Sinead tells us about their role as a Senior Crime and Data Analyst with an Garda Síochána and how the people aspect of the job can't be underestimated.
Please tell us a little bit about your role.
As an analyst for the Dublin Metropolitan Region (DMR), I fulfil a two pronged role; one of which being the reporting and provision of data in relation to crime in the DMR for internal and external stakeholders with the aim aiding proactive policing; and the other being that of working with Garda Members to assist in active and varied investigations.
What were your reasons for applying for your role?
I applied for the role of Senior Crime and Data Analyst when, after enjoying 3 years of working in An Garda Síochána, I wanted a new challenge in a role that was more aligned with my skillset while also expanding it with more opportunity to try new things or develop those skills that I have only had limited chance to hone.
What do you value most about your job?
I value the variety that my job entails and the purpose that it provides. Working on different cases and examining data related to crime in the DMR on a daily, weekly, and monthly basis allows me to get a richer understanding of the world around me and offers a sense that I am working toward a common good.
What are some of the benefits and supports available to you?
As part of the wider civil service, flexible working arrangements and job security are two things I appreciate and utilise in aiding toward a positive work-life balance. Within An Garda Síochána’s Analysis Service and the organisation as a whole, the people aspect is something that I do not take for granted. I not only mean the supports offered on a personnel level, but I find so much gratitude in the day-to-day support of working with people who are always happy to help and offering that in return.
What opportunities has this role provided for you?
Expanding my skillset is an immeasurable opportunity provided to me through my work at GSAS. Having a supportive management team and peer network has given me breadth to find comfort in more complex environments; in dealing with and presenting to stakeholders at the most senior levels; managing more varied, changeable, and sensitive projects requiring the highest levels of adaptability and agility.
What has surprised you since starting this role?
Again, to touch on the people aspect of my role in GSAS, the willingness of both those in the analysis service and the members I work alongside to help you figure out your path to success whether that be in dealing with priority, time-sensitive requests or in day-to-day, routine scenarios.
What aspect of the role do you particularly enjoy?
I enjoy getting the opportunity to work with so many different people who work in so many different ways. The amount of people I interact with during the course of my role is vast, inevitably encompassing varied communication styles, personalities, and interactions, all of which bring a sense of personality to the role.
Would you recommend a career in the public sector and why?
Looking back on my time in the civil service, and in particular in An Garda Síochána, since 2019, although, like many jobs, there are days that are slow and full to the brim with hard work, the ratio of interesting days with so much going on in my environment has been much higher. In An Garda Síochána, at a time when the organisation is going through a period of huge structural change, there is always something new to learn; a lot of people from whom to gain a fresh perspective; and new opportunities arising.