Sally - Head of Operations (Planning)
Tell us a little bit about yourself (as much as you want to reveal!) – your work background, your interests…
I’m Sally and I've worked in planning and building control at Wiltshire Council for 20 years having worked my way up from being an apprentice to now being the head of service for building control and the technical support team
I am a keen runner and I enjoy keeping fit, working next to the sports centre works brilliantly for me because I can get out and do classes at lunchtime, being a working full time mum of two girls, there isn't much time to do that outside of work
What would you say is the best thing about working at Wiltshire Council, and your job specifically?
There are a lot of things ….. I love the people I work with; they make my job so much easier and enjoyable, I also like it that no two days are the same, there is always something new to work on and plenty of challenges
Although for me the best thing is the flexible working. Having the flexibility of working at home or from one of the three main hubs throughout Wiltshire (Salisbury, Trowbridge or Chippenham) I have a young family so the fact that I can work between 7.00am to 7.00pm really helps me keep a work life balance
What’s the best way to start the day?
I love early starts – I log on before everyone else is up which gives me a head start on the day, that and a strong cup of coffee! I can then take my daughter to school without feeling guilty
What is the most meaningful part of your role?
Developing my team to progress in their careers, and getting new business for building control – it's great when we win a big contract!
What do you wish you knew more about?
Everything, every day is a school day!
What would you be doing if you weren’t in your current role?
I would still be in PR and Communications
Who inspires you?
People who always see the glass as half full
Where is the most interesting place you’ve been?
New York – I love the architecture, the history and the general buzz of the city
What was the most memorable gift you’ve received?
Original Mini Cooper – bought for me by my now husband for my 21st Birthday
What song or artist do you like but rarely admit to liking?
Madonna – Like a Prayer – properly belt this out when it comes on the radio (very badly!)
What was the best concert you have ever attended?
Coldplay and U2
What's the most daring thing you've ever done?
Applying for the head of service role
What is your favourite book or film, and why?
My favourite film is Star Wars (the original 3 films) and my favourite books are the Harry Potter series
What would you say to someone who is thinking of applying for a role at Wiltshire Council?
Go for it!
We are a great team who take pride in doing things well. Wiltshire invests in it's employees and if you want to get on and develop, the opportunities are there
