When I joined Capita four years ago, I decided to take my ambition seriously and pursue my long-term career goals. Until then, I’d loved my day job, but it was just that – a day job. With the incredible range of support that I’ve received from Capita to reach my ambitious goals, today I’m a Lead Business Analysis Manager, and the Chair – and Co-Founder – of the Black Employee Network.
Practising my leadership skills
To reach my goals, there were plenty of new skills to learn, and they were all way beyond my comfort zone. I’d need to start expanding my skillset to include people management, leadership, coaching, and mentoring, if I was going to progress in my career.
But as soon as my managers knew about my ambitions, they gave me opportunities to learn. I enrolled on two Apprenticeship courses, level 5 and Level 7 Leadership courses, and an Agile Coaching Course. I was even given line manager responsibilities, to learn about managing people.
I loved the fact that I could learn at my own pace and start practising right away in my daily work. It was tricky to balance learning while working, but throughout it all I’ve been guided by my excellent mentors, who worked on building my confidence and my people skills.
Co-founding the Black Employee Network (BEN)
This support didn’t just spur on my career – it also unleashed the confidence and the passion I needed to make real change where it matters. I co-founded the Black Employee Network (BEN) and began by personally seeking out potential members from across Capita.
And then BEN gained momentum beyond my expectations! We aim to improve the wellbeing of our members, and attract global membership; to increase recruitment, and decrease attrition levels, of Black colleagues; and to build engagement across Capita through educational events.
Our vision is simple, but it couldn’t be more crucial: for Black colleagues to be empowered and supported to excel in their careers – without being limited or harmed by the effects of racism. So that we can be proud to be Black, and proud to be Capita, together.
Realising my vision
My motto as Chair of BEN, and my commitment to members, is this:
“I believe in creating the life others say is impossible, and I’ll hold that same belief for you.”
For me, creating that new life started with speaking up about my passions and my ambitions. That’s the first step: from there, Capita will give you the training, the practice, and the support you need to bring your goals to life.
#Capita #BeBrilliantBeYou
