I worked in consumer dispute resolution for seven years before joining the Ombudsman. Coming here meant taking on the challenge of applying my skills to new areas of public services, while continuing the type of casework I enjoyed that helped to put things right for people.

I started here as an Investigator and once I got to grips with the role, I found I had lots of opportunities to develop professionally. I helped produce guidance for our investigators to follow on casework and developed good practice for organisations we investigate. I created and delivered training programmes and worked with groups on data security, equality and diversity, and specialist subject areas.

I was supported and encouraged to do an apprenticeship in management, which gave me the skills I needed to successfully apply for a management role.

I now work as an Assessment Manager, leading a team who make decisions in the Assessment phase of our service. This is where we decide whether we can and should carry out investigations in more detail, and we aim to give people a decision as soon as possible.

I still get involved in lots of other areas of work, including delivering training, leading one of our subject forums (our groups of investigators who share insight in the main subject areas we look at) and helping new starters through our induction programme.

The pace and variety of the work stretches you, but we have comprehensive training, guidance and support, so you never feel out of your depth.

Aside from the opportunities here, it is the people that make it a great place to work. We have a really collaborative and collegiate work environment. Everyone is keen to help each other and it’s easy to speak to people at any level. I would encourage anyone to apply for a job here. You have the chance to make a real contribution to improving public services in a supportive and positive workplace.