Earlier this month, the Corporate Services team held their first Away Day, with teams from across Marketing & Communications, HR, Facilities, IT, Finance and Business Development.
It was hosted by SMT members Paul Simpson, Anne Buckley, Dom Delsoldato, Carla Nuttall and Vicky McDonald and included an introductory ice breaker and a collaboration section where colleagues worked together to plan for the future and better understand our focus areas and challenges for the next 12 months.
Carla Nuttall, Executive Director of Corporate Affairs and Marketing, told us:
"It was absolutely brilliant to see everyone across our teams get to know each other better and celebrate each other's successes. I was struck by just how many people have stayed with GC for 20 years or more and who, like me, love it thanks to the great people we work with, our social purpose and the fact that two days are never the same!"
The afternoon concluded with an awards ceremony, where colleagues had nominated their peers for 5 very special awards – each highlighting the values and commitments that we live and breathe here at GC...
'Inspiring Leader Award'
Russell Thomas, Head of Marketing, People Services & Corporate (Central Marketing)
For an inspiring leader who’s passionate, confident, emotionally intelligent, decisive, and strategic. These qualities exist in their own words, their actions, and their energy – which they live and breathe every day. Knowing they can't achieve their goals alone, they bring out the best in others.
'Unsung Hero of the Year Award'
Carole Boardman, Receptionist (Facilities)
This recognised a colleague who’s positively influenced an activity, situation or challenge within our team from ‘behind the scenes’ – with a positive attitude, a willingness to help in whatever capacity is necessary, with a commitment to excellence and doing the right thing.
'Excellence in Inclusion Award'
Cheryl Madden, Organisational Development & Learning Consultant (HR)
They consistently encourage and inspire colleagues to have a sense of belonging and a voice, and empower them to feel that their backgrounds, beliefs, culture skills and abilities are valued. Leading by example, they’re an advocate for dignity at work and inclusion in our workplace and not afraid to stand up for what’s right and call out when something’s not appropriate.
'Excellence in Internal Collaboration Award'
Stuart McPherson, Internal Communications Officer (Central Marketing)
They understand that communication is the key to effective collaboration and they actively promote an open, honest and productive working environment. They’re well respected and trusted, and demonstrate effective listening skills, proactively share ideas, show empathy and understanding, and through supporting other colleagues, they consistently build trust and develop robust and productive relationships.
'Valued Star of the Year Award'
Leigh Richardson, Group Head of Financial Planning & Analysis (Finance)
They consistently evidence and promote GC’s values, through how they work and what they deliver. They demonstrate making a positive difference and understand the benefits achieved by working together, empowering those they work with – always making sure they do the right thing for the right reason and learn from their experiences to enable continual personal growth and future opportunities for themselves personal, and for GC.
