Since joining Triad in 2018, I’ve had the opportunity to work across a wide range of public sector projects, with a strong focus on agile delivery and business analysis. No two days are the same, and that’s exactly what I enjoy most about the role.
Maintaining product safety
I’m currently working as a Business Analyst with the Office for Product Safety and Standards (OPSS), part of the Department for Business and Trade.
A large part of my work involves engaging with stakeholders, from trading standards officers to market surveillance groups, who use the platform to notify unsafe or non-compliant products. I also work closely with analysts, statisticians, and machine learning experts who rely on accurate data outputs to do their jobs effectively.
We work in an agile environment, so I get to see feedback evolve into working features through quick iterations. Priorities can shift fast. Anything from a platform migration to a Freedom of Information request can change the focus. I help maintain and refine that backlog alongside our Product Owner to ensure we stay on track, even when things are moving quickly.
I appreciate the variety of my work
While my core strength lies in agile delivery, I’ve also had the chance to work in business analysis and user research. I enjoy delighting partners, whether through a small change that makes their lives easier or by helping them deliver transformational strategy. I’ve worked exclusively within the public sector, so I know that what we do ultimately benefits all of us. And I like that.
I also enjoy working across different government departments like the Ministry of Justice, Ofgem, and Department for Business and Trade. Being part of cross-functional teams means collaborating with a mix of Triad colleagues and client stakeholders, which keeps things fresh and interesting.
Getting involved in client bids has also been a valuable part of my role. It’s a long game, and staying committed can be challenging, but being part of something that could shape future projects is rewarding.
Dealing with delays
The hardest part of my role is dealing with delays, whether it’s waiting for a bid to be approved or for a project to get off the ground. I get excited about new work and want to hit the ground running, so waiting around can be frustrating. That said, I understand that processes and approvals are part of any client landscape. And it is a good to learn to deal with knock backs.
How I keep learning
Triad has always backed my professional development. I’ve completed training courses and qualifications with their support. I also enjoy self-directed learning, especially through platforms like Udemy.
I’ve found that working alongside colleagues from different areas is just as valuable as any formal training. You pick up a lot just by watching how others approach their work, and that insight feeds directly into your own development.
Support at Triad
I’ve built an open relationship with my line manager, so I always have someone to bounce ideas off. I’m also part of two Communities of Practice, which help me stay connected to colleagues across disciplines.
Within the Delivery Community of Practice, there’s a buddy system that I’ve found particularly helpful. Sometimes, just chatting with someone who understands your world is all it takes to get unstuck or reset your mindset.
What I’ve learned over time
If I could give my younger self one piece of advice, it would be: “Don’t wait for perfect clarity. Get started, and check-in regularly”. Clients often don’t have all the answers right away. Giving them something early to react to can really help move things forward.
I also learned the hard way that regular feedback is key. I once spent two weeks working on a piece of work that completely missed the mark because I hadn’t checked in with the client. Now I make sure to get feedback early and often to keep things aligned and avoid wasted effort.
Working at Triad has allowed me to explore, learn, and grow, all while delivering meaningful outcomes for clients. It’s a role that constantly challenges and rewards me in equal measure.
If you have a question for Shabaz or the Triad team, please get in touch.
