expansion of personal networks 56% IT Skills
Trident Testimonials 53% Teamwork
I feel I have developed a lot of skills and 36% Problem solving
furthered my knowledge of food hugely. I have
also developed a good understanding of what
it s like to have a career in this field of work. It 36% Planning and Organisation has motivated me to work harder at school.
I feel I developed my communication skills with both adults and Placed at Longueville Manor children. I also learnt that there is a lot more work required in
teaching than you see as a student. I was kept busy and was able to show initiative and independence.
Emma has grown in confidence and developed her
skills in dealing with elderly Placed at First Tower School residents. She is empathetic
and diplomatic whilst
maintaining a good sense of I developed my work ethic humour. and understanding of how to
act in a working environment.
Maison St Brelade
Placed at H&SS Engineering
Dc Swart
Describe a typical day at work.
There are no dull moments, and a typical day would consist of dealing with client queries and requests, ensuring that all deliverables are on track, assisting other team members and dealing with any ad hoc queries that might turn up.
What do you think are the three most important skills to succeed in your job?
I would consider good planning, communication and people skills to be the key factors to success.
Was this something you planned to do or did you change direction at any point in the past? What was that and was it easy to do?
I was an auditor and my experience stretched from small retail companies and manufacturers to mega mines in West Africa.
I knew the financial sector would be a new challenge, but I enjoy every second. Being an auditor for a couple of years and the experience I gained in various sectors made my change in direction easy.
What do you love most about working in your career area?
I love working with figures and seeing how all the transactions come together. I do believe that my career has the perfect balance between working with figures and at the same time dealing with clients and team members.
Are there any negative aspects of working in your career that people considering it should be aware of?
I don t think there is a career in the world without any negative aspects, you just need to find a career in which you are willing to embrace the negative ups and downs. One point to consider is that there will be very busy times, when lots of transactions are taking place with funds, which can be quite demanding.
What training/qualifications did you undertake for your current role or are you currently undertaking?
I went to university and completed my degree in accounting.
I then obtained two honours degrees in accounting. After university, I joined KPMG in South Africa for three years where
I completed an audit trainee contract and registered as a Chartered Accountant South Africa (SAICA) in 2016. I ve been in practice since then.
Is there any other information that would be of interest to someone thinking of this career?
It s a good career to gain a wide range of experience which can be used internationally. The Financial Services sector, including Fund services are a well-known sector internationally.
Mathew Gollop
Describe a typical day at work.
Ultimately my role is to assist our Relationship Managers and ensure that our clients receive a first class service. Due to the nature of my client facing role, my workloads differ on a day to day basis, which is good because it keeps my days interesting and allows me to develop further when I come across a task which is new to me.
What do you think are the three most important skills to succeed in your job?
To be strong in communication, determination and organisation.
Was this something you planned to do or did you change direction at any point in the past? What was that and was it easy to do?
Following my time at Highlands College, I went straight into banking and have been working in the industry ever since, except for a 12 month period in which I worked with my father in his maritime recruitment agency. After my first role in banking
I knew it was something I wanted to pursue and my long term target was to work specifically within the Private Banking sector.
What do you love most about working in your career area?
I really enjoy the communication and interactive side of the role: as my role is client facing it involves me not only speaking with clients, but also with colleagues in different areas within the bank.
Are there any negative aspects of working in your career are that people considering it should be aware of?
I wouldn t give any negative comments or bad feedback on working in the banking industry; it s a career in which you need to be organised and prepared to be pushed a little out of your comfort zone at times. However, at the same time your hard work is recognised and rewarded.
What training/qualifications did you undertake for your current role or are you currently undertaking?
I ve recently enrolled with CISI and will be undertaking the level 4 Investment Advice Diploma in the coming months. This qualification will allow me to provide investment advice and I will be recognised as a regulated individual.
Is there any other information that would be of interest to someone thinking of this career?
Jersey is famous for its finance industry and it s fantastic for
us, due to the amount of opportunities it brings locally. Every person is different and that s where banking is beneficial as there are so many different job roles available to suit any individual s personality or goals. Another benefit of working within the finance industry are the opportunities we may have to work abroad which is something that really interests me and is realistic in my line of work.
ADVERTORIAL B
Eon De Jongh
Describe a typical day at work.
Managing and assisting my team to ensure our client deliverables are on track with reporting deadlines, along with the provision of the necessary support to allow our clients to do what they do best, providing value to their investors.
What do you think are the three most important skills to succeed in your job?
In this line of work I think the most important skills are communication, decision making and time management.
Was this something you planned to do or did you change direction at any point in the past? What was that and was it easy to do?
Funnily enough I ve always wanted to be an accountant, my dad worked in finance and I always admired and respected his work ethic.
What do you love most about working in your career area? It challenges me. Maintaining the balance between client expectations, the abilities of the team and your own expectations are key. To do this effectively requires constant communication with all parties, which I ve been told is perfect for me as I could talk all day!
Are there any negative aspects of working in your career are that people considering it should be aware of?
It can be stressful at times but with a strong team and positive working environment you feel supported.
What training/qualifications did you undertake for your current role or are you currently undertaking?
I obtained two degrees (B.Acc and B.Acc Honours) at the University of Stellenbosch, South Africa. During this time, I also did a three year audit internship with KPMG whilst completing two Board exams to qualify as a Chartered Accountant (South African Institute of Chartered Accountants). Currently, I m preparing for my CFA Level 1 (Chartered Financial Analyst) exams in December which is being supported by BNP Paribas.
Is there any other information that would be of interest to someone thinking of this career?
It s a long and winding road to becoming a qualified accountant, you will make some sacrifices along the way but it s all worth it in the end.
Vicky Jelisejeva
Describe a typical day at work.
My typical day at work involves administration of all Fiduciary related functions and services within my portfolio of clients which involves responding to various queries, requests and instructions. Each day is varied which helps to keep the role interesting and at the same time I am continuously learning.
What do you think are the three most important skills to succeed in your job?
Being a great team player is important in this job, we are a small team and it is crucial for us to effectively communicate with each other. You also need to have a great eye for detail and excellent communication skills as we are constantly liaising with professionals within various fields.
Was this something you planned to do or did you change direction at any point in the past? What was that and was it easy to do?
Prior to my current role I worked in the company secretarial sector, when I started studying ICSA I became very interested in Trust hence why I decided to venture into this role. The transition has been challenging, but the knowledge I have acquired during my ICSA studies has contributed to a smooth transition.
What do you love most about working in your career area? What I love most about my career area is that I am directly involved in multiple projects and have the opportunity to engage with clients on various aspects. I thoroughly enjoy working with my team, we work very well together.
What training/qualifications did you undertake for your current role or are you currently undertaking?
This year I will be undertaking the Investments module which will be my last exam for ICSA Level 4 Certificate in International Finance and Administration. Once achieved, I will then progress to undertake the ICSA Level 5 Diploma.
Is there any other information that would be of interest to someone thinking of this career?
My advice is to be open to new opportunities and be
confident to step out of your comfort zone. I would also advise undertaking relevant professional studies as this will give you in- depth expertise with your day to day tasks.
The Group first set up in the Channel Islands in 1979 and has grown along with the development of Jersey as a financial centre specialising in private wealth management and institutional asset management, fund and securities services.
Across the Channel Islands, our professional team works to offer our customers a wide range of services and products, providing innovative, customised solutions. BNP Paribas teams are committed to ensuring that the bank contributes every day to the success of everyone who places their confidence in us and to the progress of society as a whole.
For more information contact:
Catherine Harzo
815200 | catherine.harzo@je.bnpparibas.com BNP Paribas S.A., Jersey Branch
IFC1, The Esplanade, St Helier, Jersey, JE1 5BP www.bnpparibas.je
First Names Group is a leading independent provider of trust, fund, corporate and real estate administration services. They've been in the business for over 25 years and in 2018 became part of SGG Group, which means they're now part of the world's fourth largest global investor services firm (by revenue)
and currently employ over 1,700
people across 22 jurisdictions.
Eoin Lynam
...is one of the first students to embark on their newly launched two year trainee program, aimed at school leavers looking towards a career within the finance industry.
There are a lot of trainee programs out there, what made you choose the one offered by First Names Group?
I d already made the decision to work in the finance industry but didn t know which area I wanted to go into. When I saw the two year program at First Names Group gives trainees the opportunity to work across different areas, I knew this was exactly what I was after.
Getting the opportunity to move around the business every six months whilst gaining experience means I ll see which interests me the most and, more importantly, which is the right fit for me. Gaining practical experience will be invaluable when the time comes to make my decision about my future career path and I ll also be able to decide on which professional qualification to take, another motivator for choosing to apply.
First Names Group is such a people focused business, making everyone feel involved in all their global locations. There are loads of sports teams, social events and opportunities to get involved in local charity
initiatives too. I m really looking forward to this as I ve always found throwing yourself into sports helps you make new friends.
How did you go about applying for the program?
It was advertised at school and the application process was really straightforward. I sent my CV to Abbie Cardy, explained why I was interested and a few days later I was invited to an interview.
During the interview I was instantly put at ease. I realise now that as a people focussed business it s really important for them to have the right fit and that s why they really focused on my personality, thoughts, perspectives, experiences and individuality.
I was lucky enough to get one of the four positions available. I wasn t rushed into making a decision, and was given time to think about the offer to make sure it was the right move for me. Applying early and securing my place really helped as I was coming up to my A-level exams
and I didn t have the pressure of applying for jobs and studying at the same time.
What part of the program are you looking forward to the most?
Exploring the different areas of First Names Group, as it will give me the chance to find the career path that suits me. There is also an added bonus at the end of two years where I can opt to take a three month sabbatical to go travelling, do some charity work or simply do something I ve always wanted to do, before getting stuck into my chosen role.
What would you say to someone who is thinking about applying to the program?
Go for it! The finance industry has so many different career paths it can be really daunting trying to find out which one is the right for you. There aren t many programs that give you the chance to gain practical experience where you can really explore which area of a business you are most suited to.
Great support, early responsibility, and fascinating clients; these are just some
of the many factors that help to make KPMG in the Channel Islands a top employer. We offer the opportunity to gain an accountancy qualification or a degree in digital solutions. At KPMG, we value diversity and are keen to hear from students from a variety of backgrounds.
Sophie Henri McGranahan Merrony
Job title Tax Consultant
Company KPMG in the Channel Islands
What do you think the 3 most important skills for your job are?
Time management - Working full time and studying can be difficult! You need to be ready to put the effort in and learn how to manage your time accordingly. Luckily, KPMG in the Channel Islands offer a great support system.
Organisation - Prioritising and managing your workload is hugely important, especially when it comes to meeting deadlines.
Communication - We communicate with clients and colleagues on a daily basis, which makes these skills essential.
What do you love most about your career?
I enjoy the variety working in tax provides; from working with large banks and trust companies, to individuals. I was recently given the opportunity to go on secondment to one of our clients; a great experience that allowed me to embrace new skills and meet new people. I also work alongside a good team, who are experts in their field and fun to work with.
What training / qualifications have you done?
I ve just passed my finals for the ACA qualification. There were 15 exams in total. I need to finish my 450 days of work experience before becoming a fully qualified Chartered Accountant, which will hopefully be in February next year.
Is there any other information that would be of interest to someone thinking of this career?
I would recommend work experience before applying for a full time role to ensure this is the career for you. KPMG in the Channel Islands have a number of work experience opportunities for University and A-Level students, which allow you to practice your skill sets and could secure you a job in the future.
Job title Audit Assistant Company KPMG in the Channel Islands
What do you think the three most important skills for your job are?
Attention to detail, problem solving skills and communication.
What do you love most about your career?
The people and the social activities KPMG in the Channel Islands offer.
What training / qualifications have you done?
To date, I have completed six exams towards my accountancy qualification with ACCA.
Is there any other information that would be of interest to someone thinking of embarking on a career in audit?
Put in the hard work and you ll reap the rewards.
As one of the world's largest financial organisations, HSBC is an inclusive and internationally connected organisation, offering attractive benefits and rewarding career development opportunities.
We offer a great platform for you to enjoy a fulfilling career, working with colleagues and customers worldwide whether that s in retail, commercial and investment banking, or key support functions like finance, human resources, technology, risk and marketing.
With more than 1,200 people working for HSBC across the Channel Islands and Isle of Man and approximately 250,000 people globally, you ll be part of one big team.
We re an ambitious, growing and diverse business where our people are achieving great things all the time. We offer a complete package of pay and flexible benefits to support your professional and personal needs and there s much more we do to help your career development. Locally we have a vibrant and active sports and social scene with events taking place throughout the year and our sports and social committee are always keen for new members and ideas.
People are at the heart of our business: we hire the best people and we give you back the very best.
We celebrate diversity: you ll work in a friendly, supportive and inclusive environment where we develop and promote people based on merit.
Together as a community: getting involved in community projects, charitable fundraising and volunteering are part of who we are.
Achieve your potential: we offer you tailored training and support to help find and develop your dream career.
To find out more, get in touch with our HR team on hroperations.ci&iom@hsbc.com
Connor Jackson
Retail Banking and Wealth Management
Had you considered working for a bank, before joining HSBC? No. I d just completed my Building Services Engineering course at Highlands College and suddenly realised it wasn t the sector I wanted to work in. A friend recommended HSBC to me. I applied for and got a Premier Associate job. That was three years ago. My career has really taken off since then, I ve had three different jobs and I m now a qualified Client Relationship Manager.
What do you love most about working for HSBC?
The investment in and rewards for employees. Last year I was lucky enough to go on an all-expenses-paid trip to Paris for a week, as part of their Circle of Excellence Awards, for the top 1% performers. I met colleagues from all around the world. I knew HSBC was a global company but it wasn t until I started working for them that I realised how vast their global presence was and how supportive they are if you would like to work for them in another country. I m hoping to move to Hong Kong in the next twelve months.
What qualifications do you need for your job?
My first job as an Associate didn t require a degree or finance related qualification and training was provided on the job. Now I have an Investment Advice Diploma, which I achieved with the Chartered Institute for Securities and Investment (CISI). HSBC paid my course fees.
What is a typical day like?
A combination of meetings and client calls. I ll regularly carry out a full review of my client files, looking at ways we can improve their portfolios, such as re-mortgaging a property, better savings rates and investments and currency exchanges.
What three words best describe HSBC? World of opportunity.
Would you recommend working at HSBC to a friend? Yes, I already have and he s now working for HSBC. After joining as an Associate, his career has taken off and he s currently the Manager in one of our contact centres.
ADVERTORIAL H
Kirsty Robson
Retail Banking and Wealth Management
Had you considered working for a bank, before joining HSBC? No, I worked in Beauty previously. I had always assumed you d need a degree to work for a bank. Despite being a manager of a global cosmetics brand, it hadn t occurred to me that my skills were transferable until I sat down with a recruitment advisor who highlighted all my relevant skills.
What do you love most about working for HSBC?
It s like being part of one big family. Everyone is very welcoming, there are lots of opportunities to progress your career and in so many different areas. They are very supportive and incredibly flexible.
What qualifications do you need for your job? I didn t need a specific finance qualification or a degree to work for HSBC, all the training was provided when I started work.
What is a typical day like?
Varied. My team looks after 40,000 customers based all over the world from the UK to Australia and everywhere in between, so there s a lot going on. My day is a mixture of economic reviews, customer due diligence and administration. I also deputise for the management team.
What three words best describe HSBC? Fun, friendly, fulfilling.
Would you recommend working at HSBC to a friend?
Yes. There s so much more on offer than salary and a great overall benefits package. The people are lovely and I m learning something new every day. The career possibilities and the opportunity for personal growth, in areas you might not have thought existed within a bank, are fantastic. I m just about to move into a new role as a Business Support Manager.
Matthew Richards
Commercial Banking
Had you considered working for a bank before joining HSBC? Yes. I knew I wanted to work in finance industry so I studied International Financial Services at Jersey International Business School (JIBS). My course included a two day per week work placement. I applied for five or six positions but the HSBC interview was relaxed and fun so they were my obvious choice.
What do you love most about working for HSBC? The global career opportunities. During my interview I specifically asked whether I could build a global career with them and if they d help me move around the world. Their answer was yes.
Everyone is really friendly and easy going regardless of their seniority and they re very supportive of people s educational and career development.
What qualifications do you need for your job? None as such, training is provided. While you don t need a degree or specific qualification to carry out my job, I ve found my financial services degree really useful in areas such as trust law.
What is a typical day like?
Busy. Every day there are new challenges and opportunities to learn. I predominantly carry out our Know Your Client (KYC) customer due diligence work, liaising and meeting with our clients and teams internally to ensure we meet regulatory deadlines.
What three words best describe HSBC? Global, opportunity, development.
