Duchess Pascua - Project Manager
Name, Job Title, Years in Serco
Duchess Pascua, Project Manager, 11 years at Serco Middle East.
Tell us a little bit about your role?
I am responsible for managing the delivery of additional project works, programme management and administration of one of Serco Middle East’s major airport contracts. I lead the team in preparing bids and quotations and implement projects. In addition to this, I also set up processes and procedures based on the needs of our client and stakeholders.
How do you feel Serco has supported you?
Serco has launched several initiatives to provide opportunities, platforms and forums for females in the organisation. In Serco, I have been enabled to develop and progress in different aspects, personally and professionally.
I started as a Train Attendant in 2009 which was the most exciting role I’ve ever had up to that point.
I then had the chance to work on different contracts with exceptional contract managers and directors, I learned new things and met different people.
What makes a good leader?
A good leader seizes every growth opportunity for his or her team. Good leaders set goals and allow their team to freely work in achieving them, and steer when needed. Welfare and safety of the team always comes first.
How do you balance work and life responsibilities?
I have a family who supports and understands the demand of my job. I use time smartly. I make sure that I am productive and focused on the task in front of me, so that when I go home, I have energy and attention left for my family.
What has been the highlight of your career?
Living and working in KSA with the best people in the railway industry. I have learned that excellence knows no gender, ethnicity or nationality. You can earn respect by treating people fairly and living the Serco values of Trust, Care, Pride and Innovation.
Who inspires you and why?
My mother is a strong independent woman who valued her profession for 45 years before she retired as a public school English teacher. In the Philippines, resources are very limited, but education is the only way to escape poverty. She is dedicated and hardworking. She always tells me to give 100% at work and be nice and patient with everyone, no matter what their position is.
What advice would you give to females who are just starting their careers?
Do not be afraid to take on tasks outside your job description and comfort zone. Volunteer and get involved with site and operations activities. Get hands-on experience to understand how the business works. Build good, genuine and long-term relationships with people.
What’s next for you?
I wish I could do more in terms of sharing my experiences, acquired skills to others, mentoring fresh graduates and young professionals through outreach programmes.
I will also continue to work on supporting our team at the airport we work in. We look forward to passing this challenging COVID-19 phase.