"Home is like a Harbour": The Innovation Hub Experience

At the Innovation Hub, we often find members of our team saying, "Home is like a harbour." This sentiment captures the essence of our team culture, a place where individuals feel supported, valued, and part of a close-knit community.

One of our team members, Kelly Chi , recently shared how this phrase resonates with her. As she considers new opportunities within the university, she reflected on how much ITPI has come to feel like a safe and welcoming environment. Our line manager, Brian Green , assured her that should she decide to explore new paths and later wish to return, ITPI would be here, ready to support her. This assurance reminded her that the Innovation Hub isn't just a workplace, it's a community where people can grow, explore, and still feel connected.

Therefore, ISS Innovation Hub is more than just a job; it's a place where collaboration and mutual respect thrive. Our team is made up of both students and full-time staff who work together on a variety of university and external projects. This blend of diverse backgrounds, ages, and expertise creates an environment rich in learning and innovation. We try to regularly spend time together outside of work, whether it’s playing field games during lunch, going on walks, or participating in pub quizzes. These activities foster stronger bonds and reinforce our commitment to teamwork and collaboration.

While our environment is welcoming, we also maintain a high level of professionalism and commitment to our work. Our line manager, Brian Green , has a record of supporting team members in their professional journeys. For instance, our Marketing Coordinator Joanna Ortiz took time off last summer to travel across Asia, upon her return, she was reintegrated into the team seamlessly. Similarly, Maria Hristova , who took a break earlier this year to focus on her masters, was welcomed back when she was ready to rejoin us. These examples illustrate our commitment to retaining talent and supporting our team members as they navigate their careers. We understand that life can take people in different directions, and we strive to provide an environment where team members can thrive, whether they're here for a short time or the long haul.

It is evident that at the Innovation Hub, professional development is a priority. Brian and our scrum coaches therefore hold regular one-on-one meetings with team members to discuss their progress, goals, and any challenges they may be facing. This proactive approach ensures that everyone is aligned with their roles and that their work is both fulfilling and impactful. Ava Sims 's journey is a great example of this. She started in marketing but expressed her desire to gain experience in design. With Brian Green 's support, she has transitioned into a senior UX/UI designer role, where she now excels.

To foster innovation, Brian Green recently introduced the concept of "Freedom Fridays," where team members are encouraged to explore new projects and ideas that interest them. This initiative reflects our commitment to continuous learning and creativity, providing a structured yet flexible environment where new ideas can flourish.

At ISS Innovation Hub, we value our people and their professional growth, aiming to create a supportive environment that encourages both personal and professional development. Our commitment to fostering a strong, collaborative community ensures that, no matter where our team members' careers may lead them, they always feel a sense of belonging with us.