Trying something new (and loving it): my secondment story

Recently, I had the opportunity to take on a new challenge at Zoonou: a six-month secondment with our Client Services team.

‘So, would you be interested in a secondment opportunity?’ my line manager asked during a catch-up. This secondment would see me supporting one of our Client Partners, Charlotte, to help cover some maternity leave in the team.

I’m always open to new challenges and keen to grow my skill set, so the chance to gain experience in the commercial side of the business, a space I hadn’t worked in before, was exciting.

I said ‘Yes’. 

Setting goals and stepping into the unknown

And just like that, I stepped away from the familiarity of our Accessibility Team and into something entirely new. Client Services is on the front line, responsible for maintaining and supporting relationships with our clients. Our clients trust us with their investments, quality and reputations. I approached the secondment with curiosity, an open mind, and a few goals in mind:

• Build confidence in a client-facing environment.
• Improve communication flow and client responsiveness.
• Bring my delivery-side knowledge into commercial conversations.
• Start to unravel the mysteries of our Cyber Security and Performance Optimisation Services.

My focus was operational support: preparing proposals and statements of work, updating CRM data, responding to client queries, supporting project scoping, and improving how information flowed between Client Services and Operations.

I also tried to bring a delivery-informed lens to the commercial team, helping bridge the gap between how we scope, sell, and deliver work.

Breaking my expectations: what client services is really like

Honestly, I expected a more traditional sales environment: high pressure, stress and maybe some competition. But what I found was very different.

The team was collaborative, thoughtful and supportive. While there are individual targets, we’re all working toward the same goal as part of our employee-owned structure. People made time for each other. Challenges were shared, and problem-solving was a team effort.

A standout moment came during my first proposal presentation. I spoke about our approach to accessibility audits, which sparked a great conversation with the client. They had loads of questions, and we explored processes, deliverables, and practical accessibility tips for their in-house team.

It was a big shift - from supporting behind the scenes to being part of the conversation.

Growing skills and finding purpose

The experience really pushed me out of my comfort zone. I had to sharpen my communication skills ensuring I was clear, responsive, and consistent. I learned to adapt quickly and stay calm under pressure (a skill that also helps at home - with a toddler!).

I even started to demystify our Security and Performance work - learning about OWASP methodologies and seeing how performance testing keeps digital products running smoothly under pressure.

Working at a B Corp means we approach how we do things differently. There’s a clear focus on doing good through our work. The goal is to help our clients succeed - ultimately improving the quality and robustness of digital products, and outcomes for everyone. That purpose-driven approach really aligns with how I like to work: collaboratively, with care, and with impact in mind.

Saying ‘yes’ to a new career path

As the secondment came to an end, I was asked a question. ‘Would you like to stay on in a permanent role?’

I took a moment. It was a big pivot from where I started.
But I said ‘Yes!’

Now, as a permanent member of the team, my role has evolved. I support across the wider team, including our Public Sector work, and contribute to improving internal tools and workflows to help us operate more efficiently.

Looking ahead, I am excited to deepen my knowledge on the Public Sector and find new ways to integrate our services to help deliver more robust, accessible public services. I’m also keen to take on more ownership in the future; supporting more complex accounts or finding ways that help our team and clients work more efficiently. 

Reflecting on growth and what’s next

I entered the Client Services team a little nervous, but with an open mind. I embraced each challenge; my secondment taught me a huge amount, not only about the commercial side of our business but about myself too.

What started as a temporary move turned in a shift in direction, and one I may not have considered outside of my usual space. I’m glad I did. And I look forward to continuing to learn, grow and support both our team and clients. 

About Zoonou

Zoonou is a UK-based software testing company. We’re a B Corp and 100% employee owned. Combining technical delivery and advisory services, we collaborate with the private, public and third sectors to create better software, services and products.