Would you recommend working at HSBC to a friend?
Yes. It s challenging but the rewards are great in terms of benefits such as pension and health insurance and continuous personal development. The career development and global opportunities are fantastic.
Introduction to the
Agriculture Industry
Have you ever thought about what the agriculture industry in Jersey consists of? At its core, agriculture may be about managing livestock and managing crops, but to do these things you need people with a range of other skills.
You need people who can manage the health of the soil or animals on a farm, to work out the best way to produce seeds and to plant a crop and how best to raise a herd. You need people who can look after farm equipment, manage the health and safety on farms and ensure that they conform to legislation. People are also needed to market what the industry produces, to manage the farm business and look after its employees. This makes agriculture a very diverse industry.
Daniel Rogers
Jersey Dairy
Typical day to day activities on-site consist of planning maintenance of the machines, planning for new projects, organising of tasks for the site engineers, responding and fixing breakdowns of machines electrical and mechanical.
What do you think are the three most important skills to succeed in your career area?
You need to be able to handle pressure well.
You need to be able to work alone and well as a team player. Dedicated to learn all the time as technology advances.
Was this something you planned to do or did you change direction at any point in the past? If so, what was that and was it easy to do?
I always wanted a hands on career, I sent over 100 letters to electrical employers before finally getting a role as an apprentice. I started an electrical engineers apprenticeship at the age of 16.
What do you love most about working in your career area? It is a good satisfaction when faced with a new problem with a machine and you can rectify the issue.
Are there any negative aspects of working in your career area that people considering it should be aware of?
You can be put under a lot of pressure when a machine fails and production needs the machine to produce product. The job entails some extremely dirty jobs, some breakdowns you can have a lot of oil etc. on the machine.
What training / qualifications did you undertake for your current role or are you currently undertaking?
I served a four year modern apprenticeship (NVQ L3), I then carried on to gain my HNC and HND in engineering which took another five years part-time. As an engineer the training never stops as each and every day you will learn new things as technology advances.
Ian Le Brun
The Jersey Royal Company
In early, normally around 6.00am to prepare for the day's events before the phone calls start. If there's no hiccups or phone calls then continue with the seasonal jobs in hand which range from helping to prepare in the planting or lifting of our main crop – Jersey Royal Potatoes. In between times plan for the next season which normally comes around far too quickly. With so many colleagues and a fair amount to do each and every day being prepared with all resources in place is of paramount importance to assist in keeping the wheels moving.
What do you think are the three most important skills to succeed in your career area?
Communication - I work with 250+ people of four main nationalities, not mentioning the huge numbers of land owners.
Organisational abilities - events alter depending the situation.
Decisiveness - which depending the previous two answers can vary dramatically from hour to hour the weather normally plays an important role.
Was this something you planned to do or did you change direction at any point in the past? If so, what was that and was it easy to do?
I initially started life out as a general farm hand / tractor driver on a market garden farm but guess I always wanted to move up the ladder. Undertaking a little more at a time under the close supervision of my managers and colleagues, I have been learning each and every day I still am learning because every day, every person in every situation varies, topped up with having to deal with the weather which as you know can change quickly no matter what the time of year!
What do you love most about working in your career area? Sense of satisfaction for completing a job well done no matter what is thrown in your way normally the weather and moaning people... Working and dealing with wonderful colleagues it s what makes the world go round.
Are there any negative aspects of working in your career area that people considering it should be aware of? Long hours are part of the course for many months of the year and occasionally having to deal with angry members of the public whom seem to have no respect of situations around them can be a little disheartening at times on the whole there are relativity few scenarios each and every year thanks heavens.
What training / qualifications did you undertake for your current role or are you currently undertaking? Other than university of life and wanting to be here no taught qualifications are required listening to my colleagues and acting on common sense normally gets me through. Above all always be honest no matter what the scenario.
Is there any other information that would be of interest to someone thinking of this career?
The want to be in this industry and willingness to listen and learn from work colleagues no matter who they are and where they come from these folk have learnt the old fashioned way by doing the job so they sure know how it feels like!
Magdalena Drabble
Jersey Dairy
My role is to establish, implement, supervise, administer and monitor business assurance programs to ensure policies and procedures are consistently followed. The prime objective of my role is to ensure that all products leaving Jersey Dairy are safe and the next objective is to ensure that they are consistently of a high quality.
My first task of a day is to communicate with the team in order to ensure there is no emerging issues that needs to be immediately resolved. My work is based around the continuous technical communication with a whole Jersey Dairy team, Jersey Dairy customers, accreditation and statutory bodies. I chair Food Safety HACCP Committee and I am involved in many other company processes i.e. new product development, health and safety.
What do you think are the three most important skills to succeed in your career area?
You need to be very organised and motivated. You need to be very keen to increase your knowledge continuously and I take every opportunity to learn. You need to enjoy studying!
Was this something you planned to do or did you change direction at any point in the past? If so, what was that and was it easy to do? Well, I had few career ideas in the past, medicine or veterinary studies, but also food science, technology and quality control
that I found quite interesting at the time. I enjoyed microbiology, chemistry and biology and I liked laboratory work, so this was something that I found would be very good for myself. However, I decided to study science in the end. Probably interest to microbiology won at the time!
What do you love most about working in your career area? Technical aspects, top industry packing and testing equipment machines. There are always new developments in this area. As an example, we installed BactoScan machine in the Jersey Dairy laboratory that counts individual count of bacteria in raw milk in nine minutes. There were only six machines in UK in National Milk Laboratories at the time. Bactoscan helped us to achieve the lowest raw milk bacteria counts comparing them to many raw milk counts in other countries in EU, including UK.
Are there any negative aspects of working in your career area that people considering it should be aware of?
Working in technical and quality role in the manufacturing industry and quickly growing business, you need to be aware that this is highly demanding position in terms of workload and technical knowledge. It will require continuous learning as industry changes quickly and there are emerging risks that you will need to look at and react as quickly as possible. You will need it be very systematic and organised. You need to work at high speed at all times and be very motivated and confident that what you are doing will pay and it is a key to business short and long term success.
What training / qualifications did you undertake for your current role or are you currently undertaking?
I have MSc in Engineering and also a degree in Quality management and Control in Food Economy. I am currently studying at University of Reading doctorate programme in Sustainable Food Quality for Health. I also undertake regular training programmes frequently.
Is there any other information that would be of interest to someone thinking of this career?
You need to like science, technology and nutrition. You also need to like working with people and have excellent communication skills. However the key to success in this role is a motivation to study. I just love studying, training courses and learning new things. Even though, quite a big part of my job is office based, you have also a more active aspects involved in food production and laboratory testing environment. This is very nice and I can ensure that is not boring at all.
Mike Renouard
The Jersey Royal Company
There is never a typical day in business like The Jersey Royal Company which produces seasonal crops and is influenced by the weather so much. The Company is involved in the growing, packing and export of potatoes to the major retailers in the UK and as part of the technical team I am involved in all aspects of these processors. As such I may be in the field one day assessing crops and advising the farm team, in the office writing up protocols or creating specifications or in the packhouse ensuring quality assurance systems are in place and that quality meets our customers specifications.
What do you think are the three most important skills to succeed in your career area?
Good communication skills you need to talk to people throughout the business from farm workers to technical and commercial at retail level.
An eye for detail accurate and timely reporting
Innovative challenge different areas for continual improvement
Was this something you planned to do or did you change direction at any point in the past? If so, what was that and was it easy to do?
I graduated from agricultural college with the intention of working with livestock, particularly dairy cows. I left college and worked on a few large farms and estates in the UK milking cows and harvesting cereal crops which I really enjoyed. I had no thoughts of taking on a more technical role at the time and this only changed when I returned to the Island and worked with on growing and packing vegetable crops for the retailers.
At the time they were introducing more stringent protocols that required a technical input which interested me in developing my career path in that area.
What training / qualifications did you undertake for your current role or are you currently undertaking?
I started with an HND in Agriculture which was a three year course with a nine months practical experience on farm. However, a degree in agriculture or food technology would have probably been more suitable if I wanted to move into a technical role straight away.
I under took a degree course form the Open University in Environmental studies after as well as some other more specific qualifications such as BASIS and FACTS which are specific qualifications for advising on the use of pesticides and fertilisers.
Is there any other information that would be of interest to someone thinking of this career? The role involves a lot of work and some long hours associated with farming. Whilst the pay is not as high as some other industries the work does bring satisfaction when you achieve good results. You have to be pretty dedicated and there are a lot of challenges that don t always result in positive outcomes, the weather being a major factor. However the good day outweigh the bad days and there is nothing better than being out in the fresh air on a warm sunny day in a good crop.
What do you love most about working in your career area?
The variety of tasks involved and the fact that you can be outside a lot. The industry is fast moving too with new ideas, techniques and new technology being introduced all the time.
Are there any negative aspects of working in your career area that people considering it should be aware of?
The hours can be quite long especially during the peak production months. This can include some weekends too.
Philip Le Maistre
Master Farms Limited
There's no such thing as a typical day on a farm as it can vary so much according to the time of the year. During the winter months more of my time is focused on the dairy herd. My day would usually start milking our Jersey cows, then cleaning the cattle sheds and putting out the winter rations for all the cattle. During the middle of the day we check our young stock and then it is milking again at 3.30pm.
From early January the planting of the Jersey Royals becomes my main job, once planting has finished at the end of March we would begin harvesting potatoes, moving into the summer months another important job is cutting grass silage which is the fed to the cattle throughout the winter months.
What do you think are the three most important skills to succeed in your career area?
Communication Time management Dedication
Was this something you planned to do or did you change direction at any point in the past? If so, what was that and was it easy to do?
I ve wanted to be a farmer ever since I was young, it actually made it really easy for me whilst I was at school as when I had to start deciding on careers there was never a question about what I wanted to do. I went to Agricultural college for three years and then came back to work on the family farm.
What do you love most about working in your career area?
I love the fact that no day is ever the same, I also love watching the countryside change throughout the different seasons of the year. It s a really satisfying feeling from when we plant the first jersey royals in the cotils to when it comes to removing the polythene and seeing that after all the hard work it won t be long until harvest begins.
required to catch up with work that should have been completed, livestock also need looking after seven days a week, 365 days of the year so you need to be aware that by working on a farm it s definitely not a Monday to Friday 9-5 job.
What training / qualifications did you undertake for your current role or are you currently undertaking?
I studied for three years at agricultural college and this included a year of work experience. During that
time I qualified as a sprayer operator, forklift driver
and telehandler driver.
I am currently doing a
Basis course, this will
provide me with a greater understanding of the pests and diseases that affect the crops we grow and how best to manage them.
Is there any other information that would be of interest to someone thinking of this career?
A recent survey said that
people who work outside are generally happier than those that have an indoor work And I would definitely agree with that! The jobs that
a farm can offer are very diverse, from mechanics,
office administration, record keeping, tractor driving,
pack house management, herdsman there is a job
for whatever you have a
passion in.
Are there any negative aspects of working in your career area that people considering it should be aware of?
The hours would probably be the main thing. Farming is a weather dependent job after continued wet weather sometimes long days are
S
William Church
The Jersey Royal Company Ltd
No day is ever the same. During the export season
I will check emails when I get up at 6am – this will include some daily orders and forecasts, the weather forecast (very important).
What do you think are the three most important skills to succeed in your career area?
Strong communicator, tenacious and flexible. The Jersey Royal is an extremely strong brand that all retailers want and use to kick-start the summer season, but potato consumption is in decline so there are constant challenges.
Was this something you planned to do or did you change direction at any point in the past? If so, what was that and was it easy to do?
I am a farmer s son, and so growing is in the blood. That said I never really planned my career
path. Following university I worked for
a training company that exposed me to
different businesses, and from there I
took every exciting opportunity that
came my way, including working
abroad. I moved to Jersey in 2002 to
work for JPMO covering tomatoes
and peppers as well as some potato
exports. When tomato exports
ended at the end of 2008 I joined
The Jersey Royal Company.
What do you love most about working in
your career area?
Fresh produce is tangible and everybody can relate to it. Every spring is exciting when you see the first plants emerge and then dig the first Royals of the season. It is a brand that generates such interest, emotion and discussion.
Are there any negative aspects of working in your career area that people considering it should be aware of? Working in produce is more a way of life than a job. Jersey Royals are seasonal, and the hours can be demanding.
What training / qualifications did you undertake for your current role or are you currently undertaking? I am both a Chartered Marketer and Chartered PR practitioner. Neither set of exams was in anyway essential, but it is interested to have interaction with others from different industries.
Is there any other information that would be of interest to someone thinking of this career?
In order to be successful in Sales and Marketing you
need to be confident when interacting with others and to believe in the product and service you supply. Be prepared for regular travel to the UK for meetings. Understanding the production process is good but not essential, so having some practical experience along the way helps.
38 
Introduction to the
Construction Industry
There are lots of jobs that we recognise in the construction industry but did you know that archaeologists, 3-D visualisers, heritage consultants, robotics engineers, ecologists and drones pilots might also be used in a construction project?
The industry is also changing as there is an increased demand for renewable energy such as solar thermal, air and ground source heating, bio-mass boilers, solar photovoltaic and wind turbines.
Mark Brandon
Sun Works (C.I.) Ltd
Sun Works install renewable energy systems to both businesses and homes around Jersey. Specifically Photovoltaic (PV) & Battery systems. Sun Works are Jersey agents for Tesla Energy and install the Powerwall battery. Sun Works also install solar panel systems and electric vehicle charging equipment in an effort to have Jersey generating more of its own energy and protecting the environment.
Some aspects include; Technical design and installation of technical design and installation of solar roof panels; plan work sequence for following day/week, organise staff and any additional labour; meet with prospect customers and undertake site surveys; attend site meetings with architects, engineers, builders; create system designs
via computer software and produce quotations; contact suppliers source best price for materials and place material orders; arrange logistics and delivery of materials to site; visit call outs, maintenance.
What do you think are the three most important skills to succeed in your career area?
Enthusiasm for the product and service (Renewable Energy/Solar) with a sense of direction and mission.
Ability to communicate appropriately with everyone from labourers to seasoned architects and multi-millionaire clients.
Full technical understanding of solar and storage technology with a desire to track appropriate new innovations.
Was this something you planned to do or did you change direction at any point in the past? If so, what was that and was it easy to do?
Change of direction having successfully qualified in the area of music technology and production. When I trained in this field in between 2004 & 2008 the industry was going under a big changes. Even in London there were very limited jobs in that area and was working various jobs to stay afloat and support my lifestyle. I returned to Jersey and re-trained as an electrician in my mid-twenties and spent a number of years working as an electrician before qualifying as a Solar PV installer. We formed Sun Works in 2013.
What do you love most about working in your
career area?
Job is diverse offering both practical onsite and office based roles. Having the opportunity to influence the development of renewable energy in Jersey. Working in an ever changing technology area and being challenged. Switching on new systems for customers, Seeing the look on a client s face when their roof producing electricity for the first time.
Are there any negative aspects of working in your career area that people considering it should be aware of? Managing pressures of other people. Most pressure in work comes from others passing on their pressure to you. Learning to prioritise and deal with this is key to running a service based business and keeping cool. Solar installers may be outside in all weathers, rain or shine Solar installation is physical work and you will get tired but the more you work and the more you like it
the stronger you get. Running a business requires you be around all the time. Even when you finish work the emails keep coming in.
40
What training / qualifications did you undertake for your current role or are you currently undertaking?
To work on the electrical side of things you re require electrical training. City & Guilds qualifications as Level 3 C&G Electrician, C&G Solar Installer and Electric Vehicle Charger Equipment installation. Specific manufacturer training in solar, battery technology & EV charging. Certification in Health and Safety Please note it is not essential to qualify as an electrician to be a successful solar installer. There are many other roles within a Solar Energy business both practical and office based.
Is there any other information that would be of interest to someone thinking of this career?
Solar installer work is not dependant on being an electrician. There are roles and many successful people in the industry who do not go through the electrical side. The most important this as a solar installer is ability to work through problems that occur, be good on
the tools and working at heights. This
may come from basic construction
qualifications where you learn how
to use tools, be aware of health and
safety onsite. Enthusiasm for the
job and overcoming challenges
or difficult tasks will help
drive you forward.
Challenge yourself
because the things
you avoided
yesterday
become part of
your normal
working day
the next.
Matt Michel
States of Jersey – Department for Growth, Housing & Environment
To start the day, I usually walk around the site to check that the electrics are on for the various machines we'll be working with. The main bulk of my day is spent collecting different electrical appliances like TVs, monitors, computers and oil heaters. We strip the TVs and monitors of their metals and prepare them for shipping by stacking them onto pallet boards and wrapping them to ensure they are safe to handle and ship to England where they will be recycled.
