Evolution is a constant process and so I intend to continue to focus on improvement in the following areas:

Personal development and skills training -Continuing to own my own learning and development planning. In particular, in my current role of Head of Data Science, I want to expand my communication efforts in improving data literacy among the wider New Scientist team and key stakeholders.  On the other end of the spectrum I want to improve my understanding of underlying technology, systems infrastructure and database development and integration with business intelligence tools.  I’m surrounding by a wealth of data – I want to make sure that important data insights are understood and acted upon quickly.

Team Dynamics– after the performance phase, teams change and/or disband and similarly continue to evolve.  Underneath that individual development plans need to align with team goals that work towards the overall business goals.  As each of these change over time, it’s important to re-evaluate and prepare appropriately.  Historically in the context of the RBI performance review system, it makes sense to pick this up with the new year and PDP cycle, but I believe that the ripples of other team changes may impact and influence others throughout the year so it’s important to stay on top of that.  Similarly, I want to be able to demonstrate that new ideas are acted upon quickly and that the team continues to have the flexibility, autonomy and enthusiasm to deliver on their goals.

Business & commercial acumen – One of the benefits of the DME course for me was the sharing of business model tools and frameworks for thinking.  I thrive on structure and organization, and found these useful ways for me to think about problems. I intend to continue this learning journey, specifically as it relates to the financial metrics that we associate with our business.  My goal in the near future is to be able to accurately and persuasively present business cases that will ensure audience and revenue growth for New Scientist on an efficient and sustainable scale.

This November I will reach my 10 year anniversary as an employee at RELX. As mentioned at the start of this portfolio – this feat has been reached due to a combination of constant learning opportunities, supporting a quality product portfolio with a worthy vision and working with fantastic, helpful and intelligent colleagues.  My aim is to ensure that I’m doing all I can to support my own learning and development, ensure my team is content, committed and successful and that together, we deliver customer value and business growth.