Alex’s story
Human Resources
Meet Alex. As a Human Resources Assistant, he plays an important role in the Chief Executive’s directorate. Working with different teams on different projects keeps things fresh for Alex, as well as giving him the freedom to continue with his university studies. Find out what’s been his most enjoyable challenge so far – and why.
I initially came to Barnsley Council on a 12 month contract, and they’ve helped me develop myself professionally and academically by letting me get involved with as many different projects as possible.
I’ve been lucky enough to be kept on full-time at the council now, which has enabled me to continue with my university studies.
I found the selection process very timely and efficient. On my first day I was introduced to each member of my team, and they told me in turn what projects they were involved with. Advice for anybody coming to the council would be not to be daunted by the title or name of the interviewer.
The best thing about my role is the variety of work I do. I work with a number of different teams on a number of different projects, which always keeps my work interesting.
I think living and working in Barnsley at the moment is a very exciting time. There are a number of different projects going on. There’s a new feel to Barnsley at the moment.
Transport links with Barnsley are very good, with the motorway just being up the road, and easy access on trains to major cities like London. I also think that driving around in Barnsley is much easier than the larger cities like Sheffield and Leeds.
The most enjoyable project that I’ve been involved with at Barnsley Council so far is when I was involved with the Workforce Improvement Challenge, run by the IDeA (Improvement and Development Agency) and incorporated the Investors in People. This was good, because I was able to link so much of my university knowledge to work.
Within my department there is an open door policy, and no matter how busy anybody is they always have time for advice and guidance. Everyone gets on well within my team, and there is a great atmosphere and a culture around the team and service.
A normal day for me would mean organising and dealing with a number of different training courses and attending a number of meetings. I also deal with the upkeep of the Human Resources intranet.
I would recommend working at Barnsley Council to a friend, as my team has always been supportive, and I hear stories about the rest of the council being the same.
There are a number of flexible working options and the pay is very competitive.
