Tell us a bit about you?
I’m Carol. I’m an Analytical Unit Head working in health and social care.
I’m a mum of two boys. I enjoy going for walks, listening to podcasts, pottering in my garden and word games (I’ve got Wordle in one, twice).
———
Did you study after leaving school?
I went to university to study French and Linguistics because I loved languages at school. But I soon realised that wasn’t for me and switched to social sciences. I did a degree in sociology and then later did a Master’s in social research methods.
———
What and where was your first significant job?
After graduating, I found it hard to get work relating to my degree. After a spell of temporary admin jobs, I went back to university to do a more practical Master’s in social research methods and then did an internship at the European Commission.
My first significant research job was at Action on Smoking and Health Scotland, where I developed a dataset for stop-smoking services and synthesised evidence in support of the ban on smoking in public places. I learned loads about applied research and policy-making.
———
When did you join the Scottish Government and what was the role?
I joined the Scottish Government in 2007, just a couple of weeks after an election. My first role was as a Senior Research Officer in transport.
Initially, I wondered why I’d been placed in transport when my background was in health. But I came to appreciate that I could use my research skills to contribute to issues that mattered to me, whether that was improving public services, tackling inequalities or supporting more sustainable outcomes.
The specific topic was less important than the chance to make a positive impact through evidence and analysis.
———
What first attracted you to working at government or in the public sector?
What first attracted me to the public sector was the opportunity to put my research skills to work on real-world issues.
After finishing my Master’s, I realised that although I enjoyed the research process, I was more interested in applying evidence and analysis to practical challenges than pursuing an academic career.
Alongside that, the Civil Service appealed to me on a personal level. It offered the chance to do meaningful work that benefits the public, while also providing excellent opportunities for development and a range of benefits that support a rewarding career.
———
What does a typical day look like for you?
Most days involve a lot of meetings, conversations and correspondence. As an Analytical Unit Head, my time is split between strategic leadership, team management and problem-solving.
That could mean thinking about the team’s priorities, keeping up to date with developments in the policy landscape and analytical profession, supporting colleagues, or helping to unblock a challenging piece of work.
The main part of my role is working with colleagues to make sure the team is focused on the right priorities and that we’re providing the analytical insights and advice needed to support decision-making.
———
What do you like most about your current job?
There are three things I particularly enjoy about my job. First, the people. I work with brilliant colleagues who are talented, supportive and great to be around, which makes a real difference day to day.
Second, I’m constantly learning. Whether it’s understanding more about social care or keeping up with developments in analytical methods there’s always something new to learn.
Finally, I really value the work-life balance. Flexi-time, supportive managers, and an organisational culture that recognises people have commitments outside of work all help to make my job rewarding and sustainable.
———
What is your working pattern?
I work part time, 30 hours a week, with half days on a Monday and Thursday. I have school-aged kids, and this pattern really helps with family life. I enjoy working on a Friday, as there tend to be fewer meetings and emails, so I’m often quite productive before the weekend!
———
Have you used any employee benefits whilst working at Scottish Government?
Yes, I’ve had two periods of generous maternity leave and used childcare vouchers to help with nursery fees. I’ve also bought a bike through the Cycle to Work Scheme.
———
What career advice would you give your younger self?
It’s okay not to have a grand career plan. Looking back, some of the most rewarding opportunities came along unexpectedly and took me in directions I hadn’t anticipated. What’s more important is staying focused on what interests and motivates you. That will help you stay resilient when things get challenging and make it easier to recognise the opportunities that are right for you when they come along.