Harry, Graduate Project Officer

In 2022, I embarked on an exciting journey with the Suffolk Partnership Graduate Scheme, following the completion of my master’s in international development at the University of East Anglia. Drawn by the opportunity to make a positive impact in my local community and gain valuable workplace experience, I joined the scheme with an open mind about my career path. Over the course of two years, this program has not only provided me with invaluable insights but has also helped shape my professional aspirations.

As a Graduate Project Officer, I had the privilege of undertaking two diverse placements. My first year was spent with West Suffolk Council's Policy, Projects and Performance Team, where I assisted in delivering impactful projects for the local community. Notable projects included the Western Way development, the UK Shared Prosperity fund, and the creation of a project management eLearning module. I also gained experience in reporting project statuses to the senior leadership team.

My second year took me to Suffolk Fire and Rescue Service as a Project Support Officer. Here, I played a crucial role in the new control room project, which involved transitioning SFRS from a joint fire control agreement to a Suffolk-only control room. My responsibilities ranged from general project support and documentation to stakeholder engagement, risk management, and high-level budget tracking.

Throughout the program, I've had the opportunity to enhance my skills and knowledge significantly. I'm proud to have achieved both the Associate for Project Management Project Management Qualification (APM PMQ Level 7) and the Level 4 Associate Project Manager Apprenticeship. This combination of theoretical learning and hands-on experience has equipped me with a comprehensive understanding of key project management areas.

One of the most rewarding aspects of this journey has been the connections I've made. The friendships and professional networks I've built with fellow graduates have been invaluable, and I'm excited about the prospect of continuing my career in local government.

Reflecting on my time in the Suffolk Partnership Graduate Scheme, I'm immensely grateful for the opportunities I've been given. The experience has been truly transformative, both personally and professionally. I wholeheartedly recommend this program to any graduate looking to kickstart their career in a meaningful and impactful way. It's been an incredible journey of growth, learning, and discovery, setting a strong foundation for my future in public service.