Unlocking team potential - strategies for constructing a high performing HSW Team

09 Apr 2025
The Knowledge Exchange Theatre
The Knowledge Exchange Theatre
In this session, Laura and Ruth will explore the critical elements required to build a high performing Health, Safety, and Wellbeing (HSW) team. The discussion will centre on how effective leadership creates the foundation for excellence, emphasising the role of psychological safety, team engagement, and robust stakeholder management. Key points will include:


Transformational leadership
How leaders can inspire, empower, and mentor their teams by setting clear visions, establishing shared values, and leading by example. The talk will highlight practical strategies to develop leadership qualities across all levels, ensuring that every team member is aligned with our mission.

Psychological safety
An exploration of creating an environment where team members feel safe to speak up, share ideas, and challenge the status quo without fear of retribution, including how psychological safety underpins innovation and continuous improvement in HSW practices.

Engagement and collaboration
Techniques to foster deep engagement and build a culture of collaboration within and across teams. This will include methods for effective communication, trust-building, and the role of cross-functional collaboration in achieving high performance.

Stakeholder management
Strategies for managing and collaborating with both internal and external stakeholders, ensuring that diverse perspectives are incorporated, and that there is alignment with broader organizational goals. This section will cover how to navigate complex stakeholder landscapes while maintaining a focus on safety and wellbeing.

Continuous improvement and resilience
Finally, we will address the importance of embracing a mindset of continuous improvement, encouraging teams to learn from challenges and remain resilient in the face of change. This approach not only supports HSW objectives but also drives overall organizational excellence.

Through a blend of theory and practical examples, the session will provide actionable insights and strategies that leaders can use to build and sustain a high performing HSW team. 

Speakers
Laura Aucott
Laura Aucott, Associate Director - HSE Recruitment
Ruth Denyer
Ruth Denyer, Senior Director, Production Health and Safety - Netflix