Ad's Journey
With a degree in Business and Management, Ad was attracted to the Fast Stream’s accelerated development and breadth of experience.
While valuing the early exposure and learning, Ad identified a preference for stability and deeper specialism in operational delivery and business management.
Ad is strongly committed to continuous learning and has completed the ODP learning curriculum alongside a Level 6 CMI Leadership and Management qualification. They are motivated by improving organisational efficiency and supporting others’ career development.
Role 1:
ODP Fast Streamer, Operational Support
Business Management and Operational Support – Operational Support
Found out more about DWP: Department for Work and Pensions - GOV.UK.
Ad’s first 12-month Fast Stream placement provided a strong introduction to operational and strategic business management. Working at HEO level, Ad developed a clear understanding of how resource planning, performance reporting, and governance support frontline service delivery.
Ad led a small team as part of the scheme, building people management capability and confidence. Through cross-team working, analysis, and involvement in delivery projects, Ad contributed insight to improve processes and decision-making. Regular interaction with senior leaders strengthened Ad’s stakeholder engagement skills and understanding of how strategic priorities translate into day-to-day operations.
Alongside role responsibilities, Ad began the ODP Level 6 CMI Leadership and Management qualification, engaged in structured feedback, and shadowed senior leaders.
For personal reasons, Ad decided to leave the Fast Stream and successfully secured a permanent HEO role within DWP.
Role 2:
Operational Delivery Manager
Help, Advice, Support and Service Delivery – Front Line Service Delivery
Found out more about DWP: Department for Work and Pensions - GOV.UK.
In this role, Ad led a frontline service area delivering help, advice, and support to the public. Ad completed DWP technical training and continued advanced operational delivery learning, alongside leadership seminars focused on customer impact and service excellence.
Initially stretched by the scale of responsibility, Ad built confidence through peer support, Fast Stream networks, and active engagement with leadership development opportunities. Ad became a strong advocate for continuous improvement, testing new approaches to service delivery and using data to refine processes. Through inclusive and empathetic leadership, Ad developed a reputation for innovation and results-focused delivery.
For the Core Skills and skill level required for this role, visit: ODP Professional Skills Framework - Operational Delivery Profession.
Role 3 :
Business Management
Business Management and Operational Support – Business Management
Found out more about HMRC: HM Revenue & Customs - GOV.UK.
Ad moved to HMRC as an SEO, taking on a strategic business management role within the ODP Learning and Apprenticeships team. Ad led a team responsible for governance, assurance, and quality across learning and apprenticeship programmes, ensuring alignment with departmental priorities and professional standards.
The role expanded Ad’s strategic influence, involving oversight of risk, compliance, performance reporting, and engagement with governance boards. Ad completed advanced project management training and led improvement initiatives that strengthened capability delivery and supported HMRC’s wider transformation agenda. Ad was recognised for structured, outcomes-focused leadership and strong stakeholder relationships.
For the Core Skills and skill level required for this role, visit: ODP Professional Skills Framework - Operational Delivery Profession.
Role 4:
Operational Delivery Lead
Leadership & Management - Operations Leader
Found out more about HMRC: HM Revenue & Customs - GOV.UK.
Now operating at Grade 7 level, Ad leads business management activity at the heart of HMRC Operations. Ad is responsible for operational governance, resource planning, and performance oversight, supporting operational leaders to deliver high-quality public services.
Drawing on experience across operational delivery, business support, and project delivery, Ad strengthens risk management, assurance, and decision-making processes. They lead small-scale operational improvement projects, contribute to workforce planning and transformation activity, and work closely with stakeholders across HMRC. Ad is known for clear communication, reliable delivery, and a practical, solution-focused leadership style as they consolidate experience and shape strategic operational outcomes.
For the Core Skills and skill level required for this role, visit: ODP Professional Skills Framework - Operational Delivery Profession.