What do you think are the three most Is there any other information that would be of important skills to succeed in your career area? interest to someone thinking of this career? Communication to get our jobs done safely The team are great! We all get along and efficiently. and work hard to help one another
get the job done. Even when there s Time management for prioritising jobs and loads to do, everyone is still smiling.
work with time constraints. I like knowing that the work we
Team work working well with others in a do supports reuse and recycling
pressured environment. so I get a lot of satisfaction from
being able to make a difference Was this something you planned to do or did in that area with my work.
you change direction at any point in the past?
If so, what was that and was it easy to do?
I recently completed my degree in PE and
Outdoor Education and I have always seen
myself working outdoors. This is my first step
into employment and so far so good; I get to
work outdoors and I learn a lot each day.
What do you love most about working in your career area?
Being outside on a day to day basis and getting to work with machines and different equipment to help recycling of different materials. I never even thought about recycling before I started working here.
Are there any negative aspects of working in your career area that people considering it should be aware of?
Be prepared to be outside whatever the weather. The site at La Collette is exposed to all weathers and while we get the best of it, we get the worst of it too!
What training / qualifications did you undertake for your current role or are you currently undertaking?
I completed on site training so that I can use the machines correctly and safely. I completed asbestos awareness training to spot asbestos- containing materials within the waste items we receive. I also did manual handling training because the job is very physical and I do
a lot of lifting. We read all the operational procedures and risk assessments before completing manual or operational tasks, so there s lots of on-going learning.
The Annual Guide to Careers in Jersey 41
Michael-Jay Ruane
Andium Homes
I manage a team of five construction professionals which are split into three specialisms Planned Maintenance, Asset Management and Commercial Developments/Lettings. Through the team we manage the upkeep and enhancement of 4500 properties and across over 200 estates.
This involves the management of numerous Are there any negative aspects of working in long term multi-million pound cyclical contracts your career area that people considering it
to ensure our estates are kept clean and should be aware of?
tidy and maintained to a decent standard. Although the construction industry is varied, Managing these contracts involve tight budget there is a need to remain resilient and prepared control, forecasting, procurement and contract for difficult conversations with clients, administration. All the various contracts need to contractors and colleagues when works do
be closely monitored in terms of performance not quite go to plan or something unforeseen through key performance indicators. happens. How you deal with these
situations is incredibly important to
What do you think are the three most maintain working relationships for the important skills to succeed in your career area? future.
Speaking to contractors and clients require
good communication and negotiation skills, What training / qualifications did you verbal and written. This includes a good grasp undertake for your current role or are and ability to manage people expectations. you currently undertaking?
BSc (hons) Degree in Building
Surveying at Nottingham Trent The ability to problem solve quickly and University where I obtained
efficiently is important to ensure smooth a good base knowledge of running of contracts. construction, law and the
environment.
Strong in maths to control budgets and forecast
for the future. MRICS Chartered Building
Surveyor s Assessment of
Was this something you planned to do or did Professional Competence
you change direction at any point in the past? through the Royal Institution
If so, what was that and was it easy to do? of Chartered Surveyors
Originally, I started gaining experience and which is a world recognised
training to be an architect, however after qualification for professionals in working in a couple of practices I decided land, real estate, construction and
I preferred building pathology and project infrastructure.
management which influenced my university
choice to study Building Surveying at Is there any other information Nottingham Trent University. that would be of interest to
someone thinking of this career? Studying building surveying gave me a broad It s never too late to change
base knowledge of construction, law and the career, the construction industry built environment. Further work experience in offers a wide range of opportunity s London and Jersey gave me a further depth in and out of the office environment of knowledge to work toward my Chartered with numerous avenues for on-Island Surveyor MRICS accreditation. training through Highlands College.
Further to this there is lots of further My recent career progression into management avenues in the housing sector at has been the biggest change where I have Andium Homes, not just construction, enjoyed the opportunity and challenge. such as supporting independent living,
finance, allocations, sales and client What do you love most about working in your engagement.
career area?
The variety of the work and ability to work in
and out of the office. I also get to meet a wide
range of clients living within our properties but
also contractors who have different trade skills,
backgrounds and specialisms. The construction
industry offers a great sense of achievement and
leaves a legacy of what the team involved have
accomplished.
Phil Dodd
States of Jersey - Growth, Housing and Environment & Jersey Fire and Rescue
No two days are the same - we look after so much of the Islands' infrastructure that generally the public don't get to see. This can be any of the 100+ pumping stations around the Island feeding sewage to our treatment works at Bellozanne, to the abattoir or the La Collette Energy from Waste Plant.
My day to day work involves managing my employees, manage budgets, strategically look at
how we operate, drive continuous improvements and find ways to be more efficient in everything we do .. and then by night I m an On-Call Firefighter for Jersey Fire and Rescue, which has its own challenges!
What do you think are the three most important skills to succeed in your career area?
Empathy to manage and look after your team
Courage to work confidently under pressure
Determination to push yourself as far as you want to go
Was this something you planned to do or did you change direction at any point in the past? If so, what was that and was it easy to do?
When I was younger I always
wanted to be an architect, but a lot of my friends were older and got
so much out of their engineering apprenticeships that I was inspired, so I applied for a job with a large shipbuilder company in the UK, I was successful and as they say, the rest is history! After living in Jersey for a few years I applied to work for this department, knowing I could put my skills to great use here and now, seven years on, I have progressed through the organisation to the management role I am doing now.
As for the Fire Service, that was something that I thought would be interesting and fun, not to mention that it s rewarding to be able to help people.
What do you love most about working in your career area?
The importance of what my team do in providing a public service feels good, and I love the variety
of work. We are so lucky to have the opportunities we do eg. we are supporting an initiative called Primary Engineer that will embed engineering
into primary and secondary school If you are looking for a career in a curriculums locally. I m really certain role then I urge you to contact passionate about inspiring young the employer, show them you are students to consider this sort of interested in working for them if career path and I get such satisfaction they can see you are committed, from watching them see their ideas dedicated and passionate you never come to life. know what opportunities will come
your way.
Are there any negative aspects of working in your career area that people considering it should be aware of?
When you work for the government, every aspect of your work is under the public microscope and in this department in particular if our work is going unnoticed by the public, it means we re doing a good job! We look after the roads you drive, the clean beaches or parks you enjoy in the summer and most importantly, we take care of everything that happens after you flush the toilet!
What training / qualifications
did you undertake for your current role or are you currently undertaking?
I have a formal qualification in Operational Process Engineering, I have completed my Level 7 CMI Certificate in Strategic Management and Leadership, Asset Management and I m currently working towards becoming a Chartered Manager.
With Jersey Fire & Rescue I completed the basic training years ago, followed by my EFAD (driving) qualification allowing me to respond on blue lights to incidents. Finally, I attended the Fire Service College in the UK to complete incident command training that allows me to take control of an incident as a Crew Commander.
Is there any other information that would be of interest to someone thinking of this career?
Currently we are trying to promote ourselves better to reach people who are potentially looking to join the department. Very little is known about who we are and what we do lots of people are very surprised when they find out!
Tom Le Gallais
States of Jersey - Growth, Housing and Environment Department
The concept of capital schemes' means a typical day can include a variety of different construction or engineering projects – each scheme comes with its own unique challenges and opportunities to learn. A typical day might involve: the review of designs or proposals from our designers or consultants, evaluating a project tender submission from a contractor, or presenting a project, programme and commercial update to a project board or asset owner. Projects can also vary in terms of scope and stage of development.. Examples of current projects include: the demolition of a redundant sludge processing facility; the excavation of 150,000 tonnes of rock and stabilisation of the new slope; and, the design and construction of a new £75 million sewage treatment works.
What do you think are the three most important skills to succeed in your career area?
Technical and analytical - to apply engineering theory or evidence engineering problems
Lateral thinking and confidence - to explore alternative solutions
Communication - to discuss new concepts or ideas with technical and non-technical colleagues
Was this something you planned to do or did you change direction at any point in the past? If so, what was that and was it easy to do?
I decided to pursue a career in civil engineering whilst in sixth-form and following a three year degree in Civil Engineering, I joined the department as a graduate engineer. Over the last five years I have helped deliver projects including St Aubin s Village Improvement scheme to flood alleviation tunnels (20m deep) below St Helier as well as a secondment with a UK consultant for nine months before joining the Capital Project Delivery team.
The construction industry is unlike many others in that job opportunities are available at a range of different levels and educational requirements. Many senior engineers from the department as well as industry experts joined the industry with minimal qualifications and, through hard work and dedication, have achieved senior roles
and responsibilities.
What do you love most about working in your career area?
Working with new teams on different and complex projects to overcome engineering challenges and problems. There is also a real variety to my work as
it involves a range of aspects of engineering, such as civil, process, mechanical, electrical and geotechnical.. The work often has a political dimension and might
be a current news topic that may add another layer of complexity or new challenges. Moreover, it is satisfying to physically see new infrastructure in operation and essential for the efficient running of our Island.
Are there any negative aspects of working in your career area that people considering it should be aware of?
Obviously, as with any construction-related scheme, there are busy days and late finishes to complete major phases of the project and where the room for error is minimal. From personal experience, getting to grips with engineering and construction on a small island with minimal available resources combined with the complexities of local government and politics can be challenging at first but it is learning curve!
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What training / qualifications did you undertake for your current role or are you currently undertaking?
My first qualification was a Bachelor s degree in Civil Engineering before joining the department. I am currently, with support from the department, studying a Master s degree in Water and Waste Engineering with Loughborough University and by distance learning. Once complete the additional degree will allow me to apply for Chartered Membership of the Institution of Civil Engineers. The option of distance learning provides new opportunities for those living in Jersey.
Is there any other information that would be of interest to someone thinking of this career? Enrolling on an engineering course that is accredited by a professional membership body, such as the Institution of Civil, Mechanical or Electrical Engineers, is definitely an advantage because the training received during your time at university will allow you to apply for professional qualifications that are recognised on a global scale. I would also recommend any opportunity to gain experience in industry. Undergraduate placements are offered by the Department which are an excellent way to gain an insight into the work we do.
CONSTRUCTION C
Charlie Sanchez
States of Jersey Department for Growth, Housing and Environment
Due to the nature of the work, no two days are ever the same and so it's a bit difficult to describe a typical day. You're constantly switching between being in the office working on whatever projects the department has going on or being out on-site seeing these projects in all their complexity in the real world. At the moment, I shadow and assist with anything that the Senior Engineers are working on.
What do you think are the three most important skills/ attributes to succeed in your career area?
The ability to think outside the box Good teamwork and interpersonal skills Perseverance
Was this something you planned to do or did you change direction at any point in the past? After finishing school, two friends and I were fortunate enough to be able to do our ski instructing qualifications and ended up working out in Niseko, Japan for a year, which was absolutely incredible. My plan was to return the following year and continue to do ski seasons for the foreseeable future. Unfortunately, things didn t quite go to plan so I decided to give university a try. It was a bit of a stab in the dark as I really didn t have a burning desire to study anything in
particular, but
Mechanical Engineering seemed interesting, so I chose that. Soon after starting, I realised that I d picked the perfect degree and four years later, I graduated with a Masters in it. That said, it certainly wasn t an easy ride. There were lots of all-nighters and sleep-deprived library sessions but it was the best four years of my life and was definitely all worth it.
What do you love most about working in your career area?
Definitely the varied nature of the work. I m always learning something new so it s always interesting, and there s never nothing to do! I also really enjoy working in a team, which is something that is ubiquitous within the field of engineering. It is very rare that you ll ever be on your own, scratching your head at what to do you can bounce ideas off each other which is reassuring and builds your confidence.
Are there any negative aspects of working in your career area that people considering it should be aware of? I am very early on in my career so I can t speak from much experience, but personally I am yet to encounter anything really negative about it. There are of course things that I enjoy more than others, but that s just the nature of the work. If you re considering a career in engineering, expect the unexpected and just be ready to deal with whatever is thrown at you!
What training / qualifications did you undertake for your current role or are you currently undertaking?
The route I took was a Bachelors and Master s degree in Mechanical Engineering. The eventual goal for most engineers is to become fully chartered and these two qualifications are the pre-requisites. I did these prior to securing a job, but this isn t the only way to do it. Some companies offer employment and training and will then assist you with obtaining the necessary university
qualifications.
Is there any other information that would be of interest
to someone thinking of this career?
To someone considering a career in engineering, whether that be at the Department for Growth, Housing and Environment or any other organisation, I suppose that the only thing I would say is that
you re unlikely to get much job satisfaction if you re lazy. The enjoyment comes from seeing something
through from start to end, whatever that may entail and being able to stand back afterwards and proudly say Yeah, I was part of the team that designed and made that.
Introduction to the
Digital Industries
The digital tech economy is rapidly growing, with jobs around today that didn't even exist 15 years ago.
Jobs such as user experience design; sustainability expert; cloud computing services; social media manager & app developer are becoming the norm with experts telling us that people will be working in digital jobs in the future that we haven't even heard about yet!
DIGITAL D
Aniksha Panchmatia
Continuum
On an average day, I spend a lot of my time ensuring that the projects are running smoothly and working closely with Dan and the team on managing daily tasks. I also work at different clients' offices with my data project stakeholders, managers and business users. I use Alteryx every day creating solutions to sometimes tricky business data issues. Working closely alongside my clients I understand their issues and ensure I deliver the best possible service. If I need quiet time for training or research I have a desk at the friendly Digital Jersey Hub.
What do you think are the three most Are there any negative aspects of important skills to succeed in your working in your career area that career area? people considering it should be
I truly believe one can achieve what aware of?
they want if they are dedicated, I can honestly say there are no passionate in everything that they do negatives working in this area, it is an and being able to solve problems by extremely fun industry, it is growing, thinking outside the box. Really it is and it is very exciting to be part of about just having some fun. the journey. There seems to be a
view that this industry is more for Was this something you planned to men, but having being part of it, I can do or did you change direction at any see women enjoying a career in this point in the past? If so, what was that industry, it is the future.
and was it easy to do?
No it s not, my degree was actually in What training / qualifications did you Marketing and Media. However when undertake for your current role or are I graduated I fell into a job with the you currently undertaking?
NHS in London where I worked as a With Alteryx, there s multiple ways Project Manager in IT for ten years. in which one can produce the same
It s not what I studied or thought I result. I m consistently discovering would go into, but I have learnt a lot new tips, tricks and shortcuts which and enjoyed it. I then moved to Jersey really keeps me engaged with my and worked in finance for a year and work. The training exercises are have now joined Continuum as a great for giving a fundamental Consultant. It is not difficult to move understanding of Alteryx, but using if you are willing to learn and adapt. it in a working environment improves I think it gives you an opportunity to my expertise every day. I have also expand your experience and skills, got my certificate for PRINCE 2, which no one should be afraid of change, has helped me with understanding the you should see it as a challenge and structure in project management. embrace it.
Is there any other information that What do you love most about would be of interest to someone working in your career area? thinking of this career?
I have always worked with technology, The world of technology is growing and what I have loved the most is rapidly, being part of it is very seeing the impact modern technology exhilarating. There is so much to learn / systems has in making life simple for every day, just don t be afraid to learn. others. There are many other areas You have to be dedicated, want to that I also enjoy about working in my achieve and always try your best. The area, one of the most important ones most important part of being in any is being able to solve problems with job is to have fun and to enjoy what the use of Alteryx. I also love the fact you are doing.
that you get to meet different people
from various industry areas.
Chris Franco
iPOP Digital
My day starts at around 7.00am with a nice strong coffee, I check my calendar and answer some emails. A quick five minute cycle and I'm in the office. Once everyone is in there's usually some chatter about what we all got up to the night before. Jonny, Jon and I usually make sure everyone is clear on what's priority for the day then I get going with prioritising my own days' work. Every day is different and always involves some element of the unknown. We work with so many different businesses and sometimes a project is brought to you that is completely unexpected and totally welcome. Never a dull moment!
What do you think are the three most important skills to succeed in your career area?
Soft skills - be passionate about what you do by being knowledgeable and having a positive, can do attitude no matter what this will definitely help. At the end of the day, there may only be a handful of school or university leavers who think that SEO (Search Engine Optimisation) or digital marketing will be the direction their career takes.
Was this something you planned to do or did you change direction at any point in the past? If so, what was that and was it easy to do?
I wanted to work in marketing but
I never thought it would be digital marketing. I started doing a CIM diploma (Chartered Institute of Marketing) but found it hard to relate what I was learning to the way my marketing role at the time was moving, which was digital (CIM now offer a digital course).
