You’ve worked as a test analyst in other companies, what differences have you seen?
In terms of the role it’s virtually the same thing but one of the really good things about working here is that they’re interested in my personal development.
What kind of development?
Well, in the two and a half years that I’ve been with StepChange Debt Charity I’ve completed the foundation and intermediate levels of the ISEB Certificate in Software Testing. They put me on the course just three months after I started here. It made me feel welcome because it showed that they wanted to invest in my skills. I’ll be going on the practitioner level course too.
What’s the department that you work in like?
It’s a relatively young department, and we’re all very sociable. We’re out together most pay days. The department’s grown a lot since I first arrived because the charity has so many innovative ideas! We’re really forward thinking and that’s exciting. We strive to make the way we help people more efficient by utilising technology and offering new services. Better still, we invest in the technology needed to achieve our ideas and we’re leading our industry because of it.
It sounds like a lot of work!
It is but it’s interesting and it’s a vibrant place to work. They appreciate the work-life balance here more than in other places I’ve worked. I work a 35 hour week and I’m asked to work overtime if it’s needed, instead of being expected to.
What’s next for you?
I’m not sure yet. I could move sideways within Systems or there’s plenty of opportunity for promotion.
What’s the best thing about working here?
Ultimately, it’s great to know that I’m working for a charity whose key values underline the whole organisation. It’s instilled in me that, although I’m not in direct contact with clients, I’m still helping people. You don’t get that working for a commercial business. There you could work your socks off and ultimately you’re just making other people a load of money! It’s the other way round here.
Could anyone work here?
If you share the values we do, of wanting to help people, then you’ll fit in perfectly!
