In this “Meet n’ Greet” series, we’ll introduce you to some of the incredible people working at xDesign who help us drive our growth and success, every day.
This week, we’re highlighting our chief people officer, Ciji Duncan. Read on to learn about Ciji’s background, her motivation, and her one-word description of xDesign!
1. First things first! What is your role at xDesign and how long have you been with the company?
I am the chief people officer at xDesign and have been with the company for nearly four years.
2. What’s your professional background and what led you here?
When I moved to Edinburgh after I left university, I wasn’t sure exactly what I wanted to do for work. Like a lot of recent graduates, I wanted to explore some options and see where I felt I could fit in and make a difference. After seeing what xDesign offered in terms of culture and benefits, and after meeting a few team members and feeling good about the work environment, I applied for the role of Office Manager, and got it!
The role was the first of its type within the company, which was something that really appealed to me: I was excited by the opportunity (and challenge!) to shape the job in a way that would work for xDesign, and I had the support to do just that from the very beginning. As the company grew, my role transitioned to include Human Resources, and most recently, my role expanded to chief people officer, which means that I help to guide the strategic planning for people within the business, at every point of their journey within the company.
My passion since day one has been to ensure that everyone who works with xDesign is supported, encouraged, and enjoys their experience here, and it’s been incredible to help create and shape those processes over the last four years!
3. What’s involved in your day-to-day role?
My role is mainly about making sure that we offer a great employee experience to everyone that works with us, right from the beginning of their journey here. From their initial call with a member of the Talent Acquisition team, right through an employee's time working with xDesign, I’m involved to help plan, support, and respond to each person’s experience within the company, so no two days are ever the same!
In particular, over the last few years, I’ve helped to design and implement strategic initiatives to prioritise and support the learning, development, and wellbeing of all employees.
4. What’s something you’re passionate about when it comes to your work?
I’m passionate about people!
I work every day toward making xDesign the best possible place to work and grow for all employees. It’s important to me that everyone feels supported, challenged, and appreciated. Creating an environment of professionals that care about their work and each other - and where everyone feels like an equal within the business - is my primary goal, day in, and day out!
5. Describe xDesign in one word.
Collaboration.
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