Poppy Aston
BA English and History, University of York
Why I applied
I applied for this scheme as I wanted to be part of a world-leading organisation that makes a real difference; the University of Birmingham felt like the right fit. I had a keen interest in the higher education sector and the wider role that the University played locally, nationally and internationally. I also felt it was a unique opportunity to gain a breadth of generalist skills, and the ideal place to start my journey in a dynamic and stimulating career in management and leadership.
Highlights
My favourite thing about the scheme is the exposure to different departments across the University. I have enjoyed being pushed outside my comfort zone with a breadth of varied and challenging placements that have allowed me to excel in areas I was initially daunted by.
I have taken ownership of projects, worked closely with senior staff, and developed high-level leadership skills, all whilst being supported to succeed every step of the way.
Advice
My advice to anyone joining the scheme would be to:
Build connections; staff and students are at the heart of what we do at the University and our experience is made all the richer by those you connect with. I have enjoyed working with a variety of teams, building relationships and learning from others.
Remember leadership is at all levels; I have been entrusted to project manage and lead on multiple strategically important projects at the University. These experiences have grown my confidence and taught me it does not require years of experience or detailed technical knowledge to effect meaningful change and positively influence others.
Embrace challenges; the most rewarding and interesting projects have been those that I’ve previously known little about. Never underestimate the power you can have by coming in with a positive mindset, asking questions and offering a fresh, ‘outsider’ perspective.
Placements
Development & Alumni Relations (DARO) & Careers Network
Development & Alumni Relations (DARO) & Careers Network
I led on the creation, implementation and evaluation of a new marketing and support campaign targeted at UoB graduates and helped to develop the University’s new Employability Strategy.
External Relations – Public Engagement
External Relations – Public Engagement
Worked with externals on the exhibition design for the Exchange and delivered a new Public Engagement House Style Guide. Led on a marketing review and the formulation a University Collections’ Visitor Leaflet and Impact Report designed to better coordinate our on-campus collections for public audiences.
IT Services – IT Business Partnering
IT Services – IT Business Partnering
Worked closely between IT Services and across different areas of the University to project manage and automate numerous large processes, as part of the wider Digital Strategy and efficiency saving goals.
Current: Executive Support Division – Executive Office
Current: Executive Support Division – Executive Office
Currently supporting the Pro-Vice-Chancellor (International) on managing priority projects under the Civic and Global strand of the Strategic Framework. Leading on Executive Office projects sponsored by the Vice-Chancellor, and Registrar and Secretary; including the Vice-Chancellor’s Challenge, Birmingham Professional digital redesign and various cross-divisional initiatives. Additional responsibilities include Panel Secretary for a Vice Chancellor’s Integrated Review.