Our latest Employee Spotlight introduces Jennifer Cunningham. With over 15 years of experience in people development, Jennifer shares her passion for working with people, the importance of Dufrain’s culture and her love for horses.
1. Tell us a little bit about what you do
I have worked in people development for over 15 years, specialising in data and analytics consultancy services. I have played a leading role in people development for a number of consultancies, from start-ups to market leaders, and my experience spans business transformation, change management and post-acquisition integration as well as significant experience in business startups.
I draw on my experience to bring significant knowledge and skills to mentoring and coaching people on a daily basis and enhancing our Dufrain culture. I have created the Dufrain People Coach Development programme, which not only supports our new people coaches but also our more experienced coaches. Our people are what make Dufrain great, so our culture is a key part of our organisation.
2. What is your favourite part of your job?
It’s definitely engaging with people and building a relationship where they trust in me to help support and guide them in their career and personal development journey. It’s an immensely rewarding role. Dufrain recognises that the role of an effective people coach is fundamental to the growth and success of our business and the satisfaction and engagement of our people.
I work with my colleagues to identify their own drives, their teams’ drives, motivations, engagement and satisfaction levels, and career aspirations. In doing so, they too are empowered to deliver and develop in their role to become an exemplary people coach.
3. What does a typical day look like for you?
Mornings are hectic. I am a stepmum to three amazing kids and we also have three very energetic dogs that need a walk before the day starts. I am an early riser so that helps a great deal! Once I have taken care of them all I sit down with a coffee and prepare for the day ahead. I spend most of my days in coaching and mentoring sessions and also developing the collateral needed to support the programme. Every day is varied depending on who I talk to and what support they need.
4. Which company value resonates with you the most?
I think it’s difficult to pinpoint just one that resonates the most, as all five of them do. The company values encompass everything Dufrain does so well and create the culture that we fiercely protect. Together, they all define the spirit in which Dufrain was founded and how we continue on our mission to make a real difference, not only to our clients but also to our people.
5. What would you say has been your most significant achievement whilst working at Dufrain?
There have been so many things to be proud of over the last four years. It doesn’t matter whether it was a large piece of work or a small contribution I made in supporting an individual with their development, every moment was important. That said, to have contributed to the development of Dufrain and the wonderful talent that works here is perhaps my most significant achievement. To be involved in the growth and success of Dufrain and to be a part of people’s journeys is what makes me proud.
6. Who inspires you the most within Dufrain?
There is not one single individual, although there are a number of people that have been a great support and source of inspiration. It’s the collection of so many amazing people with different dynamics and unique skills that all share the drive and motivation to make Dufrain such a successful organisation. It’s our culture and people that are my inspiration.
7. Which work benefit is your favourite and why?
Our HR team has recently reviewed our benefits and introduced some fantastic new ones. I think the enhanced maternity leave is particularly great as it relates to our strong focus on looking after our people. What better way to do that than for us to recognise how important life outside of work is and how important it is that we support it in every way we can? It’s also a very strong message to send out to women interested in joining Dufrain.
8. What’s the best advice you can give to someone who wants to work for Dufrain?
It’s so important to consider what your motivations are and what drives you when looking for a new role. If a people-focused culture, career and development opportunities, fairness, recognition, teamwork, engagement and a strong desire to make a difference are what drive you, then get in touch!
9. What skill do you think everyone should learn?
People skills. Namely, communication, collaboration, trust, empathy, emotional regulation, active listening and problem-solving.
10. What is your favourite thing to do outside of work?
I turned 50 last year and asked myself, “What’s the most unlikely and somewhat dangerous sport that I could do at this age?”. I decided horse riding was right up there, so I took myself off to a stable and have ridden every week since then – sometimes twice a week if my muscles allow. I absolutely love it and have become a competent rider, which I never thought I’d do when I first started. My dream is to own a horse in the future, but that’s still a long way off!
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