Amy recently took up the role as Head of Department at the Sample Reception Area (SRA) in the Halo Building, but has been a longstanding member of the organisation.
Amy joined Sonic Healthcare UK after graduating in Biomedical Sciences from Southampton University. Starting as a Medical Laboratory Assistant based at Barnet Hospital, she progressed to become Supervisor and then Deputy Head of Department in their SRA.
Amy’s extensive experience together with her eye for detail and operational skills made her an ideal candidate for her current position.
The SRA, based at the Halo Building, operates 24/7, 365 days a year, and handles over a million samples annually which arrive from many different locations across the TDL and HSL network. The department is also responsible for carrying out rapid PCR testing.
“We are the front door to the whole company. It’s the starting point for a sample’s journey through the system, so getting it right first time in sample reception is crucial to maintain the integrity of the entire diagnostic process.
“It’s a highly pressured environment. We’re responsible for making sure every sample is correctly logged, and sent to the right place in a timely fashion. It’s also important to adhere to turnaround and clearance times - and remember that patient care is at the core of everything we do.”
Managing by Example
“I manage and train a team of over 100 people and want to inspire them and keep them motivated. The company is very supportive in terms of building my management skills through resources like Sonic Learn and Sonic Connect.
“As well as focusing on building my own management skills, I also recognise the importance of developing the team’s skills as a whole and fostering a collaborative work environment. For me, the best way to drive people and drive productivity is to be a good mentor. Productivity will flow if people are happy to come to work every day.
“I think another important factor in leading my team is them knowing that I’ve done the job they’re doing. The work can be repetitive but I understand what they’re going through and it’s up to me to keep everyone motivated and looking to see how we can drive process and operational improvements.”
Looking Ahead
Amy recognises that the demand for diagnostics will continue to grow, as will the volumes to be managed in the SRA.
“I am greatly looking forward to a new Laboratory Information Management System (LIMS) which is due to be implemented in 2025. It will greatly help us - and of course keep us, literally, at the forefront of the organisation!”