Management at Department of the Prime Minister and Cabinet (PM&C)

Depends on the team. I have only worked with excellent managers committed to your development.

PM&C has a flat structure compared to most departments so managers are highly accessible. Managers often have a wealth of experience not only in PM&C but across government and even beyond, and will be able to help support your development. Communication is normally clear and efficient although that could be interpreted as blunt by some. Praise is often given, both in one-on-one conversations but also at stand-ups and other opportunities to provide recognition in front of colleagues. Performance feedback is sometimes given but it is important that one proactively seeks it to show enthusiasm for improvement.

Most managers (EL2 and above) I've encountered are relatable, generous and kind hearted. They take care of employees and know what to expect from which level/grads compared to their assistant directors (executive level 1). Many directors have made great mentors and given fantastic advice, feedback, praise and support.

It can vary but supervisors and senior staff generally quite accessible. graduates particularly receive strong mentoring. Feedback is constructive and often accompanied with plenty of encouragement.

Mostly yes, very accessible and approachable right up to Dep Sec. Every now and then you get an absent SES but that is not common here.

Very very satisfied.

I have had an overall positive experience with my managers. In one area, it was awful and would not recommend it as a safe space to work.

Personally speaking, my supervisors have all been excellent. While they had different levels of experience and so were able to offer different levels of support, they were all very generous and responsive and open to helping me after I had rotated out of their teams.

Within teams, I have found managers incredibly approachable. I've found you have to upwards manage though, in order to get feedback.

Direct supervisor is excellent - limited communication with higher levels of management (e.g. Deputy Secretaries).

Mid-level managers are very approachable and even senior executive are quite approachable.

Depending on level of seniority and individual approaches, generally senior management is effective.

My managers make excellent mentors.

One of my managers has been highly accessible and is a wonderful mentor for me. She ensured the team had exemplary internal communication, consistent feedback and a high level of recognition — the team had a wonderful culture. Another of my managers has been less accessible with poorer communication, feedback and recognition. However, this seems to be the exception and not the rule.

The performance management process is normally not used effectively or taken seriously. Managers vary a lot from area to area.