Meet & Greet: Caitlyn Feming, Internal Communications Manager at Superdrug

Caitlyn Feming, Internal Communications Manager at Superdrug, spoke to myGwork about the challenging aspects of managing people, and the attributes to look for in new recruits.

Can you tell us a bit about your career journey to date?

I started my career on the Future Leadership Graduate Scheme at Pfizer. I worked in both digital and brand marketing for Anti-infective medications, organising conferences and creating marketing materials for Healthcare Professionals. I then took on a role as a Primary Care sales representative for anti-coagulation and smoking cessation medications. That’s when the COVID pandemic hit and it was all hands on deck! I joined the colleague engagement team to support with the internal communications around Pfizer’s vaccine production. I really enjoyed my time in the team and discovered my passion for communications. I sadly got made redundant in my role and that’s when I found the position as Internal Communications Manager at Superdrug, where I’ve been for the past 4 years. In my role I support the business to communicate key people, commercial and strategic messages to our employees across the UK. No day is the same and there are a lot of spinning plates, but it’s great to be able to work closely with our exec and a wide range of teams.

What's the most challenging aspect of managing people right now?

I think the hardest aspect of managing people right now is the difference in working styles and attitudes between different generations. Sometimes it can be difficult to align the wants of my team with the needs of the business, but I try to provide as much flexibility as possible, to make sure work is accessible for all.

What attributes do you look for in new recruits and why?

The willingnesss to learn and genuine interest in the role. When someone walks into that interview room or joins the online call, I can often tell if they’re a Good fit in the first few minutes. First impressions really do count! I do also believe that you don’t necessarily need all of the skills liste don the job description to be a fit for the role. People can gain a lot when given an opportunity outside of their comfort zone.

How important is LGBTQ+ inclusion in the workplace for you personally?

Extremelly important! I wouldn’t want to work for an organisation that didn’t focus on inclusión of LGBTQ+ People.

What's your favourite inclusion campaign to date and why?

I loved the ‘United We Stand’ Campaign that Unilever did in collboration with Switchboard and Superdrug. They created a series of impactful videos where individuals in the community shared thier stories. It was authentic, Thought provoking and emotional.

How do you encourage staff to have a worklife balance, especially with the increase in remote/hybrid working?

I try to set an example for my team, always schedulling in time for lunch and making sure that when I switch off at the end of the day, I’m fully switched off. I am also flexible with my team when they need to take time out for personal appointments, or want to flex thier day to fit in with their lifestyle. You have to practice what you preach!

What's the biggest highlight of your career to date and why?

I think for me, the biggest highlight has been running our live Head Office connetct events. It was amazing to have the opportunity to be on stage and present part of the sesión for our teams. I enjoy the challenge of organising events that engage, excite and bring joy to people.

What podcast series are you listening to right now for your career development?

I’m not currently listening to any podcast series, but I’m open to recommendations! We do have our own Superdrug Series called ‘The People Edit’ podcast which is on Spotify… take a listen!

Are there any DE&I-related podcast series you would recommend?

'The Log Books’ from Switchboard are absolutely fantastic. Really moving stories that highlight why our fight for LGBTQ+ inclusión is more important than ever.

What was the last book you read (fiction/non-fiction)? Any interesting take-aways and would you recommend it to fellow leaders? Why?

The last book I read was ‘Outrageous’ by Paul Baker, which told the story of Section 28 and the battle for LGBTQ+ education. I learnt so much about the history of the act, the incredible people who continued the fight against it and the profound impact the section had on the lives of the community. I’d really recomed it to anyone! It serves as a great reminder as to why we need to continue the fight for rights for all parts of the community.

What was your last holiday destination and where do you plan to visit next?

My last holiday was skiing in Les Arcs and it was incredible! For my next holiday I’m going to Lyon for a long weekend of wine tasting.

What do you do to relax at the end of a hard working day?

I love to run! Although I prefer to run in the mornings to set me up for a hard working day. I’ve recently started roller skating, but I’m not sure I find that very relaxing!