That s when I decided to look online for courses to take that could help me learn more about digital marketing. As this was ten years ago I was surprised there was a huge amount of online learning to be done. I started with Google s own Analytics IQ (individual qualification) then on to their adwords material which was invaluable at the time. It gives you a basic understanding of how these products can work for your clients. It is then up to you to take an organised approach to putting what you learn into practice and finding more in depth learning online.
What do you love most about working in your career area?
The variety is brilliant and being able to demonstrate to a business that what you have done has directly affected they re bottom line in a positive way is very rewarding. In some cases (internet first businesses) they can fully rely on what we do to bring in their business. It s a challenge and sometimes stressful but if it wasn t I wouldn t be so happy to do it.
Are there any negative aspects of working in your career area that people considering it should be aware of?
Sometimes your ideas are stifled by budgets, although that s not as big of a problem as it might sound. It s all about managing people s expectation. I tend to lend my imagination run wild to come up with ideas then work backwards until the idea suits the business and budget.
What training / qualifications did you undertake for your current role or are you currently undertaking?
To my knowledge there isn t
any official qualification for SEO but CIM now offer digital marketing courses that are definitely worth looking at. I was in a fortunate position when I started in digital marketing,
the business I worked for were open to me making the case for digital marketing. Using
the tools I had at my
disposal I did that
and was able
to show that
many of their
customers
were
online and not only that, I could also show where they were and what channels were organically performing well for them.
Is there any other information that would be of interest to someone thinking of this career?
Get in touch, I d be happy to talk to you about a role in digital marketing.
Chris Morris
Interval Digital Marketing Agency
I arrive in the Digital Hub, where I'm based at around 9.00am after dropping the kids off at school. I tend to prioritise my most important tasks for the morning so I can ensure they get completed before any distractions from the day kick in. My work is completely varied and consists of digital strategy for clients, business development and launching or managing digital marketing campaigns. I've recently launched an online digital academy with training on various aspects of digital marketing. This consists of planning and creating training courses on a frequent basis. I try to work in bursts when I'm the most productive – this can see me sometimes doing a typical 9.00am to 5.00pm day or often have me working in the Hub late at night from 8.00pm till the early hours!
What do you think are the three most important skills to succeed in your career area?
Ability to listen it s critical to hear what the client s current challenges and goals are. Without this it s impossible to develop a campaign that will deliver meaningful results.
Resilience a big part of my job is business development, discovering new opportunities. It s important to stay motivated when someone says no , and realise there s a better opportunity or fit waiting around the next corner.
Learning the industry is moving so quickly there s always a need
to keep learning new skills and techniques that will help your clients be successful.
Was this something you planned to do or did you change direction at any point in the past? If so, what was that and was it easy to do?
I left school at 17 back in 1999 we were just about to see the dotcom boom and I wanted desperately to put my self-taught web design skills to test in the industry. I actually ended up working as a typesetter in a publishing company for 12 months. I didn t realise it at the time but it gave me a great insight in to running a business and more importantly how to sell to someone. I was surrounded by a telesales team who I observed daily and quickly started to pick up on who was the best at sales. I left that business to set-up my own web agency and haven t looked back since!
What do you love most about working in your career area?
My favourite thing about working in the digital marketing industry is when you work for a client s business you have to think like that business one day I m an architect, the next a trust company and then a fashion retailer - I love this diversity. That said every client has similar challenges and goals in the main their focus is on either generating more leads or closing sales. It s great to be able to play a part in their success and see them grow from strength to strength as a result of your marketing campaigns. The way we market to and communicate with prospective clients and customers is changing there s an exciting opportunity to create really relevant, personalised campaigns, aimed directly at an individual we call this inbound marketing and it s a real growth area for the industry.
Are there any negative aspects of working in your career area that people considering it should be aware of?
A negative people associate with the industry would be the speed at which things change and evolve and how important it is to keep up with this. My advice here would be to ensure that you dedicate time to self-improvement and learning new skills and trends. If you re working within an agency it s important that they recognise this too and give you the time and support to invest in your own professional development.
What training / qualifications did you undertake for your current role or are you currently undertaking?
I don t have any formal qualifications as I left school before my A-Levels
to start within the industry. I did take some management NVQs however during my time at my first job. Since then I ve continued to invest in myself attending various privately run courses and mastermind sessions where experts teach practical skills
to succeed within the industry. These tend to be within verticals such as Facebook Advertising, Writing Sales Emails, LinkedIn marketing etc. A key area I ve consistently studied for over eight years is Inbound marketing
the techniques to attract customers, engage them, convert and retain them. The best form of training is to actually put the learning in to practice with a real hands-on project/campaign.
Is there any other information that would be of interest to someone thinking of this career?
There are so many opportunities within the industry to join an agency or set-up your own business you can initially go quite broad and get involved in areas such as online advertising, web design, email marketing etc. Then once you have a feel for different disciplines you can start to specialise in a niche area of the industry and become an expert. Most agencies will consider intern placements which are a great place to start when considering what part of the industry you d like to get involved in. What are you waiting for? Get started today you won t look back!
Jonathan Channing
Founder of Cobra Coding
Co-Founder of GGGovernance Co-Founder of U25Mentoring
Head of Strategy for National Coding Week
A typical day at work for me can be anything from meeting clients and agreeing the scope of their work project, to attending networking events and working on my various businesses. I will often work on projects during the day, attend events during the afternoon and develop my other ventures in the evening and weekends. I tend to keep my days varied when possible and mentally schedule in my workload for the coming week on a Sunday afternoon with a cup of loose leaf tea. By
mentally preparing for the challenges and workload of the week ahead I am able to meet deadlines and keep clients happy.
What do you think are the three most important skills to succeed in your career area? The three most important skills in my chosen career path have to be without any doubt Resilience, adaptability and ultimately passion; without these skills it s difficult to be an entrepreneur.
Was this something you planned to do or did you change direction at any point in the past? If so, what was that and was it easy to do? This career was something that found me and was accessible to me given my lack of formal educational qualifications. Working for myself allowed me to develop multiple skills which
I would have possibly never be able to grasp had I decided to just work as an employee. My direction drastically changed after attending a one week coding course where I learnt the basics of coding HTML and CSS, I was able to develop my coding knowledge as well as business acumen. I was fortunate enough to find a mentor who helped me to develop my business skills.
What do you love most about working in your career area?
The thing I love most about working for myself is having the ability to take time out from working when I need to relax and being able to have complete flexibility to work whenever I feel it suits me best. For example I like to be able to take the mornings off some days and work into the evenings some other days or get up early and finish at midday when the sun shines. I love the freedom of deciding when and how I work.
Are there any negative aspects of working in your career area that people considering it should be aware of?
Yes of course being self-employed is great but it also comes with additional challenges. If you work for someone else your wages are guaranteed and you only have to focus on your role within the company. If you choose to be self-employed you have to consider many things from your sales, marketing and project management of your work to ensuring it s completed and invoiced within agreed deadlines.
50
What training /
qualifications did you undertake for your
current role or are you currently undertaking? Qualifications are
incredibly useful if
you want a job, less
so if you want to be
your own boss. Once
you set out as self-
employed you are judged
on the merit of your skill
and talent not by a piece of paper! You will however keep
up with the changing market and adapt by learning new skills and pushing yourself to pursue new opportunities. The training I undertook was largely self- taught, I attended a one week coding boot camp which gave me the skills and confidence to learn further using online tutorials and communities.
Is there any other information that would be of interest to someone thinking of this career?
If you want to work for yourself and set your own work schedule then you will need to be a self-learner open to being flexible and beyond all else driven. This will enable you to hit the ground running. You may also consider finding a mentor someone to guide you on your journey and give you the wealth of their experience on decisions you may feel unsure about or apprehensive about making.
Jonny Seller
iPOP Digital
My main role in the business is web development coding in HTML, CSS, PHP and Javascript. I would class myself as a front-end developer. Being a Director of iPOP also comes with other responsibilities such as client meetings, job proposals, and business development. These are areas I particularly enjoy as I am constantly meeting interesting people that aspire to grow their business.
What do you think are the three most important skills to succeed in your career area?
Great at resolving problems and have great ideas.
Able to keep up to date with the industry. Happy to constantly learn and improve.
Was this something you planned to do or did you change direction at any point in the past? If so, what was that and was it easy to do? Before going to university I worked in retail for five years selling clothes, although I learnt some very useful skills it wasn t part of my future plans. I was fortunate enough to get a position as a Web Developer at a local agency in Jersey after graduating from university. I have
been interested in media since my
GCSE s but it wasn t until I left university that I knew I wanted to become a Web Developer.
What do you love most about working in your career area?
I love the the variety and diversity of the job, no two projects are the same. Its a great feeling when you launch a new site and very satisfying to hear positive client feedback.
Are there any negative aspects of working in your career area that people considering it should be aware of? I guess the negative aspects would be different for everyone. Technology is consistently changing so you need be flexible and interested in learning every day. One of my dislikes would be when you spend hour s problem solving only to find out there was a simple solution starring you in the face along.
What training / qualifications did you undertake for your current role or are you currently undertaking?
I studied Interactive Media Production at Bournemouth University, however, most of my skills are self taught while working as developer. There are so many tools online such as Treehouse, CodeAcademy
or even YouTube where you can learn all the necessary skills to become a Web Developer. I learnt more in the first three weeks of work than I did in the three years at university.
Is there any other information that would be of interest to someone thinking of this career? Web agencies are often drawn to people who have developed their own skills through personal interest and research. This is what we look for in potential new recruits at iPOP. Start by building websites from scratch using HTML and CSS and testing yourself with new coding languages and you will soon see if you are interested in being a Web Developer.
/ ANIMATOR
Will Jack Robinson
Submarine Creative
One of the best bits about my job is that
every day is different. I work on a variety
of projects and can be filming or editing one day and animating the next. I look forward to going to work as I enjoy working with different people on a variety of projects.
What do you think are the three most important skills to succeed in your career area?
Being a people person
Having the grit to be better and grow
of late nights and weekends. Going into the Hard working creative industry as a freelance takes a lot of hard
work and perseverance. It also means thinking a bit more Was this something you planned to do or did you in a business sense, which can be a shock to the system
change direction at any point in the past? If so, for a creative.
what was that and was it easy to do?
I ve always been fascinated with film and the editing What training / qualifications did you undertake for your process. For years I was involved in film production from current role or are you currently undertaking? a motion graphics stand point. As time went on I became I studied Animation at university and throughout the more and more intrigued about giving film a go and course I started doing freelance motion graphics jobs. By bought a camera. The first project I worked on I directed the end of my degree I knew that was the area I wanted and edited a documentary called Our Plastic Free Island . to focus on, then as I delved deeper into that world This documentary confirmed my passion for working filmmaking caught my curiosity. Now I mainly learn new in film, and I now incorporate motion graphics and film skills from working with others and asking them to teach together. me what they know so I can then I can create a mix of
techniques that work for me.
What do you love most about working in your career
area? Is there any other information that would be of interest Collaborating with like minded people who really to someone thinking of this career?
appreciate the creative process to put together something If you want to do it, then do it. If you put in the hard work special is as good as it gets for me! I collaborate with all then anything is possible. Social media is a powerful sorts of companies and people which is real pleasure for tool to connect and grow and if you approach it with the me and one of the best bits about my job. I also love the right mindset then the possibilities are endless. I ve found fact that I rarely know what is round the corner. myself connecting with people I have idolized for years
and collaborated with them on some really cool projects. Are there any negative aspects of working in your career Approach the creative industry with a view to collaborate
area that people considering it should be aware of? and get to know other people in the industry rather than Being freelance is hard work and I stress that to people compete and have fun with it!
thinking about going freelance, it means working a lot
Jon Moore
iPOP Digital
I don't really have a typical day, one day is completely different to the next. That's the best thing about our industry – there is no repetition or boring days. Late Friday afternoon is computer games and beer (so long as we don't have a deadline).
What do you think are the three most important skills to succeed in your career area?
Adaptability, capability and experience.
Was this something you planned to do or did you change direction at any point in the past? If so, what was that and was it easy to do?
I was working for a parcel company in Middlesbrough when I was 18 and hated every minute of it. One day I just got up and walked out a few months later I was at college and working towards a new career, I was skint for years but much happier.
What do you love most about working in your career area?
The variety of projects; some are smaller local projects with people who are very passionate about their product and some are huge, international jobs where collectively you are looking to make a change and impact people s lives in a positive way. You also meet a lot of interesting people along the way.
Are there any negative aspects of working in your career area that people considering it should be aware of?
Long hours, sometimes we work through the night and have to give up our weekends to meet deadlines - it s all worth it though.
What training / qualifications did you undertake for your current role or are you currently undertaking?
I went to Leeds University and studied Visual Communication. University was decent but I couldn t wait to leave, you learn more in the first year at work than you would in three years of higher education.
Is there any other information that would be of interest to someone thinking of this career? Jersey currently has a small talent pool, we are desperate for younger people to get involved in the local digital market. If you re not one for finance or pecking at a keyboard all day then there is an alternative in the creative industry it s an amazing industry to be in.
Introduction to the
Hospitality Industry
The hospitality industry relies on the relationships
it builds with its customers and its ability to keep pace with the changes in customer expectations to compete in a global market. This means that thinking up new ways of doing things is really important. Technology is also influencing the industry - in how it works and the job opportunities it offers.
There are lots of different types of opportunities in the hospitality industry. Add to that the links it has with other sectors e.g. travel and tourism and leisure and you have a very diverse and rapidly changing industry.
Daniel Straiton
The Edwin Group
A typical day starts at 10.00am in the morning. Checking for any post and any emails we have received, looking at the rota to see what cleaning duties need to be done that day, making sure the bar is ready for when customers arrive, getting the till from the office, filling up the ice bucket, cutting fresh fruits, checking and cleaning the toilets, checking and cleaning the bar and putting the TV's and the radio on. Finally opening the doors ready for whatever the day may bring, it's different every day. Some days finish I can finish at 6.00pm others could be 1.00am.
What do you think are the three most important skills to have taken health & safety succeed in your career area? courses, first aid course and The ability to work in a team and be a team player. customer service course.
The opportunities are
To have good communication skills with both your there to take
customers and your fellow staff members. many different
To have a good knowledge of the products you sell. courses, it s
The list goes on - be attentive to customer s needs, always good to
maintain high levels of cleanliness, good memory, good take them and
personality, work efficiently and responsibly. further your
knowledge
Was this something you planned to do or did you change of yourself
direction at any point in the past? If so, what was that and fellow
and was it easy to do? team
This was not a career I choose when leaving school. I first members.
trained as an engineer for five years and then went on
to work in the finance sector. It was not until 2000 when Is there
I went traveling and worked bars in backpackers that I any other
found my passion for a job I really enjoyed. I came back information
to Jersey in 2003 and worked at the Moulin De Lecq and that would be
since then have worked my way up from Bartender to of interest to someone Manager. I m still learning new things every day. thinking of this career?
If you are thinking of
What do you love most about working in your doing this for a career career area? I would suggest doing
I love the daily challenge of working behind the bar, each some part-time bar
day is different. I enjoy the camaraderie between staff and work / restaurant work customers. Even though now I spend more time in the or both if you can. This office the challenges are the same. It s all about making will give you an idea
sure your customers are happy. of the effort needed
to be successful in
Are there any negative aspects of working in your career this business. You
area that people considering it should be aware of? must have a passion
As a person I don t like to look upon or think of anything for this job, the same
in a negative way. Though if this is a career you wish to could be said for any
pursue just be aware of the hours you may have to work. work but even more
Split shifts if working in a restaurant environment. The so for hospitality. The
salary may not be as good as the finance sector, but as ability to communicate someone who has worked in both for a considerably time, and understand people
I would say I am a much happier and healthier working in if working front of house the hospitality trade. Try some part-time shifts to see how is also essential. Don t let much you enjoy it. friends or family deter you if
you know this is something What training / qualifications did you undertake for your you would be good at. Enjoy, current role or are you currently undertaking? then the opportunities are When first accepting the job we had some in-house there for you.
training on procedures, also had some cellar training
with the breweries. I also took my BII personal licence
exam which covers a range of skills needed for the job. I
Deborah Vautier
Channel Hotels & Leisure LTD
That's and interesting question! I love every day, mostly because they are so varied and fly by. On a given day, you will find me speaking to as many of my staff as I can, finding out – proactively – what going on in their day/week and making sure they are supported to carry out the tasks in front of them and smoothing out any problems we may be faced with. I have the responsibility of ensuring standards are constantly met across the businesses and have to work hard at driving our businesses forward, working on future improvements and changes. Not forgetting the day to day admin!
What do you think are the three most important skills to succeed in your career area?
The ability to be able to speak with anyone and be understanding of everybody s view point.
To have a flexible attitude to deal with unplanned situations and to be able to solve problems.
To keep a cool head under pressure.
