I previously worked in the voluntary sector for over 10 years and joined Audit Scotland
in June 2007. People may assume that Audit Scotland is all about accounts and accounting.
However, I was attracted to the opportunity to work for an organisation that made
a difference in the public sector and I liked the idea that Audit Scotland is not
only about holding to account but also about helping to improve. The work of BVSI
is part of a coordinated approach, working with the other inspection agencies to
deliver scrutiny across the public sector in Scotland.
The role of Project officer is continuing to develop as the organisation develops
but for me the key is the opportunity to be actively involved in different teams
and work closely with a number of colleagues, as well as being able to contribute
from day one. As well as supporting colleagues on each audit, I have had the opportunity
to take responsibility for specific areas within audits and I have been well supported
to take on the variety of work. I enjoy the feeling of being a valuable member of
the team.
My role is a varied one and therefore a typical day may include a number of different
activities. The work varies depending on where you are in the life of the different
audits or projects that you are involved in and depending on whether you take part
in onsite work at local authorities. The typical areas of work include office-based
work such as research, data analysis, surveys, consultations, report writing, meetings,
administration, minute taking, training. The onsite based work includes interviews,
focus groups and observing meetings.
The challenge is to be flexible and approachable. Sometimes you work on a variety
of audits at the same time, other times you work on one specific project over a
longer period. Working as a Project officer requires a commitment to working closely
with your colleagues and not being afraid to get involved.
Audit Scotland is a friendly place to work and right from the start I was welcomed
and given the opportunity to get involved. Everyone has been supportive and taken
the time to provide me with help when I needed it.