Where did you first hear about Orbit?
I was searching for a new opportunity and came across Orbit via Indeed. I had never heard of Orbit before and wanted to learn more. After visiting the website, I noticed that they offered graduate schemes and was immediately interested in applying for one in Business Services.
What is it about Orbit that made you want to apply for the role? What makes Orbit unique? What did you enjoyed the most whilst working at Orbit?
I have always wanted to make a difference in people’s lives and being able to work in a role where I could help support that really made Orbit stand out for me. Previously, I worked in the private sector and although I wanted to succeed within my roles, I have more drive at Orbit knowing that I could impact someone’s, or several people’s lives
Insight into some of the work produced
During my graduate scheme, I supported the Orbit Earth project and lead on developing an office standards document which would help to influence any future office decisions we make to ensure we are making sustainable decisions. It was great to be able to network with so many employees and different levels of stakeholders to produce a set of standards which encompassed many people’s visions. I learnt a lot on stakeholder management and developed my influencing and facilitation skills further.
Where are you now after the scheme?
I am currently the Customer Engagement Manager. I love my role and it provides autonomy to be able to try out new innovations to ensure we capture as many different customers voices as possible. I have been blessed to be able to make such a difference and lead a team in order to realise a new vision. Orbit was an early adopter for the National Housing Federations Together with Tenants charter, and I have had the pleasure of working with our customers to develop our approach and will now begin conversations with customers on what the White Paper means to them and how we can improve our engagement opportunities further.
What have you achieved personally or professionally including qualifications gained?
Since joining Orbit, I am currently studying towards a Level 4 Apprenticeship Improvement Practitioner, a great programme designed for those responsible for the delivery and coaching of improvement activity within their area of authority. I have also achieved my green belt in Lean Six Sigma, which is a method that relies on a collaborative team effort to improve performance by systematically removing waste and reducing variation. This has enabled me to develop lean thinking to developing processes for the team and has also provided a methodology to use for a brand-new innovative scrutiny programme. Outside of this, I have also attended several events through Tpas, the Disruptive Innovators Network and Housing Conferences in order to further succeed in my role. It has helped me to develop my internal stakeholder relationships, presentation and networking skills.
Where do you see your longer-term career?
I would love to continue making a difference and therefore, would like to continue to progress as my skills and knowledge develops in order to gain more influence and be able to shape more services. I am passionate about helping our customers to have a better day, every day. We are more than just a landlord and the importance of a home is a great foundation for success. I am hoping to be able to progress to a Head of Service in the future as I enjoy working with internal stakeholders and being proactive in thinking ahead. I enjoy coming up with new visions and would like to lead on this in the future supporting my managers to deliver the services.
Why do you like working at Orbit?
I like working for Orbit as it cares about its employee’s and is very open to new ideas. People believe in other’s development. During my time at Orbit I have had a coach, mentor and a series of opportunities where my management team have believed in me. I have presented to our Chief Executive Officer and across the sector Without their support, guidance and belief I would not have been in the position I am today. Every person I have interacted with, at all different levels, always find the time to educate me further. We have some great leaders, who I aspire to be like in the future.
Any recommendations for any future Apprentice/Graduate coming into business?
Use the opportunity to find out as much as you can about different departments at Orbit. Having a network of people, you can engage with throughout your career will stand you in very good stead. It is also a unique opportunity to bring in some fresh ideas and start to see the links on how departments can work better together. Not many people have the opportunity outside of Business as usual to identify these links so it will help us to achieve together in the future. Don’t be afraid to ask questions either, the more questions you ask, the more knowledge you gain.
Describe Orbit in one word
Inspiring