Was this something you planned to do or did you change direction at any point in the past? If so, what was that and was it easy to do? I had no idea what I wanted to do as a career and just followed opportunities that have naturally presented themselves to me in my working life. I started as a waitress carrying plates and worked my way up through the different jobs in the hotel. I dipped out and tried different jobs, but I have always been drawn back to the exciting environment of the hospitality sector.
What do you love most about working in your career area?
There are so many elements in a hotel that translate into everyday life. They re life skills. It s made me the person I am. I think that s what I love about working in hospitality, every day s different, and every visitor is different. It really keeps you on your toes. You re dealing with real people and real situations - anything can happen, and if often does!
Are there any negative aspects of working in your career area that people considering it should be aware of?
My job is varied and unexpected so I can t say I enjoy it all the time, but even though it presents great challenges I can and must manage my decisions which continue to keep my interest and helps me achieve more. My job carries great responsibility and pressure and working in hospitality does involve unsociable hours and I have had to structure my life around this, but this is how I have grown up and it makes me the person who I am today.
What training / qualifications did you undertake for your current role or are you currently undertaking?
Every day is training! it s not
a role where you process
the same tasks daily.
So experience in
the different roles
I have done over
the years has been
the biggest key and
having started from
the bottom carrying
plates and now being
an co-owner of our
newest businesses. I look
back and think I wouldn t
be in the position I am if
I hadn t worked my way
up as I have had no major
professional hospitality
training.
Is there any other information that would be of interest to someone thinking of this career? Working in hospitality
can be so fulfilling and
fun and has loads of benefits generally you
get to work and live in
an Island hotspot and
take your breaks on
the beach! Food in
work, free parking,
the opportunity to for live-in accommodation which can save you a fortune! You get to meet different people from
all over and the trade
gives you the skills to travel and earn money all over the world. Like lots of businesses there are great opportunities to progress your career from within...
The Annual Guide to Careers in Jersey 57
Matthew Gordon
Dandy
My working day starts at 6.00am. No two days are the same as we are always experimenting with new ideas as well as producing our very popular house made staples. Our customers love our freshly baked sourdough, banana bread, brownies, and pastries to name but a few! Ok - I could go on and on! We finish around 3.00pm by cleaning down in preparation for the bread making again the next morning.
What do you think are the three most just produced for them. Hard work important skills to succeed in your and determination to succeed are career area? very important if you want to A willingness to learn, self-motivation be the best you can be.
& determination and a genuine What training /
passion for the industry qualifications did you
undertake for your current
Was this something you planned to role or are you currently
do or did you change direction at any undertaking?
point in the past? If so, what was that I attended Highlands College
and was it easy to do? on a full-time basis for two
From an early age I have had an years to gain my City in Guilds interest in food. Both my parents qualifications. During this time trained at catering college so I grew I also worked part-time in many up learning and appreciating good local restaurants gaining valuable food as well as seeing the excitement experience. Once I had
and fun that comes with being qualified I moved to the
involved in this industry. Once I had UK where I worked on
finished my time at college I spent a full-time basis in two
some time working in England with of the UK s top 100
Michelin Chefs developing my own restaurants. This helped
skill set before returning to Jersey. me to develop my skill
set whilst working with
What do you love most about some incredibly talented
working in your career area? people.
I have a real passion for our industry
and in catering you never stop Is there any other information learning. Chefs are constantly finding that would be of interest to
new and creative ways to make food someone thinking of this career? exciting. At the moment I am really I personally feel that moving off enjoying producing my own bread island for a period of time helped me and cakes, but I equally enjoy the to understand our industry better. fast pace of producing a high quality I gained valuable experience from a la carte meal in a busy restaurant working alongside some very talented environment. You also get to meet people. On my return I was able to and work with people from many bring this experience back to the different parts of the world and this Island and use it to not just develop can influence how you see food and myself further but to pass this
help from a creative point of view. knowledge on to others.
Are there any negative aspects of working in your career area that people considering it should be aware of?
When you start out working in kitchens you quickly learn that it is not a 9.00am to 5.00pm job. The hours are long and unsociable and so you have to be very committed if you want to succeed. There are times when the going is tough but these are far outweighed by the times when you are told someone has really enjoyed and appreciated the food you have
Natalie Duffy
Salty Dog Bar and Bistro & El Tico Beach Cantina
There is no typical day! My weeks and months follow a format that are influenced by the seasons, so
this routine doesn't change with menus and marketing generally being prepared six months in advance. However, every day can be different with challenges sent to test me regularly varying from anything to do with personnel matters, training, customer enquiries, menu creations and design, financial reports, maintenance & marketing. Monday's are absolutely crazy sometimes; they are beginning and end of the week with takings and wages being processed from the week before and management meetings attended for the week ahead. It's all about communication and planning.
What do you think are the three most important skills to succeed in your career area?
By far the most important attribute not skill per say I have in my chosen career is a genuine passion for hospitality, plus tons of energy, versatility, efficiency fastidious attention to detail and conscientious commitment to doing whatever job I do, well.
Was this something you planned to do or did you change direction at any point in the past? If so, what was that and was it easy to do?
Hospitality was my back up plan. Coming from a show business background, I had every intention of being a super star in the West End, however, once I came down to earth after a couple of years in London (clearly not making it beyond the chorus line) I reverted to plan B and entered into the tourism industry working as a holiday and car hire representative. I loved the interaction with visitors and talking about Jersey, it was an easy sell! I enjoyed the independence of managing my own day plus I was motivated by commission lead sales of tickets for attractions, booking car hire and boat trips to France or Guernsey. It was fun, I earned good money and met some amazing people.
What do you love most about working in your career area?
I take great pride in being a part of a team that pulls together the pleasurable experience of great food, excellent service and a relaxed professional atmosphere, however, the best part is seeing the results of all that coordinated effort. Serving people and seeing the pleasure on their faces whilst enjoying a meal or drink in one of our establishments is immensely rewarding.
Are there any negative aspects of working in your career area that people considering it should be aware of?
People talk about the unsociable hours, but actually once you are in this industry it all fits into place and the hours can provide an opportunity for a more diverse structure to leisure and family time, the work and life balance is just not based around the 9-5 regime, that suits some people. As for pay, well generally, the more skilled & experienced you are the more you can earn, but isn t that the same in any industry?
What training / qualifications did you undertake for your current role or are you currently undertaking?
I took a hotel reception course at Highlands after my 10 GCSE s before heading off to drama college. When I returned to the Island after travelling the world (which I would classify as a valuable qualification in life generally) I worked as a temp in many of our finance and law offices in St. Helier and whilst there I used the tutorials to teach myself and develop my computer skills as well as becoming familiar with office administration procedures. All this experience was the foundation of my broad knowledge and subsequent ability to adapt and take on any challenge this business can throw at me.
Is there any other information that would be of interest to someone thinking of this career?
If you really have a passion for
this industry then pursue it! There are many avenues you can follow including taking the wide variety of courses at Highlands from barista training to management apprenticeships or attending specialist hospitality colleges around the world. There is no
set route into this industry,
you can start as a waitress
and work your way right up
to the top, it s all up to you.
Introduction to the
Retail Industry
The retail industry covers a huge variety of employers. From the designer fashion sector to the craft and rural retail sectors; from the ethical trade sector to food retail and specialist retailers in jewellery, gold, antiques, toys, books, wine, art, motor vehicle.
Add to the mix on-line retailers such as E-Bay, Amazon, MoonPig; small independent retailers; large international organisations and jobs in HR, finance and IT .. and you are beginning to get the picture about the huge range of retail employers.
The types of jobs available in the industry are also varied. We have all heard of customer service staff and retail managers but how much do you know about visual merchandising; purchasing; modelling and analytics; solution architects (e-commerce); the use of virtual and augmented reality in retail?
Retail is an industry that rewards hard work, creativity and enthusiasm and as it is an international industry, once you have gained experience and skills in Jersey it is possible to gain employment with retailers in other parts of the world.
This section will give you a brief overview of the sector in Jersey and the sector in the UK and if you are interested in finding out more, visit the What Next' section.
Amanda Goddard
Bambola Toymaster
There is no typical day for me! Day to day tasks include helping customers, dealing with stock in and out of the warehouse, merchandising, window displays and of course testing products (yes that means I build LEGO!). More specifically to my role I am also responsible for meeting with suppliers, responding to emails, managing social media pages, paying invoices, putting together orders and stock checks, and also trips to the UK for meetings, store visits and to view new products and ranges. Every day is so different but there is always time for fun and a cup of tea!
What do you think are the three most Are there any negative
important skills to succeed in your aspects of working in
career area? your career area that
Communication This is one of the people considering it
most important parts of customer should be aware of?
service. Christmas may be the
best time but can also
Flexibility To keep up with the ever be the worst time as
changing day. that is when
Organisation I have to deal with you are
approximately 70 suppliers and needing to
around 5,000 different product lines. work harder
and longer
Was this something you planned to hours
do or did you change direction at any to keep
point in the past? If so, what was that up with
and was it easy to do? customer
I left college with the typical needs.
assumption that I would get a job in The time
an office environment. I was already does
working as a Saturday sales assistant pass quickly
at Bambola and was then offered a though as you are
full time position until I found a real so busy.
job. That was nine years ago. I studied
a long-distance Psychology degree What training / qualifications did you and once I had qualified I was at the undertake for your current role or are point where I loved my job so much. I you currently undertaking?
was offered more opportunities to be I learnt most of my knowledge involved with buying responsibilities through working and asking questions that I decided this was the right job and am now currently studying a environment for me and I chose to Business Studies degree with the work toward my current role. With Open University. This has definitely hard work you can progress in retail helped solidify the knowledge I need and I am able to use my artistic flair in for the role. I now know how the
the role. I couldn t imagine now being business works and runs in order to confined to a desk all day. be successful.
What do you love most about Is there any other information that working in your career area? would be of interest to someone The main thing I love about my role thinking of this career?
is the trips to London Toy Fair and There is now a Retail Knowledge buying shows. The people make the course at Highlands College which role really enjoyable, I work with two of my colleagues have attended a great team and we have great which would have been beneficial at customers and suppliers. Knowing the beginning of my journey. There is that we get to see the toys children also the opportunity to then progress (and adults) will want before they to a Retail Management course which even know they want them makes the would give you the skills you need to job even more rewarding. Christmas progress in retail.
time is the best time to work in retail
and we get to help Santa fulfil his
orders.
SS OWNER
Clare Clarke
Pebble (a boutique lifestyle store and interior design business)
My typical days vary! I could be on site visits, doing design work, catching up on admin, social media posts, ordering for the shop, being with customers in the shop or sneaking in a game of tennis (perks of own business!)
What do you think are the three most What training / qualifications important skills to succeed in your did you undertake for your career area? current role or are you currently Hard work and determination, undertaking?
innovation and customer service. I have a degree in Archaeology
and professional qualifications Was this something you planned to in HR and although these seem do or did you change direction at any completely unrelated to my point in the past? If so, what was that current career I think that the and was it easy to do? skills I learnt in particularly in the Always a dream to have my own business environment has set business for as long as I can me in good stead. Sometimes remember, but for a while I worked I think qualifications only
in the corporate world latterly for an get you so far, practical
American FMCG company, heading experience, learning from
up their HR department. I was never mistakes, that s what really
truly happy in that role. I had a major teaches you a lot.
catalyst for change which was my Dad
getting diagnosed with cancer and I Is there any other
decided life was too short to not be information that would
happy in my work. So in 2009 I moved be of interest to
back to Jersey, took a lease on a shop someone thinking of
and started to build my business. this career?
I m lucky now that I love
What do you love most about what I do .so my advice
working in your career area? would be to find a job you
Being my own boss! I get to make all love and you ll never have
the decisions and set the direction to work a day in your life.
for the business and I don t have
to answer to anyone else. I have
AMAZING staff and do love working
with them and bouncing ideas off
them. I also love being able to express
my creativity through my work.
Are there any negative aspects of working in your career area that people considering it should be aware of?
Retail is a tough environment so you need to be able to constantly evolve and innovate. Oh and paperwork, I d much rather be dressing a house or redesigning the shop than catching up on admin. You need to keep on top of the paperwork side of the business to ensure everything else runs smoothly and you get to do the fun bits!!
Ffion Giulitti
Bella Fiori
This can be anything from making orders for delivery, general cleaning of the shop and stock area, doing wedding consultations/preparations, catching up on paper work, whilst keeping on top of walk in customer orders too.
What do you think are the three most important skills to succeed in your career area? You need to be able to multitask efficiently, be organised and be able to work all hours at peak times.
Was this something you planned to do or did you change direction at any point in the past? If so, what was that and was it easy to do? I had always liked flowers as a child, but never thought of it as a career choice until my Mum found me a Saturday job at the local florist back in North Wales.
Is there any other information that would be of interest to someone thinking of this career? I look at it as more a vocation than a job. You have to be truly dedicated to the craft and work all the long hours it takes to understand the flowers you work with. Going to florist workshops in the UK and the flower markets in Hollands is always worthwhile. Having a passion for flowers and
constantly striving to
think of new ideas. You
never stop learning.
I then went on to train at the local college. Once I had qualified my tutor put me up for a job in Jersey, which I got and have been here ever since.
What do you love most about working in your career area?
It amazes me still all the varieties and colours of flowers. Being able to advise people of what variety will work best with their colour scheme for their wedding/event and seeing it all come together never gets old.
Are there any negative aspects of working in your career area that people considering it should be aware of?
You have to do long hours and often miss out on weekends due to wedding season and other peak periods. Holidays always have to be squeezed in when you can and worked round the season. It is definitely not a 9.00am to 5.00pm job.
What training / qualifications did you undertake for your current role or are you currently undertaking?
I started as a Saturday kid and worked holidays, which is where I gained experience. I then enrolled in college and did the NVQ Level 2 in Floristry, while also working full-time at a florist. Everything else since college I have learnt through experience.
Rachel Concannon
Rachel's Textiles Studio
Everyday is different - I open up around 9ish (officially open at 10 most days). If I don't have a class, the day involves serving customers, sorting paper work, ordering new stock. Huge amounts of tidying as the fabrics and trims all get a bit messy, or depending on what mood I am in I will tackle the many sewing projects that I have on the go. If I have a class then it is full on helping students with their work and then clearing up after that.
What do you think are the three most Is there any other important skills to succeed in your career area? information that would As a business owner, I need to be able to deal be of interest to
with the paper work and make sure that I am someone thinking of balancing my books.As a teacher, I need to have this career?
a high level of sewing and teaching skills. And as You do need to have
a maker I need to be creative high-end skills
if you want to
Was this something you planned to do or did sew for a living.
you change direction at any point in the past? Working in the
If so, what was that and was it easy to do? field alongside a
I was teaching up to A-level Textiles at JCG skilled professional School for many years. I decided four years would be useful. You ago that I needed a career change and wanted do need to love to sew. to be my own boss again. It was a bit scary as
I was earning a very good salary as a teacher
and it was all down to me to make my business
a success. Jersey business helped a great deal
when I set up.
What do you love most about working in your career area?
I love it so much: being my own boss, with no one to tell me what to do; seeing the wonderful outcomes and the joy that people have during the many classes that I take; being creative and producing my own work and living amongst the amazing fabrics and trims.
Are there any negative aspects of working in your career area that people considering it should be aware of?
It is hard slog, physically and mentally. My husband helps with the clearing and sorting, but the paperwork is huge, I can t afford to be ill and I don t often get holiday time.
What training / qualifications did you undertake for your current role or are you currently undertaking?
I gained a BED in Home Economics many moons ago & have honed my skills over the years attending many food courses, particularly in sugar art and more over the last 15 years or so in Art Textiles.
RECRUITMENT R
Claudia Sutton
Rowlands Recruitment
Every day is different and involves juggling a multitude of tasks! Typically, however, it involves speaking with clients and candidates regarding new opportunities, managing my email inbox, submitting applications, arranging interviews and - on a great day - making offers of employment to jobseekers! I am also away from my desk a lot, either meeting with clients at their offices to discuss current opportunities, or with job seekers to discuss their experience and their career aspirations. It is usually busy, non-stop in fact, and varied which means the day flies and you never believe it when you see it is 5.00pm!
What do you think are the three most experience for each client and important skills to succeed in your jobseeker.
career area?
Honesty & integrity - these come Are there any negative aspects of hand in hand and are key when working in your career area that building long lasting relationships with people considering it should be clients and candidates. aware of?
There can be a negative perception Communication - we work with a of recruitment unfortunately. Some
diverse range of people from juniors think that recruiters are dishonest and through to executives so it s important focused purely driven by money and to communicate professionally while commission. This is the case in some also in a friendly manner. instances but definitely should not be
Listening - crucial when applied to recruiters in general. Every understanding both the needs of a agency is different and it s really client and a candidate and finding the important to work with a reputable best match. organisation whose values are aligned
with your own.
