Our people | Debra Leaker
Methods Development Manager
A competitive starting salary and the opportunity to work in the area I was trained in were what attracted me to joining ONS nine years ago. That was when I graduated. Now, the inspiring work, career progress and fantastic working conditions are what keep me here.
I'm currently working on a project developing a new monthly statistic. I've been researching and developing methodology, as well as managing staff and system developers. This has led to quality assuring data calculated within a new ONS system, which involves regular contact with colleagues in other divisions. Some of them are senior managers and methodologists, whom I have to liaise with to agree methods. It has meant producing detailed written reports and giving presentations. It's certainly my most challenging role to date.
ONS encourages you to move laterally as well as vertically. I've worked in three very different areas and, in each case, the work has stretched me, given me new skills and helped me gain promotion. I’ve even travelled to Eurostat in Luxembourg to represent the UK.
