Thank you to Aloma for writing us this update on the FPLF* Team Development Day.

Finance and Planning Leadership Forum – Team Development Day

“On my own I will just create, and if it works, it works, and if it doesn’t, I’ll create something else. I do not have any limitations on what I think I could do or be”

– Oprah Winfrey

The above quote articulates how I felt after our recent Finance and Planning Leadership Forum Team Development Day. I left with a feeling that there were infinite possibilities and an opportunity to create an environment where the talents of everyone within our Directorate can THRIVE!

The day started with a little apprehension and curiosity, but ended with a clear sense of direction and purpose.

Danny Hannah delivered an excellent session on understanding and building team potential in the morning, which enabled us to understand our preferred way of working, and that of our FPLF colleagues. As always ensuring that we have a diversity of work styles and preferences was considered to be the secret to effective cross-directorate team working.

In the afternoon we were challenged to reflect on how we maximise the capabilities of not only ourselves but the wider directorate. Clarity of vision and focusing on our common goal to enhance the organisational performance of the University was an essential starting point. Underpinning this of course is a sense of shared values and our role in transforming the lives of our colleagues and students.

The day ended with a feeling of renewed energy and a commitment to continue the conversation about our vision and mission with the wider team.

Reflecting on Oprah’s quote above when we building on our collective strengths and knowledge we have no limitations to our success as a directorate!

Aloma Onyemah, Head of Equality and Diversity

*FPLF – The direct reports of Linda Mason, Emma Scoffield and Simon Taylor