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Editorial - Birmingham City Council
Birmingham Graduate Development
Programme
Name:
Margit
Current Role:
Implementation Officer, Excellence in People
Management
University:
Brunel University
Degree:
American Studies, BA (Hons), majoring in
Politics and Sociology
When did you start the BGDP?
I started the programme in April 2007, when
the scheme was first established
Why did you choose Birmingham City
Council?
I originally moved to Birmingham temporarily
after University for six months but I loved
the city so much that I have stayed and have
now been here for five years. I have interest
in politics and community issues and I felt
that the city of Birmingham provided great
opportunities for me to get involved and make
a difference to the area in which I live. In
addition, I discovered that local government
offered me very good employee benefits
with plenty of opportunity for personal
development.
What has been your experience of the
BGDP?
It has been really positive! It has been a great
way to sample various areas of such a large
organisation. The BGDP has certainly helped
me with my career progression and I have
been able to ‘fast track' to positions which
would otherwise be out of reach.
What placements have you had?
I have completed several challenging
placements in the Policy and Performance
department, Cabinet Office, and BEST- our
corporate values and employee engagement
programme. They have all been very different
experiences and have challenged me in
different ways. All of my placements have
given me the opportunity to have exposure to
senior officers and politicians.
What development opportunities have you
had on the BGDP?
I have had the change to study for a Diploma
and MSc at the University of Birmingham
as well as various training opportunities
including project management and
recruitment and selection courses. I have
taken part in a development centre similar
to an assessment centre, to further develop
my skills, which was coupled with coaching
sessions and the opportunity to have a senior
manager as a mentor. In addition, I have taken
part in Young Local Authority of the Year, a
prestigious national competition.
What is the best thing about BCC and the
BGDP?
The best thing is the opportunities for
development and networking. The size of the
organisation means it can be complex and
layered, with many different