Was this something you planned to
do or did you change direction at any What training / qualifications did you point in the past? If so, what was that undertake for your current role or are and was it easy to do? you currently undertaking?
I had never considered recruitment When I started, I did a mix of on- before, mainly because I didn t know the-job and class room training; this anything about it! After I graduated included an interview skills training with a degree in Spanish and English course in London, employment law Literature, I came back to Jersey training with a local law firm, as well feeling a little lost. My priority was as in-house system training. We have finding an interesting people-focused also had industry experts in to teach role that was also creative so I went us about the sectors we are recruiting to Rowlands to find out more about for i.e. compliance, so we are more my career options and the job market informed when working with clients generally. My meeting was positive and able to provide better guidance and the more I learnt about the to candidates. In the future, I would company and the role of a recruiter, like to complete the REC recruitment the more I felt it complimented my qualification and also do the CIPD skills and ticked all the boxes for me! qualification, with particular focus on I have now progressed from trainee a coaching and mentoring. to senior consultant and I am also
responsible for marketing - not only Is there any other information that fulfilling my desire to help people but would be of interest to someone also my creative interests. thinking of this career?
Recruitment is a fantastic career What do you love most about option if you like working with working in your career area? people and want a busy, varied Meeting such a diverse range of and challenging role. Working in people and helping them with recruitment gives you a diverse range something as little as re-formatting of skills and also opens up the door a CV, or changing their lives by to many other career opportunities helping them change career direction, in areas such as; human resources, or helping them to relocate to the relationship management, project Island. I also love the fact I can work management and operations. People independently, while also part of a tend to fall into recruitment, but the great team, manage my own portfolio majority that do, especially those and tailor this to my own personal at Rowlands, can truly say they love style, providing a unique and positive what they do (cheesy but true)!
G GP
Andrew Dickinson
The Co-operative Society
I usually arrive at work at shortly after 0730hrs, log on, look ahead to the clinics and review some results. The morning surgery starts at 0800hrs and we will see people with the full spectrum of health-related problems: acute infections, health promotion, chronic disease management, family planning, mental health issues, addiction problems, vaccinations, travel medicine etc. Home visits take place over the middle of the day and then we return for the afternoon surgery which finishes at 1800hrs. Thereafter further results that have come in need to be reviewed as well as referral letters to write and such like.
What do you think are the three most hospital/trauma medicine and important skills to succeed in your career area? occupational medicine. In
The ability to relate to people, understand their addition to my NHS training and issues and to know how to help them overcome completing membership of them or to deal with them. Essentially therefore: The Royal College of General empathy, interpersonal skills and medical Practitioners, I achieved knowledge. diplomas in obstetrics and
gynaecology, occupational
Was this something you planned to do or did medicine and pre-hospital
you change direction at any point in the past? emergency medicine. I am
If so, what was that and was it easy to do? currently studying for the
I had always contemplated a career in medicine. diploma of dermatology
I liked the prospect of a vocational job which at Queen Mary University combined the use of sciences in a very positive of London.
context. Within medical school I really enjoyed
each placement and realised early on that I Is there any other
would want to retain this breadth of experience information that would
and learning and become a generalist. The be of interest to someone valued position within a community, the thinking of this career? continuity that afforded and the work-life We may well all end up
balance were all reasons that being a GP working until we are 80! appealed. Don t be put off about a
late career change. There
What do you love most about working in your are varied access points
career area? for medicine. Scientific
I love the privileged position of fulfilling a knowledge is typically tested vocation, which people turn to for help. It in the form of entrance
carries responsibility and is challenging but is examinations, access courses immensely rewarding. or A-Levels. Universities detail
the entrance requirements on Are there any negative aspects of working in their websites but candidates your career area that people considering it must also show non-academic should be aware of? commitment to a caring
General Practice is not a speciality which profession eg. voluntary work, compartmentalises care with only a brief interface community-focussed work. within the patient s lifetime as would often
be the case for hospital specialities. We are our
patients doctor in continuity. This is a privilege
but means we must manage risk. Sometimes it is
tricky to avoid bringing work home.
What training / qualifications did you undertake for your current role or are you currently undertaking?
I studied medicine for five years. I chose to join the British Army which provided additional training and experience to that which was provided within the NHS solely, such as pre-
T TAX MANAGER
Laura Cook
PwC
Once I've had my morning cup of tea, I'll check my calendar and emails to see what lies ahead. Every day is unique which keeps me interested and engaged. Some examples of my tasks include reviewing work prepared by my team, meeting with clients, preparing proposal documents for potential work and researching tax legislation and articles. More recently, I've had an active role in collaborating with our marketing team regarding tax events and communications. My work also involves working closely with the audit and advisory departments, as well as with other PwC offices in different locations around the world.
What do you think are the three most important skills to succeed in your career area
Analytical skills to read technical articles and legislation
Organisation to deal with a number of clients and projects
Self-motivation to push projects through to completion
Was this something you planned to do or did you change direction at any point in the past? If so, what was that and was it easy to do? I originally started my career at PwC as a school leaver in the audit department, where I spent four years auditing a range of clients in banking, real estate and private equity. Whilst I enjoyed many aspects of the job such as the team work and the accounting methodology, I didn t see myself being an auditor forever. Tax was always an area that I was interested in and one that I was really curious to further explore. So, two years ago, I set about organising an internal secondment to the tax department after having a really helpful career chat with one of the Tax Directors here. This worked out really well and has resulted in a permanent move to the Tax team for me.
What do you love most about working in your career area?
Every day brings a different challenge. At PwC, we work on a variety of different clients (corporate, partnerships, trusts, personal) and also many different areas of tax; this is something that you wouldn t experience in a big city, where you become very specialised in a single area. No two pieces of work are the same and I find the variety extremely motivating.
Are there any negative aspects of working in your career area that people considering it should be aware of?
As with all jobs, there are deadlines which must be met. The consequences of not meeting tax deadlines could be risky and result in financial consequences. It is therefore necessary at times to work longer hours and remain calm under pressure to ensure that the work is completed on time.
What training / qualifications did you undertake for your current role or are you currently undertaking?
All graduates and school
leavers at PwC are required
to take either the ACCA or
ACA qualification. I qualified
as a Chartered Certified
Accountant (ACCA) in
January 2016 so I m not
currently studying towards another qualification. My
aim for the next 12
months is to focus
on developing my
experience on the
job. However, I
am very open
to taking tax-
specific qualification
in the future such
as Association of
Taxation Technicians
(ATT) or Advanced
Diploma in International
Taxation (ADIT), which
some of my colleagues
have completed. I think
it is important to ensure
that you stay technically
relevant in such a fast-
changing industry.
Is there any other information that would
be of interest to someone thinking of this career?
It s a common misconception that you don t get to travel as much working in tax, in comparison to areas such
as audit and advisory. My experience has been quite the contrary! Most recently, I ve had the opportunity to travel to places such as the UK and Prague, with more destinations on the horizon over the next 12 months.
O OCCUPATIONAL THERAPY
Enya Ferey
States of Jersey – (Samares Ward , an orthopaedic and neurological rehabilitation unit)
A typical day would involve an 8.00am team meeting regarding the medical update of all patients from the nurse in charge. Following this, I prepare and complete a home visit, which involves assessing a patient's capability to return home safely and independently following their rehabilitation. During this time I make recommendations regarding home adaptations or advise on the support required for discharge. Later in the day I will meet a new patient on the ward and complete a joint goal setting exercise. Following this I will finish the day with a cognitive standardised assessment, which involves a series of questions to identify brain function, memory, object recognition and language comprehension.
What do you think are the three most important skills to succeed in your career area?
Enthusiasm: to have passion and encourage the best in patients rehabilitation.
Strong minded: to voice professional reasoning and advocate for patients.
Empathy: a caring nature is essential.
Was this something you planned to do or did you change direction at any point in the past? If so, what was that and was it easy to do?
At college I worked with various occupational therapists following a written personal statement about myself. By the end of placement I was quite certain occupational therapy was the career for me. I worked in the hospital for two years in Radiology and other wards to gain experience and finances before commencing my degree. Some people decide at a later stage to pursue occupational therapy as a career. In this case if you have three years out of education you require to study an access course at Highlands College prior to starting university. However, if you have previously attained education to a degree level you can take a two years accelerated master degree in Occupational Therapy.
What do you love most about working in your career area?
The best part about being an occupational therapists is working with patients from beginning to end and making a positive difference to people s lives. To watch a patient walk out of the ward who never thought they would walk again with a whole new lease of life is inspiring and makes your work seem all the more worthwhile. Another strong quality to occupational therapy is the variety of opportunities. I currently work
in rehabilitation however there are different areas such as mental health,
children, community, stroke teams. will help you decide if it is the right Ultimately no matter where you work career for you. If you do decide to each day is a unique experience, I take the OT path I hope that you find have yet to meet an OT that ever gets the experience as rewarding as I have bored. found it to be.
Are there any negative aspects of working in your career area that people considering it should be aware of?
The job can be emotional challenging. Working with people with life changing conditions can be testing.
In reality, not everyone gets better and not everyone meets their goals despite their best efforts. I often have to break bad news to patients and their families. But it s about supporting the patient to live to their best quality of life and embrace the skills that they have.
What training / qualifications did you undertake for your current role or are you currently undertaking?
A-Levels or A-Level equivalents (including a science, psychology is also very useful) or a BTEC diploma in Health and Social Care. Once A-Level education is acquired,
three year degree at university, BSc Occupational Therapy. Personally I undertook four months of study in the Netherlands. I would recommend studying aboard if the opportunity arises for any course as this helps
to expand knowledge, experiences, perspectives and increases employability.
Is there any other information that would be of interest to someone thinking of this career?
Gain some experience in the health and social care setting whether that be shadowing the hospital, child care or care facilities to identify if you enjoy the health care setting itself. There are official websites such as the Royal College of Occupational Therapy which diversely explains the role of occupational therapy that
JERSEY HERITAGE J
Georgia Kelly
Jersey Heritage
I am based at Jersey Archive in the Historic Buildings team. I record anything of historical interest in Jersey including historic buildings and archaeological sites. This information is inputted into a database and each site is mapped onto GIS software. This involves a lot of historical research and working with other organisations and local historians in Jersey. This is known as an HER which will be launched online in 2020. I also run the Jersey Young Archaeologists' Club which allows 8-16 year olds to have a go at archaeology focussing on a different topic each month. I help to promote Jersey Heritage's sites and events through social media particularly Facebook and Instagram.
What do you think are the three most important skills to succeed in your career area?
An interest and enthusiasm in history Research skills
Communication e.g. with other organisations, local historians, talks to the public or at conferences
Was this something you planned to do or did you change direction at any point in the past? If so, what was that and was it easy to do?
I ve always wanted to work in archaeology/ museums so I m extremely lucky and grateful to be able to work in a job where I can use my degree locally in Jersey. I briefly wanted to be a florist which I tried during my Trident placement which was a good way to find out it was not for me. Straight after my placement I began volunteering at Jersey Heritage. That was ten years ago!
What do you love most about working in your career area?
Working in heritage is quite varied so I ve enjoyed the different projects I ve worked on including WWII aircraft crash sites, the Le Catillon II coin hoard and now the Jersey HER. I am always learning something new because of the research I do as part of my current role.
Are there any negative aspects of working in your career area that people considering it should be aware of?
Heritage jobs are few and far between especially in Jersey. A lot of roles can be temporary or voluntary but it is worth getting as much experience as you can.
What training / qualifications did you undertake for your current role or are you currently undertaking?
My BSc in Archaeology and particular modules within my degree helped me with my current role. Later this year, I will be undertaking some training in mapping software and working with the British Museum as part of their Knowledge Exchange Programme. I am also looking into joining the Chartered Institute for Archaeologists and undertaking a distance learning masters in Museum Studies.
Is there any other information that would be of interest to someone thinking of this career? The heritage sector is a great community to be a part of and a bit like Jersey everyone knows each other. If you re interested in history/ archaeology try and volunteer as this will show your enthusiasm and you can make contacts within that organisation.
B BLOGGER
Laura Morel
Direct Input
Every day is wildly different, I could be writing press releases, co-ordinating an event for our clients, or teaching a social media class. Our core objective is communication, how to effectively get across our client's stories and brands. As well as the more traditional form of writing press releases we manage social media accounts and tend to do more and more communication through online platforms. We have clients across a range of industries from bakeries to international banks, so it's nice to have that range to keep things interesting.
What do you think are the three most What training / qualifications did you important skills to succeed in your career area? undertake for your current role or are you A passion to tell good stories, confidence to currently undertaking?
communicate your ideas and most importantly I didn t have any experience or the ability to write good copy! qualifications in PR before I started
at Direct Input so it is possible to Was this something you planned to do or did cross over if you have talent. I you change direction at any point in the past? had some limited experience in
If so, what was that and was it easy to do? journalism and other than that
I was working as a fashion journalist, but gave had been self-taught over the
up that dream when I moved back to Jersey years. Now I have the option to
shortly after university. I fell into working in take a qualification from the
trust for 14 years, but was always involved with Chartered Institute of Public
writing in a corporate capacity. Three years Relations for is specifically for
ago I decided it was time for a change so I PR professionals.
set up my blog Nineby5 to gather a portfolio
of writing and started the search for a career Is there any other
that would involve writing. It wasn t easy, firstly information that would
because the pay is so starkly different when you be of interest to
leave finance, and also because I found career someone thinking of
options for creative minds in Jersey very limited. this career?
Eventually I stumbled upon the role at Direct I think if you want to get
Input, secured the job of my dreams and have into writing, the best thing
never looked back. you can do is write as much
as possible. After starting my
What do you love most about working in your blog, I started freelancing at
career area? a few magazines in Jersey
Getting to write every single day! Whether it is and this opened a lot of
an interview piece or just preparing a brochure, doors and create further
I love the challenge of being able to make the opportunities. In a way,
mundane come to life and to create a story my blog almost became
where perhaps one doesn t exist. It is also an online CV for any
refreshing to be part of so many success stories prospective employers.
for our clients, we get to talk about so many I also found it useful
great things happening in Jersey. to talk to as many
people as I possibly
Are there any negative aspects of working in could that were
your career area that people considering it writers or who had
should be aware of? careers involving
I used to think the downside was that the salary writing.
isn t comparable to a career in finance, but now I
think that s a very negative view point. If you are
ambitious and driven enough I think you will be
rewarded, who knows - maybe I ll own my own
PR company one day!
CRICKET DEVELOPMENT MANAGER C
Lee Meloy
Jersey Cricket Board
A great aspect to my job is that every day is different whether it is sessions in primary schools, senior national team training or office work. During the winter months I'm mainly based in the office organising our various initiatives and community programmes. In the summer months most of my time is spent working outdoors with the junior squads on our performance pathway and preparing our senior squad for ICC tournaments around the world.
What do you think are the three most important skills to succeed in your career area?
As a coach you need to have strong communication, leadership and organisation skills. Coaching is about creating an environment for the players to thrive.
Was this something you planned to do or did you change direction at any point in the past? If so, what was that and was it easy to do?
I have always been sport mad and knew I wanted to something within sport from an early age. The more I worked with different coaches the more it intrigued me as a profession. I found that helping others came quite naturally having been a captain at the majority of junior levels. Once I started coaching I caught the bug and knew that would be my focus throughout university and into my professional career.
What do you love most about working in your career area? Being able to see players improve and be successful when they have worked so hard to do so is a hugely rewarding aspect. Travelling to cities such as Los Angeles, Johannesburg and Kuala Lumpur for ICC senior team tournaments in a performance environment has to be up there.
Are there any negative aspects of working in your career area that people considering it should be aware of?
It requires a lot of time out of your social life as it s not a 9.00am to 5.00pm Monday to Friday job. You re often required to work weekends and weekday evenings to ensure you maximise the time available with players outside of work/school hours.
What training / qualifications did you undertake for your current role or are you currently undertaking?
I have an honours degree in Sports Development and Coaching from the University of Gloucestershire, UKCC ECB Level 1, 2 and 3 coaching qualifications along with all requirements that come with that including DBS, safeguarding and first aid certificates.
Is there any other information that would be of interest to someone thinking of this career?
It can be one of the most rewarding jobs but you have to put in the time and effort to make a career out of it. Finding the right balance of work and downtime is vital otherwise you can start to lose sight of why you enjoy it. Don t forget to continually improve yourself as a coach; learning isn t just for the players.
The Annual Guide to Careers in Jersey 73
C CLAIMS HANDLER
Marta Vieira
Islands
No day is the same working within the claims department at Islands, which is great! I am continuously learning on a daily basis and wouldn't have it any other way. It truly is a great place to work, as there is no typical' day in the office.
