Hannah tells us about their role as a Senior Crime and Data Analyst with an Garda Síochána and how a midlife career change has helped them realise their potential.
Please tell us a little bit about your role.
Part of my role involves working closely with the investigation team, analysing data from various sources, such as phone extractions, call data records, and financial records, to identify lines of enquiry for the team to investigate. I use visual software and data analysis tools to provide intelligence products that explain complex cases in easy to understand visuals for the end user. I am a line manager to a new analyst, where I provide guidance on analysis and mentorship as they settle into their new role in the Garda Siochána Analysis Service.
What were your reasons for applying for your role?
When I joined AGS I attended a seminar held by GSAS and I was really interested in their work, the analyst explained that the Service, was made up from many individuals from a variety of career paths. This encouraged to me think about how I could apply my previous academic experience and career as a designer and business development officer into an analytical role. I always enjoyed analytical work, problem solving, and transforming information into deliverable products and strategies. The job specification was really appealing, this motivated my application, so I could formally develop my career as an analyst.
What do you value most about your job?
I appreciate the autonomy and variety in my role, as an analyst you can work independently or with a small team with changing priorities. You also have a network of analysts you can draw support from. Whilst we have our own analytical tasking to complete, we are also encouraged to contribute to the development of the service as it expands.
What are some of the benefits and supports available to you?
Within AGS there are excellent employee welfare resources that staff have access to online and in person, which are important for health and well-being. HR policies encompass family friendly initiatives, menopause policy, diversity and equality initiative are forward thinking and supportive of employee’s needs.
What opportunities has this role provided for you?
There are excellent training, further education and continuing professional development opportunities in GSAS and the Civil Service. The salary grade of HEO has also allowed me to pursue my ambitious sports interests outside of work.
What has surprised you since starting this role?
I’m surprised how successful this midlife career change has been for me and how I have adapted and grown into this role when I didn’t come from a data science background.
What aspect of the role do you particularly enjoy?
I really appreciate the diversity of tasks which I am asked to carry out as an AO, on a range of different issues. My role ensures that I am not simply performing the same tasks on the same subject, hence I am able to remain highly-engaged with my work.
Would you recommend a career in the public sector and why?
I enjoy my line manager role, and being able to offer support to new entrants into the Analyst Service and An Garda Siochána. I enjoy taking on the challenges of investigation work and knowing it makes a difference to society.