Charles River – Discovery UK (Drug Discovery)

The relationship between Helix and Charles River Early Discovery goes back to 2009.  Following a strategic review at Belgian Biotech Galapagos, succession planning was raised by the Executive Committee as a priority to ensure development of the leaders of the future.  Leadership programmes were commissioned across the Galapagos group in 5 countries.  When Charles River acquired the two Galapagos subsidiaries BioFocus and Argenta in 2014, the programmes continued at the newly-created Early Discovery division.

Solutions

Management, leadership and coaching programmes were developed for managers and those identified as emerging senior leaders, spanning a 15-month period. Programmes were based on the principles of Action Centred Leadership, modules included leading teams, performance management, influencing skills, managing priorities, communication and NLP, commercial skills, and change leadership.  Coaching was scheduled between modules to help individuals deal with their own personal challenges and development goals.

Alongside these leadership programmes, Helix also provides:

• Consultancy and advice at senior management levels
• Support on change programmes
• Short courses for new and junior managers/leaders
• Project leadership training
• Communication skills training
• Recruitment interview skills training
• Help and support in building effective teams

Outcomes

• Improved communication and collaboration across group companies, divisions, and departments.
• Efficiencies realised through closer cross-functional and cross-site working.
• Significant cost savings and strategic advantage generated by project work undertaken on the programmes.
• Individuals benefitted from coaching sessions, increasing confidence and their ability to influence both customers and colleagues.
• Many of the participants on early programmes are now senior managers in the new organisation.