The Brief – Rapid Growth, Urgent Need for Team Cohesion
In early 2024, West Midlands Cancer Alliance experienced a transformational year, growing from 12 to 40 employees in just 12 months. This expansion brought together professionals from diverse backgrounds, each with unique working styles.
The challenge was clear: integrate these individuals quickly, foster trust, and establish effective communication channels to deliver against critical organisational goals. Without a shared framework, the risks of silo working, misunderstanding, and slower decision-making were high.
Having previously seen the benefits of Insights™ Discovery, Jillian Guild approached Newland Partners to design a programme that would accelerate relationship-building and embed a shared language across the team.
“We brought together a highly diverse group of individuals, and from the outset, we recognised the importance of equipping them with the tools to collaborate effectively. Our aim was to foster rapid understanding and connection, enabling them to build strong relationships and work cohesively toward our shared goals.”
- Jillian Guild, West Midlands Cancer Alliance
The Solution – A Tailored Insights™ Discovery Programme for Healthcare Teams
To address the challenge, Newland Partners developed a multi-layered programme, using Insights™ Discovery to enhance self-awareness, communication, and collaboration.
Key programme elements:
Insights™ Discovery Profiling – Every team member completed a profile, stored on a shared drive for transparency and easy reference.
Buddy System – Staff were paired to review strengths, development areas, and practical strategies for working together effectively.
Small Group Workshops – Facilitated discussions encouraged open dialogue, shared learning, and immediate application of Insights™ principles.
Team Wheel Delivery – Visual mapping of team dynamics helped leaders assign projects strategically and tailor communication approaches.
One-to-One Coaching for Existing Staff – Provided long-standing team members with personalised support to adjust to new structures, responsibilities, and ways of working.
“It was about guiding those who had come from a close-knit team through a period of transition, helping them adapt to a new dynamic and ensuring everyone had the support they needed to begin on equal footing.”
- Jillian Guild
The Impact – Stronger Communication, Collaboration, and Stakeholder Engagement
The programme delivered measurable and lasting benefits:
High Accuracy & Buy-In – Staff described their profiles as highly reflective of their personalities, often sharing them with family and colleagues.
Improved Internal Communication – A shared language and open access to profiles enhanced collaboration across teams.
Better External Relationships – Leaders identified the right people for stakeholder engagement, improving partner trust and effectiveness.
Greater Change Readiness – Coaching provided a safe space for reflection, helping existing staff embrace change and align with organisational priorities.
One participant summed it up:
“This is so accurate I actually feel like my parents have written it.”
Looking Ahead – Embedding a Culture of Self-Awareness
All new starters now complete the Insights™ Discovery process during onboarding.
Plans are in motion for a team development away day to reinforce the learning and deepen cultural integration.
“It’s been a really worthwhile process, and we’re excited to keep embedding it across the organisation.”
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