Working to his own beat

26/10/2008

Policeman and businessman Matt Scoles (1987-91) says one of the best parts of job sharing has been feeling invigorated about both roles.

Three days a week, he is a sergeant and community relations co-ordinator at the Dunedin Police Station and the other four, he helps his partner run their accommodation business – the Quest Apartments in Cumberland Street in the central city.

Sergeant Matt Scoles - 'flexibility is the key'

‘‘One of the big upsides of flexible employment options is that you’re refreshed for both jobs,’’ he says.

‘‘When I come back to the police, it’s like I’m coming back from a holiday every Monday. And it’s the same with my role within my business.’’

The 34-year-old is the only Dunedin policeman working flexible hours — an option more commonly used by women caring for children. But his bosses were supportive when he suggested the idea.

Sgt Scoles is in the station from Monday to Wednesday, sharing the community relations role with Sgt Shona Low, who works Thursdays and Fridays. This means he is involved in two fields he enjoys, and the police get two experienced people who are positive about their work, he says.

‘‘I guess some within the police could see it as being a bit of a cop-out in that you’ve got two people doing one job . . . but I beg to differ. In my case, I’m working hard to achieve in the three days I’m there.’’

Three months into the arrangement, Sgt Scoles and his superiors are still looking at how best to use his skills in the time available. As part of this, Sgt Low is taking on more of the youth education role.

‘‘Flexibility is the key word — not just in hours but in the work role as well.

‘‘But I’m very grateful to be given the opportunity [of flexible work], particularly because I’m a sergeant and part of my responsibility is supervision of staff.’’

Making the arrangement work requires give and take, he says. He and Sgt Low talk most days and the latter goes to work on her day off to attend team meetings, something he would also do if the schedule changed.

‘‘The police station doesn’t stop because I’m not there four days a week. Others can’t set meetings or catch-ups around Monday to Wednesday. And often I’m out in the evening [to meet] community groups. If there is a meeting on a Thursday evening, I don’t just say, ‘No, I don’t work that day.’ Generally I’ll take off my suit, put my blue suit on and go out.’’

Job sharing meant losing three-fifths of his police salary, giving up positions he enjoyed — such as his place on the specialist negotiation team — and spending a frustrating few hours every Monday morning clearing email and telephone messages. But Sgt Scoles says he loves the job he has been in for 12 years and did not want to leave.

‘‘I see the move as very beneficial in terms of my work-life balance and it means I can support my partner and our business. For me, it’s win-win”.