After 8 truly amazing years at Civil Service Local the time has finally come for me to dip my toes back into departmental waters and put into practice all that I've been preaching!
The original challenge from Ian Watmore (the then Permanent Secretary for Cabinet Office and Efficiency and Reform) was something along the lines of
"we have some money for a year to get the Civil Service better connected - go and do some good stuff that gets departments working together and builds capability....."
Civil Service Local was born and the rest, as they say, is history. Challenge accepted, done and exceeded!
It's been a real pleasure and honour to be part of building an organisation which has such a significant impact on civil servants across the land. You only have to read our blog pages to get a sense of the tangible difference being part of a CS Local opportunity has made to both the civil servants and the citizens we serve.
Along the way I've learned lots about the Civil Service, wider public sector and people! I've met such wonderful people with a passion for public service who, with a little support and encouragement to believe in themselves, have gone on to do amazing things both personally and professionally. I can't thank everyone enough for the support I've received over the years too many to name, you are all part of the CS Local success story. Working together in teams across boundaries, be that departmental, grade, location or cultural combined with giving new things a go and a brilliant CS Local Team has made, what sometimes seemed impossible, possible and this role truly unique and special.
If you want to learn more about us or get involved here's a link to our business plan or look around this blog site.
So what will I take with me:
- a sense of achievement - taking opportunities from concepts to award winning programmes, working alongside passionate people who believe in a goal. #bestoperatingmodel
- enthusiasm - we have so many talented and determined people... anything is possible, so be brave and give things a go
- a little of the CS Local Magic to sprinkle far and wide in the new role
And what will I leave behind....hopefully a footprint that stands the test of time along with a little piece of my heart.
Civil Service Local has most definitely been the best experience of my career - don't hesitate to get involved. I'm already looking forward to seeing life from the other side as a member of the North West Steering Group, no doubt I'll make an appearance as an academy dragon and will be actively encouraging my new team to get involved.
So for now, Au Revoir! Keep networking, developing your career, raising aspirations, pushing the boundaries and making the vision of a brilliant Civil Service real for local people.
Kind regards
Kathie
7 comments
Comment by Rob caterrob. posted on
Bless her! Good luck Kathie we love you! On behalf of the peacocks- we wish you all the best for the future! Rob, CSL Chester 2015..
Comment by John Mark Haskey posted on
Kathie said:
"Awh bless you ? thank you peacocks and families everywhere. You’re the ones who did all the hard work...I just asked you to believe ?"
I copied it here as it came from an unknown email address.
Comment by Jackie Southcombe posted on
All the best Kathie x
Comment by Nahida ahmed posted on
An amazing person Kathie Bates and you will be greatly missed. You have been an inspirational to hundreds so thank you for all that you have done. I have no doubt that you will do great things in your new role - I wish you all the best.
Comment by Janet Savin posted on
Has it really been 8 years! Your enthusiasm and 'can do' attitude is what Civil Service Local is all about. My time with CSL in the South West was also the highlight of my career and whenever I get an opportunity to promote the opportunities on offer, I do. I wish you well, and I am sure you will be a valuable member of the NW Steering Group
Comment by Brian McGuinness posted on
All the best Kathie - thank you for everything and enjoy your new role!
Comment by Kathie posted on
Thanks everyone for your kind words. Means a lot....please stay in touch, the next adventure is just around the corner x