What do you think are the three most we also have external training for our current important skills to succeed in your career area? employees to develop their skills. Also, there To have patience, be a team player, and be are plenty opportunities to take exams approachable for me are three of the most and grow in the company.
important skills. Being a team player especially,
is a skill which will lead you to be successful Is there any other information
within Islands, as we all rely on each other. that would be of interest to
someone thinking of this
Was this something you planned to do or did career?
you change direction at any point in the past? From dealing with Motor
If so, what was that and was it easy to do? Claims and assisting
To be honest, a career in Insurance was not clients with repairing
what I had in mind when I studied business at their vehicles to dealing
Highlands College. However, when choosing with Travel claims and
where to go for work experience I selected supporting injured
insurance as one of my options, as I wanted clients on their holiday
to know what it was about. Fast forward three really shows the diversity
years later, and here I am! I wouldn t change a of the job. Therefore, if
thing. The working environment is fantastic and you are someone who
very diverse. is looking for a change
in career and are keen
What do you love most about working in your to learn I would 100%
career area? consider Islands.
The people. You will meet and be able to work
with great people, no matter what the day may
bring someone will always make you smile.
There is such a friendly environment within
the office, which really makes a difference and
makes work pleasant.
Are there any negative aspects of working in your career area that people considering it should be aware of?
There are days when you will be under pressure. Being in the claims department specifically, you do need to have the skills I mentioned above, but you also do need to have a certain strength whilst dealing with the workload. However, the rewards and sense of achievement within the job surely compensate any negative aspects.
What training / qualifications did you undertake for your current role or are you currently undertaking?
I was initially trained within the job and became a Claims Assistant. After a year of being an assistant, there was a job vacancy to become a Claims Handler. I was fortunate enough to be successful in my application and went through in-house training to become a handler. We now have our very own training office within the building where new employees are trained, and
H HEAD OF BEARS
Leila Boyd
Jersey Zoo
My day starts at 8.00am. The first thing I do is check the animals and say good morning. Then it's time to prepare the breakfasts. Once the food is prepared the big clean begins. I am based on the bear section so this means I am in charge of not only our three bears but, eleven meerkats, two otters, eight howler monkeys and three coatis.
We are very lucky at Jersey zoo to have a dedicated team behaviours. In the afternoons (if we are free) we become of volunteers which will help us with the food preparation gardeners and concentrate on enclosure maintenance. By and cleaning. Educating is a big part of my day, I make about 4.00pm the evening food prep starts and we begin sure I make time to talk to members of the public about the dinner feeds and last day checks. All being well we our animals at the feed times. Our animals are also get out about 5.30pm but being a Zoo Keeper you have weighed and health checked regularly so this will be a part to be prepared to stick around longer if an animal needs of our weekly routine. Enrichment is something I make you and you are always on call. We also end our day with sure I do every day for our animals, giving them new and boring paperwork; yes we still have to do the office bits as exciting ways to obtain food or trying out new scents well unfortunately. This is usually a round-up of health and in their enclosure to mimic hunting and scent marking management notes from the day.
What do you think are the three most important skills to succeed in your career area?
Patience, being observant, physical fitness, good time keeping and communication skills are all key skills needed in zoo keeping.
Was this something you planned to do or did you change direction at any point in the past? If so, what was that and was it easy to do?
It sounds like a clichØ but from about the age of 4 I knew I wanted to work with animals in some way, even when I left secondary school I remember getting the end of year award for most likely to work with animals . For a long time my dream was to become a vet nurse and so after college I got a job in the vet area at the JSPCA and loved it! However I quickly realised I knew very little about animals
and was eager to learn more about nutrition, behaviour, conservation and the health and welfare of animals so I applied to study a degree in Animal Science. It was that course that made me decide I d like to become a Conservationist. Now five years on
I am head of the bear section and wouldn t want to be doing anything else!
What do you love most about working in your career area?
I love working up close with some of the world s rarest animals and alongside like-minded and equally passionate people. I also love the education side of my job, seeing how interested children are in our animals and try to influence our visitors to get involved in some way, no matter how small, in conservation. I am helping to conserve endangered species and that is an amazing feeling.
Are there any negative aspects of working in your career area that people considering it should be aware of?
The winter months are long and
the cold weather isn t always fun, although being outside in the rare snow we get and seeing the animals experience it is the best thing ever! Obviously it isn t a glamorous job and you do have to clean out some very smelly residents and on occasion end up being showered with who knows what. The animals become your family and friends and unfortunately we do sometimes lose some of those and it certainly hits you hard. The fact is you will always get attached to them no matter how much you try not to.
What training / qualifications did you undertake for your current role or are you currently undertaking?
The training and learning never ends! This is partly why I love my
job so much, you are always faced with new challenges and tasks, learning something new every day. Qualification wise if you are going for a Zoo Keeping job experience is key, so whether you helped out on a farm or did volunteering at a zoo once a week it counts. They prefer you to have undertaken an animal related course because it sets you up with certain skills but I can honestly say this is the kind of job you will learn as you do.
Is there any other information that would be of interest to someone thinking of this career?
My advice would be to try it out first. Do some volunteering or shadowing to see if it s really for you. We offer a student placement scheme here which is a great experience and most of our keepers here were previous
students! We also have a Keeper for a day experience which is perfect for seeing what a full day as a keeper would be like. Most of all I would say don t give up applying. Zoo Keeping is a very popular job and usually a lot of people have applied when availability comes up and you will stand out if you are passionate and have some experience behind you.
STYLIST S
Mirren McCutcheon
Neon Salon and School
I am really busy within the salon, if I'm not balayaging or foiling, I am answering the telephone, booking clients in, making sure the salon is tidy or stock taking. I am never stuck for something to do- that's for sure.
What do you think are the three most I would encourage everyone to do this as it s important skills to succeed in your career area? more specialised. It includes advanced cutting, Enthusiasm- always give off good, positive colour and my favourite, colour correction. Also energy. A friendly face, is always a nice face! take interest in additional speciality courses and
never stop learning!
Motivation - be passionate and patient with
what you do. Don t rush anything, just focus on Is there any other information that would be of getting it right. Everyday is a school day! interest to someone thinking of this career?
Determination - goal set and have a vision. If you are considering a career in hairdressing Thrive to be the best person you can possibly but still aren t sure- try to get
be in everything you do. Practise makes perfect, some work experience, visit
you can do anything if you put your mind to it! Salon International, pop in to
NEON Salon and School for
Was this something you planned to do or did an informal chat. Just make
you change direction at any point in the past? sure it is the right thing for
If so, what was that and was it easy to do? you! You are a long time
I didn t know exactly what I wanted to do. working- you need to
However, I always knew I was really artistic and love what you do!
it is something I really enjoyed. I completed my
AS Levels, and achieved a distinction in Business
Management. I even had my own business for a
year - but that is a story for another day! At 18, I
wanted to do something I was passionate about
and went to meet the founder of NEON Salon
and School, Victoria Queree. She made it so
easy for me to start my career in hairdressing by
enrolling me on the Level 2 Course at NEON. My
trackers mentor, Roisin, has also been amazing.
She has guided me through my apprenticeship
and is always there when I need support and
advice.
What do you love most about working in your career area?
I am a sucker for Balayage! It is my favourite colour work, as you can use so many techniques to create it. However, to create a change for a client, in which they feel better about themselves is really rewarding. Check out the NEON Instagram hair page to have a look at some things I get up to @neonsalonandschool
Are there any negative aspects of working in your career area that people considering it should be aware of?
Like in any form of employment-starting off as an apprentice can be financially difficult. However- be patient, the harder you work, the quicker you will achieve your goals and be where you want to be.
What training / qualifications did you undertake for your current role or are you currently undertaking?
I have completed my Level 2 Hairdressing at NEON Salon and School which is the foundation every stylist needs. I am also soon to finish my Level 3 Advanced Hairdressing qualification and
The Annual Guide to Careers in Jersey 77
C CORE TECHNICAL SERVICES
TICE
Morgan Franklin
JT Global
I complete daily tasks in security, I then help different areas and try to aid all different types of projects, no day is the same in JT which means lots of learning and change. I am always asking questions and researching; on both google and by asking other staff members, studying is a big part of my role and I am always trying to extend my knowledge at work each and every day.
What do you think are the three most Are there any negative
important skills to succeed in your aspects of working in your
career area? career area that people
Motivation - you need the motivation considering it should be
to learn and work with others. aware of?
I wouldn t say that the following Team work - we each have our role point are negative, but you must
but we all work together to ensure be aware that they may be included tasks are completed. within your role. You need to be able
Patience - things go wrong and you to accept change and have good have to try and aid in fixing them but people skills; you have to work with there may be no simple answers. a variety of people who may have
different opinions and needs, you Was this something you planned to must be respectful and patient. As
do or did you change direction at any for changes, these may only be point in the past? If so, what was that small but sometimes changes
and was it easy to do? are big which also means lots of Technology is a big part of my learning.
life; I always found it easy to grasp
and learn about; working with JT What training / qualifications
was not what I had planned to do did you undertake for your
though. I had studied ICT in school current role or are you currently and college, my plan was to go to undertaking?
university to study healthcare due to A good set of GCSE s ) and
my job previous job in a pharmacy. A-levels or a BTEC, I completed
My teachers advised me to apply to a Level 3 BTEC (ICT) and was
JT and they accepted me which was predicted triple distinction so JT truly exciting. It was hard switching went upon what was predicted, I from healthcare to technology, as think they re open to a variety of healthcare was something me and different grades as long as you show my family always saw as my future you re passionate and willing to role, but it was the best decision improve/learn. They allow you to take I ve ever made because technology a variety of qualifications; I am going is something I naturally love and to hopefully complete my CompTIA connect with. exams this year then hopefully go
onto CCNA or a degree.
What do you love most about
working in your career area? Is there any other information that I love the fact that no day is the same would be of interest to someone and change is something that is a big thinking of this career?
part of my job which is interesting Just be yourself and don t limit and challenging; learning is something yourself; If you have questions just I love to do and every single day I ask as there s no harm in asking and learn something new. The people I am try to do lots of research; the more surrounded by amazing and talented research you do the more you ll people from different backgrounds learn and keeping up to date is key and personalities which is so inspiring. in a technology related role. Also, be
honest, if you re interested in a certain area just express it and you ll have a better chance in getting where you want to be.
M MARINE ENGINEER
Owen Pryce
Royal Navy
Generally speaking, my working pattern is working seven days a week 8:00am to 4:00pm, with the exception of duties. Jobs I do throughout the day vary vastly from things such as changing a lightbulb to maintaining the ships gas turbines. My job is mainly general maintenance on-board the ship of which I am deployed on at the time.
What do you think are the three most important skills to succeed in your career area?
Collaborating with others. Concentrating on the job at hand. Time management.
Was this something you planned to do or did you change direction at any point in the past? If so, what was that and was it easy to do?
From a young age I had always planned to join the police force however there is a minimum requirement to be at least 21 years of age. Therefore, I started looking at alternative options. After doing some research into the Royal Navy, it was something that I had an interest in given my experience with the local sea cadets and thought I would give it a try as a career and so far I am enjoying the experience.
What do you love most about working in your career area?
I love the fact that I move from base to base or ship to ship so often. This is great for building your people skills and a network of people as you are constantly meeting new people and making new friends. It s definitely helped with my self-confidence.
What training / qualifications did you undertake for your current role or are you currently undertaking?
In order to join the Royal Navy I didn t need any qualifications as such. Once you complete the ten weeks of basic training the Royal Navy puts everyone who needs it through the City & Guilds Functional Skills giving the necessary qualifications in English, Maths and ICT. You then join the Defence School of Marine Engineering where you study for 30 weeks and undertake theory and practical assessments to gain a Level 2 Diploma in Marine Engineering. Once on-board a ship you have two task books to complete before moving up to the rank
of Leading Hand where you then return to the Defence School of Marine Engineering to complete another year and a half of study.
Is there any other information that would be of interest to someone thinking of this career?
The best advice I can give is that if you re having thoughts about joining the Royal Navy I d just go for it. The worst that can happen is that you find out that it s not for you and you decide to leave. Before joining I put the positives up against the negatives and made the decision to join. I am enjoying the experience and finding the skills and qualifications I am gaining really positive.
Are there any negative aspects of working in your career area that people considering it should be aware of? The first ten weeks of basic training can be hard at times, especially getting used to not being around your family and friends. There are also a few jobs on board a ship that nobody wants to do, either because they re such difficult jobs or because the job description isn t too appealing.
TEACHING ASSISTANT T
Sophie Picot
Mont a L'abbe School
A typical day at work for me consists of many different things. Each morning, I greet all of the children alongside my colleagues and we spend time playing with them and reading stories so they are ready to start their routine each day. We have a class circle time in which we say good morning to all of the children, counting and listening to and learning songs which are relevant to our topic at the time.
We then have a different activity each morning such as going to one of our sensory rooms, using the equipment in the hall, going to the music room or doing class based activities such as art. I then help to feed the children at lunch time and assist them with their toileting routines. We have more activities in the afternoon such as swimming and PE before having assembly. I also have to keep parents updated on how their child s day has been, we make sure each child has left with their parent or is safely on our school bus and then I finish the day by cleaning and tidying ready for the next day.
What do you think are the three most important skills to succeed in your career area?
Enthusiasm, patience and resilience. You have to enjoy working with children, be able to allow time for things to happen and you won t always succeed in activities with the children first time around.
Was this something you planned to do or did you change direction at any point in the past? If so, what was that and was it easy to do?
I had always wanted to work with children and Special Educational Needs has been what I ve wanted to focus on for longer than I can remember! I was very lucky that during my degree, I was put on placement at the Jersey Child Care Trust and through the placement I learnt about their Special Needs Inclusion Project. I had told them that I wanted to get into a career with children with SEN and they offered me some hours working one to one with a child in a private nursery and I absolutely loved it! It reaffirmed that I was picking the correct career path for me.
What training / qualifications did you undertake for your current role or are you currently undertaking?
I have a Level 3 qualification in Childcare and Education and I also have a degree in Childhood Studies, however you do not need to have a degree to do my job and a lot of my colleagues have other qualifications. You learn a lot while working and I have learnt a lot since starting at the school two years ago. We are also provided with training opportunities throughout the year. It is beneficial to have some experience working in a school environment though.
Is there any other information that would be of interest to someone thinking of this career?
If you are thinking of working with children with special educational needs then it is definitely worth getting some experience behind you! There are places that you can volunteer at, for example Autism Jersey, or even undertake training such as SPELL or Makaton. It is a really rewarding job and I feel so privileged to be able to work in such an incredible place with awesome children and staff.
What do you love most about working in your career area? It is so hard to pick out just one single thing that I love about my job as there are far too many things. If I had to pick one then it would have to be having the opportunity to work one to one with children doing activities such as art, reading and speech and language work.
Are there any negative aspects of working in your career area that people considering it should be aware of?
I wouldn t actually say that there is anything overly negative about my job! You can be faced with dealing with some challenging behaviour on a daily basis and it is obviously tiring but it is definitely worth it when you see the progress each child makes over the year.
The Annual Guide to Careers in Jersey 81
Y YOGA TEACHER
Vanessa Garrett
Vanessa Garrett Yoga
In addition to teaching yoga, I have a full-time job office job, so my days are very busy & varied! For yoga, in addition to teaching, I spend my time preparing for classes, taking bookings, following up emails, planning future events and continuous development through training courses and workshops.
What do you think are the three most important skills to succeed in your career area?
People focused your students should be the centre of everything you do; build genuine connections, care about their experience and respect their time and energy by being prepared for classes/events
Enthusiasm it s essential that you love what you do
Authenticity understand your core values, and learn to say no to anything that doesn t align with them
What training / qualifications did you undertake for your current role or are you currently undertaking?
200 hours Vinyasa Yoga Teacher Training 80 hours Restorative Yoga Teacher training 100 hours Yin Yoga & Mindfulness
50 hours Anatomy training
Is there any other information that would be of interest to someone thinking of this career? Be super supportive of others success but never feel like you need to be anyone other than yourself or do what everyone else is doing. Your greatest gift, is your unique ideas and offerings.
Was this something you planned to do or did you change direction at any point in the past? If so, what was that and was it easy to do? I have been in my full-time office role since leaving uni, so teaching Yoga alongside my office job was unplanned. Once I d decided I wanted to teach, I took a month off work to complete my first 200 hours teacher training. Subsequent trainings have been undertaken using my annual leave allowance. There are lots of teacher trainings out there; spend time as a Yoga student first so you know what you re looking for, do your research and look for course reviews before committing to a training course.
