Royal Borough of Kingston upon Thames Reviews

Pros

This two-year graduate scheme, run by the Local Government Association, is a great opportunity to commence your career in public sector and local government. It's a two year programme across four different placements with a department of your choosing. Managers so far have been extremely supportive and there is plenty of opportunity to be able to work closely with senior colleagues. Also one of the friendliest environments I have worked in.

Cons

It's a shame that there is no guarantee of a job (or that the scheme doesn't lead into a full time position at a higher level) after the two year contract, as talent is not retained, and usually lost to other areas such as the Civil Service, public sector consultancies etc...

Pros

Flexible working and town centre

Cons

Culture and senior management hard

Pros

People are nice, friendly and generally keen to do the right thing for residents. Some People who work in local government don't know what streets really is! Loads of people come in late and leave early or take "working from home" days unchecked Not necessarily a pro, but gives a work life balance!

Cons

The Council lacks direction. Management is weak and leadership isn't evident. Pay is low , but you know that when you go into local government.

Pros

Flexible working; All the benefits of working for local government in the UK, including local government pension; Progressing with project management methods;

Cons

Uninspired leadership; Misguided organisational restructuring; obscure criteria for promotions; although there are committees where representatives of staff can discuss their concerns with directors, the outcomes are not always very clear or effective.

Pros

Great location, excellent culture and some real talent employed across many departments. Some inspirational leadership and a supportive, innovative board.

Cons

Speed of change can be frustratingly slow, sometimes too much talk and no action! Not everyone is forward thinking.