Sonia's Profile

My first post here was supporting what was then called a District Works Manager. It was a very challenging role which involved being responsible for a number of staff whilst juggling a very varied workload with various responsibilities. I managed the PWD (Parliamentary Works Directorate) Pay and Personnel for the Craft Team. At this time we did not have computers to carry out our work which meant that errors could easily arise as all the work was completed by hand. Luckily, times moved forward and I was here for the introduction of the first computer system in the Parliamentary Works Directorate in the early 1990s.

In my current role I am responsible to the Facilities Director of Finance for managing Departmental Financial Support Services and I manage a team of five staff. My duties include carrying out Departmental System and User Support duties on internal computer software packages.

Training and Development is recognised as an important part of career progression at the House of Commons. When I first started working here the House supported me in studying part-time for my BTEC qualification in Public Administration and Law and I've been able to attend various internal training courses as well. All of this has helped me to get where I am today and hopefully further in years to come.

1986

Joined the Parliamentary District Works Office on Secondment as a District Works Administrator from PSA (an external Government Department looking after the House of Commons Estate).

1993

Came across to the House of Commons when the House took responsibility for the management of the Estate.

1996

Promoted to Finance Manager for the Parliamentary Works Directorate

2001

Role changed and managed the Finances for Parliamentary Information Communication Technology and Serjeant at Arms Department.

2001

Promoted to my current position.