Our people | Catrin Ormerod
Head of Earnings Analysis (Principal Researcher)
I came to ONS two years ago. I had worked at the Local Government Data Unit in Wales since graduating and felt I wanted to broaden my statistics and analysis experience.
Now, I run an annual programme of earnings analysis projects. I work with customers – such as the DTI (Department of Trade and Industry), HM Treasury and Bank of England – to develop the programme and frequently travel to London to meet them. I have a large amount of control and, as the programme's flexible, I can respond to current issues that arise.
The projects involve economic and/or statistical analysis that's published in ONS articles or on the web. I also submit some of the papers to academic journals, and often present our research results to other government departments and academic conferences.
My line manager is keen for me to develop a more strategic role and so encourages me to attend high-level meetings. I recently presented to the Chief Statisticians of Government Departments at the Head of Professions Meeting about accessing microdata at ONS, and I find this level of influence fulfilling. I've also benefited from ONS funded training, and have just finished a PRINCE2 practitioner course, which will provide me with a widely recognised project management qualification.
ONS gives you good opportunities to broaden your experience across data collection, analysis and IT, and to represent your division with other business areas, such as HR and Information Management. You can have a strong say on developments beyond your direct responsibilities.
