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How working at Defra changed my life

jvandeban

Updated: Mar 14, 2024



When I worked at Birkbeck, University of London, one of our marketing straplines was that 'Birkbeck changed my life'. Because I worked there so long (18 years) and did so many things apart from work (completing 2 master's degrees; starting the women's network; acted as branch chair of Birkbeck Unison for 16 years), I knew that this strapline applied to me.


But I honestly felt that I wouldn't be able to say that of anywhere else, because I thought you had to spend a long time in places in order to earn it. So imagine my surprise when - after a mere 6 months - I now feel that I can say the same for Defra.


How I got to Defra

2023 was a big year for me. 

 

After decades of working full-time – first at Birkbeck, University of London, then the Government Digital Service (GDS) - I took the decision to work for myself, as a contractor. So I quit my job at GDS in March 2023.


And then I started my new life - with my first-ever career break over the summer. I've never had one of these, though I know so many people who have. I wish I'd done it years ago - but I also feel that I definitely made up for lost time with an absolutely joyous summer of meeting friends, catching up with family and making things.

 

But in September, Defra offered me an interesting opportunity to:


  • help kickstart an ambitious new content programme for Defra Trade as a senior content designer on the Digital Guidance for Industry team

  • informally mentor/coach a lead content designer


What I did as an SCD

As an SCD, I was responsible for helping to improve the user journey for importers who now have to comply with the government's Border Target Operating Model. And, having been in the leadership and strategy space for some years, it was a useful reminder that I can still 'do the do' - at least when it comes to content design.


What I learned

But my big revelation - and the reason I am now saying that Defra has changed my life - was the coaching and mentoring aspect of my work. I got to work closely with a relatively new lead content designer, who is amazing and has brilliant ideas and is going to do great stuff. And watching her take hold of the project she has chosen to lead, and to feel that I was part of the support that helped to make that happen was a thrill.


So I made a big decision. From now on, I want to enable people to meet their potential, to get hold of their careers, to take big decisions and be who they were meant to be.


So I’m taking another career break – but this time to:

  1. undertake a formal coaching qualification

  2. develop a course for content designers who want to be better at their jobs

  3. get back to blogging – because after working in content for the whole of my career, it turns out I have a lot to say!


I’m buzzing with ideas, and excited about what the future holds. And I can’t wait to get started. 


  • Want to work with me in future? Get in touch: jane@roxboro-design.co.uk.

  • If you are a recruitment agency looking for contractors, I’m happy to direct you to colleagues looking for opportunities. But for now, I’m pressing the pause button on contract work.

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Testimonials

"Having Jane as my coach has been the perfect rocket fuel for my continuous learning and development...She's become one of my trusted people to help me find my own answers and build clear goals...I've regained my courage...and generally become more confident...Jane is just so incredibly suited to developing others. She's thoughtful and kind. She makes me feel comfortable and safe, and someone who I'm hugely enjoying working with to discover more about myself as I grow. I can't wait to see what our next few months will open up." Leyla, Lead Content Designer
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"I recently had a significant birthday and it made me realise I wasn't where I wanted to be. I knew I wanted something different, but wasn't sure where to start. Talking to Jane helped me figure out what was important to me. And she helped me break it all down into manageable steps - I feel much more in control of where I'm going and what I need to do." Katie, Administrator
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"Jane’s relaxed and approachable style put me at ease right from the start of our coaching sessions. Speaking to Jane not only helped me to look at things from a different perspective but also forced me to take a proper look at my life goals and things that are important to me. She encouraged me to stop procrastinating, take control and make the best choices for me...I feel like I’ve got my mojo back. If you’re feeling stuck in a rut and need someone to guide you back on your path I’d recommend talking to Jane." Maxine, Senior Content Designer
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"I loved my training session with Jane. She made me see that stakeholders are people too - and that I don't need to be scared of them. I now have a communications plan and strategy in place, and I'm genuinely excited about getting academics on board." Pauline, Content Designer

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