Zara Green
Current Employer/Organisation Name
UK ENIC / Ecctis Ltd
Can you give us an overview of what you have done since you completed your research degree?
I started at UK ENIC / Ecctis a week after handing in my thesis and have been there ever since. I’ve had a variety of roles, all associated with being the national body responsible for assessing international qualifications for people planning to work or study in the UK. My current role requires me to work closely with UNESCO, the a Council of Europe and the Department for Education, ensuring the UKs interests are represented at an international level.
How did you become interested in the area you work in?
I did a year abroad as part of my undergraduate degree and loved the international student experience, so knew it was an area linked to that.
How did you find opportunities in the area you work in and how did the recruitment process work?
I was head hunted. The interview process included a language test, general questions and a presentation.
What does your current role involve?
Liaising with different stakeholders. Organising events. Giving feedback on policy. Line management. Giving presentations. Chairing discussion forums.
What skills are involved in your work and how did your research degree help develop them?
Research, analysis, writing persuasively.
What do you enjoy most about your role?
Being the UK’s voice and ensuring it is heard.
What are the challenges in your role?
Line management.
What has surprised you about your role?
How much I’ve loved it.
Did you engage in any additional activities or roles (i.e. organising conferences, entering PGR showcase, being a PGR Rep etc.) during your research degree, and how did these help prepare you for a career beyond academia?
No.
What skills and experiences have been most useful for your career?
Having a postgraduate qualification and a languages undergraduate degree – it was a requirement for the role.
What advice would you give to a current student who wishes to pursue your career?
Mine is extremely niche, but as long as you love your niche, why not?
What are your plans for the future?
More of the same I think.