What do you love most about working in your career area?
Without a doubt; the students; they are lovely
& so supportive; I feel lucky that we have built such a wonderfully inclusive community.
Are there any negative aspects of working in your career area that people considering it should be aware of?
Starting out can be tough; keep going and don t be disheartened or doubt yourself
GUIDE TO POST 16 SCHEMES
LEARNING THROUGH WORK
01534 449 440 skillsjersey@gov.je www.gov.je/skillsjersey www.facebook.com/skillsjersey www.twitter.com/skills_jersey
WHO ARE SKILLS JERSEY?
Skills Jersey (previously known as Careers Jersey, Trident, Trackers and Student Finance) have been brought together, by the Education Department, to create a centre of excellence with clear links connecting education and life-long learners with industry.
Learning through work: Connect with Education: Careers Guidance:
Whether it is mentoring Offering links between schools, The Careers Guidance team apprentices through colleges, universities, industry offer free, confidential and employment and training or and other education training impartial career guidance,
coordinating work placement providers, Skills Jersey is the hub support and inspiration to and shadowing schemes, Skills where industry and education people of all ages including
Jersey supports Islanders to can work together to benefit school pupils, sixteen plus make informed decisions the local community. students and adults. leading to their future
employment.
OPPORTUNITIES FOR
6 TH FORM/POST 16
Do you have the skills higher education and employers are looking for? If you don't
you could miss out on that place at your preferred university or your dream job.
There are a number of schemes and events available for you to participate in throughout the next two years that will help you collect those essential skills and allow you to learn about jobs and industries you are interested in and those you
might not have thought of.
Schemes and opportunities include:
Entrepreneurship Young Enterprise
Work Shadowing Schemes
Leadership / Marketing / Engineering & Construction / Digital / Hospitality
Legal Profession
Ogier law placement programme & Baker & Partners Advocacy competition
Health
Medical insight days & road shows
Teaching
Teaching insight days
Finance
BASE game and life in finance
Political Debating
The Commonwealth Youth Parliament / Rotary Peace Programme
LEARN ABOUT YOUNG ENTERPRISE
Learn about business, run your own company, have fun and make money.
Work with a group of students from across all of the Island's secondary schools, where you will be guided by business mentors from local companies. It's a useful opportunity to make important contacts for
future employment and a unique work related learning experience on
your CV / UCAS personal statement.
You will apply for a role within your company and will learn from the experts exactly what that involves. You will meet weekly at the offices of
your Young Enterprise company's business advisers (usually for 1-2 hours on a Tuesday, Wednesday or Thursday evening).
You will be required to put in extra time to produce, market and sell your product or service (allow up to four hours a week for this).
When can I apply? | When does the scheme run? | How do I apply? | Will I have help? |
The scheme will be launched in schools & colleges during the Autumn term of Year 12 | The schemes will run between September and May | Submit an application form | Each Young Enterprise company will be assigned to an adviser company, these include firms such as Barclays, G4S, RBC, Seymour Group etc. |
For more information email: d.midgley@gov.je | |||
SCHEMES FOR WORK SHADOWING
Work shadowing allows students to follow a member of staff (usually at managerial level) from three to five days. The student will experience day-to-day activities of a person working within a particular industry. This is a fantastic opportunity to experience the realities of working life, make contacts for the future and gain industry insight. Work shadowing
also provides a unique work related learning experience which can feature on CV's and UCAS personal statements.
Application Process | The Interview Panel | Who can I shadow? | When can I shadow a manager? |
The scheme will be launched in schools and colleges during January of Year 12. Complete an application form for the scheme you would like to participate in. You will be invited to attend an interview with industry professionals | The panel members are friendly and will give you constructive feedback on your performance during the interview as well as your CV and covering letter. This is a unique opportunity – it will not happen after a real job interview. | Skills Jersey works closely with a number of Industry Representative Bodies. These organisations are tasked with finding suitable shadows to match the student's area of interest. | During a school holiday – May half-term, Activity Week at the end of the summer term or the summer break. |
Work Shadowing is not work experience | |||
CURRENT SCHEMES FOR WORK SHADOWING
WORK SHADOWING
LEADERSHIP & MANAGEMENT
Institute of Directors (Yr 12)
The IoD work shadow scheme is a competitive scheme and only students who are successful at interview will be allocated to an IOD shadow. Students are required to complete a project on leadership and management and compete for the IoD student of the year.
Shadow a senior manager for five days
Experience a realistic job application process including a panel interview by business professionals, while learning what qualities are required for leadership in any industry or profession (including medicine). This is a prestigious scheme which gives students the opportunity to shadow directors at the highest level.
How do I apply?
Submit your CV & covering letter (we will arrange workshops to help you complete these).
For more information email: d.midgley@gov.je
WORK SHADOWING MARKETING & DESIGN
Chartered Institute of Marketing (Yr 12, 13 & Undergraduate)
Experience a realistic job application process including a panel interview by marketing professionals and learn about working in the creative industries – marketing, design, PR and advertising.
How do I apply?
Submit an application form and enclose your CV. Bring along a portfolio of your work to your interview.
WORK SHADOWING
CONSTRUCTION & ENGINEERING
Jersey Construction Council (Yr 12 & 13)
Experience a realistic job application process including a panel interview by construction professionals and learn about working within construction professions in architecture, civil engineering, quantity surveying etc.
How do I apply?
Submit an application form and enclose your CV.
WORK SHADOWING HOSPITALITY
Jersey Hospitality Association (Yr 12 & 13)
Experience a realistic job application process including a panel interview by hospitality professionals and learn about working within the hospitality industry in areas such as hospitality management, event management, restaurant management, attractions etc
How do I apply?
Submit an application form and enclose your CV.
WORK SHADOWING DIGITAL
Digital Jersey (Yr 12 & 13)
Experience a realistic job application process including a panel interview by digital professionals and learn about working within the digital industry in analytics, network engineering, web development, e-commerce, software development etc.
How do I apply?
Submit an application form and enclose your CV.
OPPORTUNITIES IN
THE LEGAL PROFESSION
(Yr 12 & 13)
Ogier A-Level Legal This programme runs over 3 days during the October half-term and is aimed primarily Placement Programme at Year 12 students. It is designed to give students an insight into working at Ogier and a career in law.
During the programme students take part in a mock trial.' Each student has a role
to play and this gives experience working as a team and an understanding of how
the legal process works. Students also have an opportunity to hear from a variety of lawyers to gain an understanding of Ogier's approach, technologies and to show some of the different areas of law that the firm specialises in. Over the 3 days there will be opportunities to meet and hear about the experiences of some paralegals, current trainees or newly qualified Solicitors.
The programme is interactive and gives students a chance to experience working within a legal environment. Dress down is welcome (it is Ogier's company policy). As a result of the programme Ogier hopes to establish working relationships with students who might be interested in progressing onto the Bursary scheme and local Trainee Solicitor programme.
For more information contact Carla or Harriett at recruitment@ogier.com
(Yr 12 & 13)
The Baker & Partners The Baker & Partners Youth Advocacy Competition is an annual competition open to Youth Advocacy all sixth form students in Jersey. The aim is to provide those considering studying law
Competition at university or a legal career with an introduction to analytical & practical advocacy skills.
The competition gives participants the opportunity to act as prosecution and defence advocates in a variety of court scenarios, competing against other island
sixth formers. Baker & Partners provide briefing materials & guides to competitors before each round. The competitors are judged on their delivery, clarity, confidence, preparation and legal understanding.
For more information contact: louisemcnamee@bakerandpartners.com
OPPORTUNITIES IN FINANCE
(Yr 12)
ICAEW – BASE GameThe Institute Chartered Accountants in England and Wales (ICAEW) coordinate the
Business, Accountancy, Skills, Education game. Known as the BASE game.
BASE is an excellent opportunity for students to learn more about careers in business
& finance, adding depth to your CV and sharpening your interpersonal skills. Previously schools would enter a team of 6 students who would be presented with information about a business scenario. The challenge for students would be to assess, analyse, debate and present recommendations to a panel of judges. The regional winners of
the competition would then compete in the National finals.
The Base Game is now "online" running to a similar type of format, with the added advantage of allowing more opportunities for schools to enter more teams. There are now more prizes available for students, teachers and schools.
For more information and details of how to register, please see the below link: https://careers.icaew.com/en/campaigns/base-competition/the-evolution-of-base
(Yr 12 & 13)
Life in Finance - Life in Finance is Jersey Finance's annual work experience scheme for year 12 students Jersey Finance who are interested in the finance industry. It offers students either a one or two week
work placement within a member firm in order to gain an overview of the industry and acquire valuable knowledge and experience for the duration of the placement.
The scheme has proven beneficial in bringing A-Level students and finance professionals together, with this year's scheme seeing 39 students allocated work placements with 27 member firms and we are confident that this year's scheme will be just as successful.
If you would like to take part in Life in Finance, please contact Amari Hernandez at amari.hernandez@jerseyfinance.je.
OPPORTUNITIES IN POLITICAL DEBATING
(Yr 12 & 13)
Commonwealth Youth Parliament
The Commonwealth Youth Parliament (CYP) is held every year in a different Commonwealth country. One young person from Jersey is selected to attend every year. Applicants must be between the ages of 18 and 29; be a citizen of a Commonwealth country and ordinarily reside in Jersey; be confident and articulate enough to take an active role in debates and other proceedings in the Youth Parliament; have an interest
in the Commonwealth and political affairs and have a good knowledge of how Jersey is governed so that he or she can explain this to colleagues during the event.
More information can be found at: www.cpahq.org
(Yr 12 & 13)
Rotary Peace Programme
The Rotary Club of Jersey sponsors students to participate in the annual PeaceJam
Conference held at Winchester University over a weekend in March.
Rotary also provides opportunities to engage with other schools in the Rotary Student Peace Debate held in the States Chamber each autumn under the direction of the
Chief Minister. Students are also enabled to develop their skills in recording and live broadcasting on BBC Radio Jersey and to present their experiences to public audiences.
For more information email: tony@allchurch.je
INSIGHT DAYS: HEALTH
(Yr 11 &12)
Brighton & Sussex The BSMS Road Show provides advice and guidance focusing on medicine and Medical Road Show life as a medical student. Activities will include taster lectures on anatomy and
the human body, clinical skills, ethics, and more. Additional sessions will focus on the UCAS process along with useful tips for what is needed to submit a strong application for medicine. Sessions are led by the BSMS Admissions Tutor, assisted by current medical students. The road show takes place during the summer holiday.
There is a charge for this event.
(Yr 12)
Insight into Medicine Presentations include information on radiology, psychiatry, paediatrics and
general practice. Students will have the opportunity to visit hospital departments including accident and emergency, obstetrics, gynaecology and the physiotherapy department. Attendees also get to meet current medical students who they can discuss the profession with in more detail.
The 3 day Insight into Medicine course is an opportunity for students interested in a medical career to have a better understanding of what it is like to work within a multi-disciplinary team, and in general gain a better overview of the profession.
(Yr 12)
Insight into Nursing Insight into Nursing morning gives an overview of the nursing services on island,
there are also specific presentations which include the role of an A&E nurse, ITU nurse, theatre nurse, mental health nurse and student nurse. Skills required to become a nurse are explored including demonstrations.
(Yr 12)
Insight into Midwifery The midwifery insight day offers the opportunity to discover through interactive
sessions and lectures whether midwifery might be the right career choice for you by understanding what is means to be a midwife, gaining valuable information about the demands of the midwifery degree course and student life and how to prepare for the application process.
To register your interest in any of these opportunities please give your name to your Careers Teacher at school or college specifying which year you are in.
SCHEMES FOR
WORK EXPERIENCE
(Yr 12 & 13)
Health & Social Services Dept.
Health & Social Services offer a wide range of work experience placements for students wishing to follow a medical based careers. Students must be 17 years of age when they start their placement which will take place out of school term time.
To register your interest please give your name and details of the career pathway that you which to pursue to your Careers Teacher at school or college.
(Yr 12 & 13)
Insight into Teaching
Delivered by Brighton University these half day sessions cover both primary and secondary education. The Insight into Teaching day will cover everything you need to
know about the teaching profession. Students will gain up-to-date knowledge about current challenges and best practice within the teaching profession. Support is also given around making strong applications to university, specific advice on personal statements and interview tips. Information on what admissions tutors are looking for in candidates will also be covered.
For more information contact: skillsjersey@gov.je
UPCOMING
SKILLS JERSEY EVENTS
1 March
Higher Education Fair
This event gives you the opportunity to talk to exhibitors on over 60
stands; ranging from universities (from the UK, on-Island and overseas), training providers, gap-year specialists.
2 October
Jersey Skills Show
At the Jersey Skills Show, we aim to bring skills to life and give attendees the chance to learn about education, training and
opportunities in an engaging and
inspiring way.
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION
CONTACT US
skillsjersey@gov.je
01534 449 440 fb.com/skillsjersey
www.gov.je/ twitter.com/ skillsjersey skills_jersey
LIST OF
BURSARIES OFFERED
01 AGeologGGREy (GAonly fTE INDUSTRIor students who aES ttend Leicester University) | eddie.bailey@aggregate.com
02 ANDIUM HOMESAny area of study | bursary@andiumhomes.je
03 APPLEBYAny degree (must intend to return to Jersey to take up law) | ljames@applebyglobal.com
04 BEDELL CRISTINLaw | anna.ormsby@bedellcristin.com
05 CAMERONS LIMITEDConstruction | simon.silbernagl@camerons.je
06 CARELaw | Y OLSEN jessica.blampied@careyolsen.com
07 CLaOLLAS CRILLw | recruitment@collascrill.com
08 DEnAgineerVID MILLER SCHOLARSHIPing, geology, geo-technical engineering, metallurgy or mine planning | recruitment@consmin.com 09 DE LANCEMedical or laY AND DE LA HANTw | La Grande, Route de la Cote,Y FOUNDATION L St C TD (Blement ARON DE LANCE, JE2 6FT Y)
10 GEEngineerOMARINE AS/ing or geotechnicA-LEVEL BURSal | enquir ARYies@geomarine.je
11 GEEngineerOMARINE DEing or g GREE BURSeotechnical industrARYy | enquiries@geomarine.je
12 HOAgrWiculturARD De | AVIS F 01534 85ARM TR1953 UST
13 J(AMIOpen to SE ROBERt. Ouen rTS TResidents onlyUST ) | St Ouen's Parish Hall , St Ouen
14 JENNY CLARK MEMORIAL TRMusic | 5-7 La Motte Street, S USTt Helier
15 JERSENautic Y CLIPPER BURSal | philipjeune@gmail.cARYom
16 JERSEEconomic,Y COMPETITION RE accountancy, business studies or laGULATORY AUTHORITw | Y (JCRA) louise.read@cicra.je
17 JERSEEngineerY ELEing, CTRICIT preferably electrY ical, but mechanical also considered | humanresources@jec.co.uk
18 JTScience, technology, engineering and maths | careers@jtglobal.com
19 JERSEEngineerY Win Ag, TER wa ter r| cheresouryl.kac yes,e@jers manageyement & cwater.je onservation, environmental sciences, chemistry
20 JOHN LMusic | OBB TR 10 Bel R USToyal Gardens, La Route de St Aubin, St Lawrence, JE3 1JU
21 MORRIS BURSScience subject ( ARma Ythematics, physics, chemistry, biology & engineering) | group@biopharmaspec.com 22 MOURANT OZANNESLaw |students@mourantozannes.com
23 OGILawER | carla.jost@ogier.com
24 PERDURANCE PHILANTHROPY BURSAny area of study | info@perdurance.or ARg Y SCHEME
25 PORMerchant NaTS OF JERSEvy OfficYer Cadetship
26 ROAgrYiculturAL JERSEe | R Y Aoy GRICULal Jerse TURE & HORy Showground, TICUL La R TURE SOCIoute de Trinité, ETY TR Tr UST FUNDinity, JE3 5JP
27 THE AFine ar VERIL PICt or architecturOT TRUST SCHOLARSHIP AND THE Be | info@societe-jersiaise.org ARREAU ART SCHOLARSHIP 28 THE JERSEAccountancy Y SOCI | secr ETetar Y OF CHARy@jscca.or TERED AND CERg TIFIED ACCOUNTANTS
29 THE LArmed fORD PORorces and civil sTSEA GIFT FUNDervices | studentfinance@gov.je
30 THE OLIVE BROPerforming arts WN BURS | tom@ar ARts.je Y
31 THE PMusic AUL BRO | rodmcljersWN MEMORIAL FUNDey@gmail.com
32 VLaOISIN LAw | emmaWstewart@voisinlaw.com
For the most up to date list of bursaries visit: www.gov.je/studentbursaries
