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We bring you another lesson from our Senior Management Team. This time by Sam Willett, our Director of Operations.
One lesson that has stood out to me over the past 10 years is to tailor your approach to each individual and be consistent.
As leaders, we are responsible for creating an environment of fairness and structure, where everyone feels valued and supported. This does not mean uniformity – it means recognising that every individual is unique and has their own strengths, motivations and preferred ways of working.
One size does not fit all with communication. The way we interact with our colleagues has a direct impact on the trust we build, the collaboration we foster and the success of our teams. Some people thrive on direct, to-the-point discussions, while others need context and space to process information. Some prefer a quick message, while other respond better to a face to face conversation.
Having this understanding of my team – what drives them, what motivates them, and what frustrates them has been crucial to my leadership approach. Communication isn’t just about delivering a message, it’s about ensuring that the message is received in a way that resonates. When we take the time to understand each other, we don’t just work better, we unlock potential in ways we never imagined.
While understanding others is important, understanding yourself is equally as important. 10 years have taught me leadership isn’t just about managing others, it’s also about managing yourself. Recognising my own strengths and weaknesses has allowed me to adapt to different situations, make better decisions and lead with greater empathy. Leadership is not a solo journey. It’s about building a team that complements each other – where strengths are amplified, and weaknesses aren’t hidden but developed into opportunities for growth
By understanding my own behavioural traits, and also my teams, we worked together to foster a culture where people are empowered to grow. When we acknowledge our weaknesses, we create space of learning. When we also recognise each other’s strengths, we create space for excellence.
But leadership isn’t always about having the answers. In fact, the most valuable insights often come from the most unexpected places. Four years ago, I stepped into a completely new industry. It was overwhelming. I could have chosen to rely solely on my past experience, but to truly succeed, I knew that I had to listen. To my team, to my peers. I asked questions, absorbed their knowledge and learnt from their expertise first hand. The mindset that shaped my career was constantly learning from everyone.
My time at UK Biocentre has been nothing short of transformative. It has challenged me, pushed me, and at times thrown me in the deep end. Every challenge has been an opportunity. Every lesson has helped me become a better leader, a better colleague, and a better person. It taught me that the greatest leaders are those who grow alongside their teams, embracing the knowledge, perspectives and strengths of those around them.
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