Workplace Confidence Podcast
Welcome to the Workplace Confidence Podcast with Penny Haslam, the place where people professionals share the great work they do.
In each episode hear from leaders in HR, L&D, D&I and more as they share their insights, best practices and tips about making a real difference in the world of work.
We cover the topics that are on your mind - whether it’s finding new ways to align HR strategies across global teams or giving your L&D programs a fresh edge to keep up with today’s demands. Plus the latest thinking about D&I initiatives to create a more inclusive workplace.
We also dig into boosting leadership confidence in challenging sectors like policing and scientific research and the nitty-gritty of managing recruitment in fast-paced environments.
Throughout the series, you’ll pick up valuable advice on how to build a culture of trust, support mental well-being and implement strategies that stick.
We aim, to create a podcast that's your go-to resource for learning from the best in the business - driving the kind of positive change that matters most.
The show is brought to you by Bit Famous - trusted by leading brands to build confidence and communication skills in the workplace. Bit Famous is a finalist in the Personnel Today Awards - L&D Supplier of the Year 2024.
It's hosted by Bit Famous MD and founder Penny Haslam a female motivational speaker on the topics of communication and confidence. She's a former BBC Business News presenter.
Ready to get started? Just search for the Workplace Confidence Podcast - the place where people professionals share the great work they do.
Workplace Confidence Podcast
How to lead smart people at Signature Discovery - James Edgar
Workplace Confidence Podcast - How to lead smart people at Signature Discovery with James Edgar.
In this episode, Penny Haslam chats with James Edgar, Chief People Officer at Signature Discovery, an outsourced provider of early-stage drug discovery services for biotech and pharma companies.
James brings a unique perspective to the role with a background in media, advertising, investment banking and even private prisons. Now at Signature Discovery, he’s driving growth in a rapidly expanding company that specialises in cutting-edge science, including oncology and Alzheimer’s research.
James shares how his diverse career path and values-driven leadership style drew him to Signature Discovery, where he oversees a team of nearly 1,000 people, most of whom are highly specialised scientists.
He opens up about the challenges of maintaining a strong, family-like culture amidst rapid growth and the need to adapt communication styles to suit a more introverted, detail-oriented workforce. Highlighting the importance of co-creation and employee involvement in building company values and scaling them as the organisation expands globally.
Throughout the conversation, James and Penny explore the nuances of leading in a scientific environment, where the appetite for thorough analysis and thoughtful decision-making contrasts sharply with his previous experiences in faster-paced industries.
James talks about building confidence across the organisation, encouraging open communication and the value of creating a supportive environment where vulnerability is seen as a strength.
Tune in to hear James’ insights on leadership, the importance of backing yourself and why cultivating a people-centric culture is key to Signature Discovery’s success. This episode offers a deep dive into the evolving world of people management and the power of self-awareness and adaptability in leadership.
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