What attracted you to HDC?
I joined the Planning Department (Development Management) full time in 2016. My mum had worked in the Planning Department for about 10 years prior, and I had attended to do some work experience. When a position became available, I applied straight away because if my mum had enjoyed her time working for the council then I knew I would enjoy working there as well and I'd really enjoyed my time on work experience at HDC. I also found the perks like flexible working and gym membership reduced rates to be attractive options.
What do you value most about working here?
I value the team I am in very highly. We always make sure we have time for each other if we need help and we all are very respectful towards each other, which makes it a pleasant working environment and is so important to enable productive working. Working at HDC there are a lot of things to value like teamwork and the staff benefits, but the thing I value the very most is the flexible working. I can have a little bit of flexibility in my days to assist me with childcare, which is hard to juggle. Some days I can start an hour later or earlier and finish when needed to do nursery pickups. If my work is done, I have given my manager notice and do my contracted weekly hours, there is never a problem with this. Also, being able to build up flexi time to allow me to have an additional day off here and there is really welcomed.
What keeps you here?
As above, the flexible working is handy for me where I am at in my life currently. I have a child in nursery who will be starting school in September 2024, so being able to juggle that with working can be tricky some days, so it is great to not have to stress about working set hours. The team I am in is also a big reason for me staying here at HDC. Some of us have been working together for 5 years or so and we have created some lovely friendships. We work well as a team and I enjoy welcoming new people into our team and watching everyone grow and change. Throwing new ideas in and having healthy discussions on how things can be done differently.
What advice would you give to others who are considering a career at HDC?
Go for it! There are many big organisations out there where you would get lost in the number of employees there, but at HDC you will be valued for the positives you bring. Your teams can nominate you for awards where you are recognised for what you do. There is an abundance of opportunities for development and growth, not to mention the invaluable support available with the in-house Mental Health First Aiders Team. There is no end to what you can achieve so go for it and good luck!