Welsh Government Early Careers: Szy

Back in 2006, I started a new chapter in my career journey by joining Welsh Government. I moved from my role as a manager in a residential care home for young adults with disabilities. I was looking for stability and found an unexpected path in public service. Initially drawn to a specific job in agriculture, I ended up taking a part-time position with Care Inspectorate Wales (CIW) which started my Welsh Government career.

My journey with the organisation began in Aberystwyth, a starting point that eventually led me to Cardiff in 2018. With my current team spread across Cardiff, Swansea, and Merthyr Tydfil, I've experienced the diversity of Wales firsthand, both in roles and locations.

Starting as a Team Support in CIW, my job included arranging interviews for care service providers, managing data, and engaging with stakeholders. I moved around through various positions, from IT support to policy development. Undertaking an internal NVQ Level 4 apprenticeship to secure a promotion opened doors to new opportunities for me and I’m now the Governance and Business Manager for Nation of Sanctuary, focusing on migration and support for sanctuary seekers, particularly Ukrainians. It's a role that resonates with my passion for making a tangible difference in people's lives.

Why Welsh Government? The flexible working conditions and the wide range of roles available are great, but the main reason I love working here is having the opportunity to contribute to meaningful change, whether that’s through IT support, policy development or direct service to the community. 

One of the most rewarding moments of my career was the work I did on housing grants, which helped over 1,000 households, including Ukrainian sanctuary seekers, transition from the streets to suitable accommodation. 

If you’re considering a career with Welsh Government, then my advice is simple: give it a try. The organisation is far more diverse than I ever expected, offering plenty of opportunity for personal and professional growth – with the hybrid working arrangement too, there’s no restriction on where you live as long as you can access the internet from home. It’s a supportive environment with a culture that fosters confidence and development. Welsh Government provides a safe and inclusive space with supportive networks to help you explore and find your niche. Your career can change and develop with you as your values, passions and interests change over time and the organisation definitely supports that.