As we celebrate a decade of UK Biocentre, we reflect on the invaluable lessons we've learned along the way. Join our Senior Management Team as they share their insights and experiences from the past ten years.
We’re kicking off this series with our Head of Project Office, Gemma John. Gemma reflects on the power of adaptability, teamwork and understanding different perspectives.
True success comes not from individual effort but from collective synergy
Over the past two years during my time at UKBC, I have come to truly value the power of adaptability, understanding diverse perspectives, and fostering teamwork. The unpredictable nature of life and work during this period taught me to navigate shifting priorities with flexibility, a skill I initially found challenging but have since embraced wholeheartedly. Adapting to change has not only allowed me to thrive in uncertain situations but has also enhanced my ability to remain calm and solution-focused when facing unexpected challenges.
A key aspect of this adaptability was learning to view situations from multiple perspectives. Understanding others' expectations and points of view has broadened my own perspective and improved my communication and decision-making skills. It has made me more empathetic, enabling me to connect better with colleagues, clients, and stakeholders. By actively listening and seeking to understand, I’ve discovered that collaboration flourishes when everyone feels seen and heard.
Equally transformative was realizing the importance of working as a united team. True success comes not from individual effort but from collective synergy. Investing time to understand the unique strengths, challenges, and motivations of my team members has been invaluable. This not only strengthened our work relationships but also allowed us to leverage our combined talents to overcome hurdles and achieve shared and business goals effectively.
Finally, learning about my teammates on a personal level brought a sense of unity and trust. This connection fostered an environment where everyone felt safe contributing their ideas and taking ownership of their roles. As a result, our teamwork became more cohesive and impactful.
These lessons in adaptability, perspective-taking, and collaboration have not only made me a better professional but also a more considerate and resilient individual. They remind me daily of the power of connection, understanding, and collective effort.