LACDR Strategy Day: Shaping Our Future Together
On March 20, our institute held a highly engaging Strategy Day, bringing together colleagues to discuss key topics for LACDR with respect to governance, team collaboration, and career paths. The day was marked by insightful debates, interactive activities, and opportunities for informal exchange, all set against the backdrop of a beautiful sunny day!
The morning was dedicated to two sessions discussing dilemma’s on governance within the institute and our divisions/centre. As our institute has grown substantially, so have the complexities of managing research and education. Participants discussed the benefits of a centralized governance model, offering clear leadership and structured decision-making processes, against a decentralized model that provides greater autonomy to divisions. We also reflected on the role of Division Chair. Should chairs be leading experts in their fields or should the position rotate to promote shared leadership and diverse perspectives? Participants considered ways to enhance the effectiveness of division leadership while maintaining institutional coherence. Moreover, we discussed our PI model. Should we maintain this system or should we transition toward a more team-oriented approach focusing on research lines? The different discussion tables came to a consensus on the different dilemma’s discussed, which will be worked out further in the upcoming period.
Following a nice lunch on the patio of the teahouse, attendees engaged in an interactive session designed to explore team collaboration. Through role-playing exercises and challenge cards, participants examined how to optimize team potential.
A reflective outdoor walk allowed small groups to discuss diversification of career paths at academia and reflect on the draft advice of the FWN Project group that worked on this topic the past months. During a central sharing session, the reflections about the draft report were exchanged and ideas on how it could be improved to benefit LACDR and our staff best were formulated.
The day ended on a high note with drinks in the sun, fostering informal discussions and strengthening connections within our institute.
Many thanks to all who participated and contributed to shaping the future of our institute!
