"I soon realised what an exciting opportunity!"
Hi, I’m Lorna and I’m a Project Officer within the Business Improvement Team! I’ve worked at MHA for 8 years across departments, including Performance, Corporate Services and now Business Improvement. I actually started my new role when I returned from maternity leave last year. Lets just say, having a year off on maternity and not only returning to work, but returning to a new JOB was pretty intimidating! However, I soon realised what an exciting opportunity!
In my current role, no two days are identical which is one of things I most love! When it comes to project management, there are definitely peaks as well as bumps in the road, so adapting to the various scenarios combined with support from my team has been key to the success in my new role.
Here’s a flavour of a day in the life of a Project Officer…
Morning Inbox Triage: Begin the day by managing emails and messages. Prioritising urgent matters and setting the tone for the day.
Team Catch-Up: At least once a week, Emma (my manager) and I huddle over coffee to review goals, priorities, and any potential issues – clear communication is key!
Progress Meetings also known as “Sprint meetings”: For each project I manage, we have weekly ‘Sprint’ Meetings to run over project updates, address any issues and manage contract-related duties with the wider team. It also boosts momentum for exciting project on the horizon!
Testing and checking and more testing and checking : Whether that be app, process or new project management software-related, we’re constantly fine tuning to ensure we’re delivering what we said we would. Striving to achieve seamless processes or new software efficiency for our tenants!
Helping staff to get to grips with new software and processes: As with anything new or when something changes, it can take some time to embed. We’re always conscious of keeping staff in the loop and up to date, as well as providing any training or support they might need for the most fluid transition – we’re always happy to help or explain anything, just give us a shout. We love getting to work with other teams – it’s fascinating to see what other people get up to in work.
Continuous Learning
MHA is dedicated to nurturing both personal and professional growth and I’ve been lucky enough to achieve 2 APMG International certificates in Agile Project Management and Change Management in the past year, as well as being accepted on to the Future Leaders’ programme. I really enjoy learning and both have been invaluable to me becoming a more confident and competent project officer. The qualifications gave me the theoretical knowledge, whilst the Future Leaders has pushed me to have practical experience. MHA have really provided with me the tools to flourish in all areas of my role!