Sonja Singh — Studied a postgraduate degree in political science, philosophy and political theory
Sonja studied a postgraduate degree in political science, philosophy and political theory at The University of Manchester. She is now a delivery manager in digital and data technology within the Cabinet Office
Talk us through your education history
I studied BA Theological Studies in Philosophy and Ethics at The University of Manchester in 2016. Though I enjoyed the degree, I was unsure about my career path. Initially considering teaching, I later discovered the Civil Service Fast Stream program. After completing my undergraduate degree, I participated in the summer diversity internship program within the Civil Service Fast Stream, gaining first-hand experience in government work with the Department for Work and Pensions.
Following this internship and fuelled by my passion for studying, I pursued a Masters degree in Political Science, Philosophy, and Political Theory at The University of Manchester. This postgraduate journey was academically challenging yet highly rewarding. During this time, I actively explored career options, and my prior internship experience influenced my decision to apply for the Civil Service Fast Stream, where I was accepted.
After finishing my Masters degree, I officially joined the Civil Service Fast Stream, embarking on a three-year program where the graduate scheme determined my postings. Although I initially aimed for policy roles, I found myself in project delivery positions. This experience exposed me to central government workings, particularly within the Cabinet Office, during critical times like Brexit and the COVID-19 pandemic. Eventually, I transitioned to a full-time role as a delivery manager in digital and data technology within the Cabinet Office, a transition I thoroughly enjoyed.
What skills did you gain from your degrees and how have they helped?
My university experience equipped me with essential skills that I apply in my current role. Firstly, my ability to write effectively, honed through essays and reports during my studies, is crucial for producing reports and documents in my job.
Secondly, my analytical skills, developed through reviewing various literature and analysing data sets during my university years, play a pivotal role in my work. Lastly, my communication skills, enhanced by collaborative group projects with fellow students, are vital as I manage a multidisciplinary team in my current position. All these skills have been transferable and invaluable in my career.
Also, during my time at The University of Manchester, I had the privilege of participating in the Global Graduates Programme in my first year, which included a week in Toronto with work experience and the opportunity to connect with alumni. In my second year, I embarked on a summer exchange to Beijing, China, which enriched my personal and professional growth significantly. These experiences, made possible by the university, contributed to my development and career progression.
What does a typical day as a delivery manager involve?
I have the flexibility to work from home, with occasional visits to our Manchester and London offices. First, I check my emails for any urgent requests and then I plan the day with my team.
At 10:30am, we have a standard meeting where we discuss progress, daily plans, and potential challenges. As a delivery manager in a multidisciplinary team, including business analysts, engineers, developers and principal architects my role is to ensure we share the same vision, contributing to government projects that enhance digital services. Throughout the day, I attend various sessions, such as stakeholder meetings, updates for senior team members, and resource and budget planning.
In the afternoons, my tasks vary, from managing risks to updating documents and using software tools to facilitate project progress. The diversity of responsibilities keeps my work engaging. But when it's time to log off, I ensure I have a clear view of my schedule for the next day to collaborate effectively with my team.
What do you enjoy about your role?
What I love most about my job is the opportunity to contribute to projects that enhance the efficiency of government operations. We develop solutions that improve the daily work experiences of our colleagues. For instance, one project involved creating a centralised data repository, eliminating the need for colleagues to juggle numerous spreadsheets.
My role primarily focuses on internal projects within government, where we aim to optimize processes and resources. Ultimately, my work aims to enhance the government's functionality and efficiency while ensuring that our colleagues have a better work experience.
Find out more
- Read all about The University of Manchester’s MA Political Science.