Simon, Operations Manager - Department of Sociological Studies

Who are you, and what is your job title?

I’m Simon, and I’m Operations Manager in the Department of Sociological Studies.

How long have you worked at the University?

I’ve worked at the University for just over ten years. Before that I was a student here for three years.

What does your job involve?

I oversee the Operations team in the department, looking after health and safety, a bit of Finance, HR, governance and policy.

What other jobs have you done at the University?

Before this role I was a Senior Administrative Officer in the Department for Lifelong Learning, looking after learning and teaching administration. Before that I worked at the Student Services Information Desk, and before that, my first job at the University was as International Student Support Officer.

Why do you think the University is a remarkable place to work?

The University is a remarkable place to work for so many reasons. It's enormous. There’s so much opportunity to move around to different roles. It’s an exciting place with all the research going on and there’s such a variety of departments. I’ve made so many friends working here from different jobs I’ve done and I have friends around the University now.

How would you describe the working culture at the University?

It's a really supportive working culture at the University. Every manager I’ve had has been really keen on helping me to develop and there are so many opportunities to get involved in training, mentoring and that kind of thing. There are also loads of perks, you can get cheap cinema tickets, you can get discounts on all sorts of things.

What opportunities has working at the University provided you with?

I’ve been to various different conferences all around the country, all expenses paid! There are mentoring schemes, and partnerships and buddying schemes to help with professional development.

What skills/experience from your time as a student at the UoS were key to you getting your role/useful in your current role?

While I was a student, I took the opportunity to work part time at the Students’ Union which really helped me to understand what it’s like working in Higher Education and gave me a good first step into the University. I think that doing any degree at the University gives you a load of transferable skills.

What would you say to current students who are considering the University as a place to work?

If you’re considering working at the University, go for it! It’s a really great employer and there’s so much scope for a huge variety of roles.

Why did you decide to stay in Sheffield?

I was lucky enough to meet my wife whilst studying at Sheffield. We were settled in Sheffield, it's a great city. There was no reason to even think about leaving, it’s great.