DfT: Commercial Development Programme - Interview with Victoria

We spoke with Victoria - member of the Department for Transport’s Commercial Development Programme.

Victoria studied Geography at the University of Exeter and worked for a private sector company specialising in land and property data before joining the CDP in 2016.

Why did you decide to apply for the Commercial Development Programme?

I sort of fell into the world of commercial in my previous role and decided it was an area I wanted to continue to develop in. Previously I was working in quite a niche market and wanted to broaden my experience and so the Commercial Development Programme seemed like the perfect opportunity to do this. I was also attracted to the opportunity to work on some big high profile infrastructure projects!

What did your first placement involve?

My first placement was in the Airport Capacity Directorate in the International, Security and Environment Group. My role was primarily focused on procuring a variety of advisers that the Airport Capacity programme needed but I also did quite a lot of work helping the Department to build and develop their relationship with Heathrow. It was a really interesting role (who knew airports were so complex!) and exciting to be part of the project at such a key time.

Where will your second placement be?

My next placement will be in Passenger Services in Rail Group. This directorate is responsible for setting the policy direction of the franchises that we procure, and ensuring government policy is properly implemented in our rail franchises. The directorate is very much at the heart of deciding what we buy, ensuring that the commercial proposition on offer to rail franchise bidders is attractive to them whilst delivering value for money for the tax payer and a high quality service for the passenger.

What do you enjoy the most about working for the Department for Transport?

There is always so much going on. I think it is possible to maintain a full-time role in just attending all the different talks/events that different parts of the Department and Staff Networks put on! Everyone I have met is passionate about sharing their experiences and learning new things to help them in their current roles.

If you’re interested in the Commercial Development Programme, you can find out more here.

Are you interested in a career at Department for Transport? Please click here.

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