Behind the Scenes with Lisa Widdowson

Behind the Scenes with Lisa Widdowson

Lisa

Let’s take a look behind the scenes with our own Lisa Widdowson. Lisa , a respected colleague within the Operations Team here at Granby, is known for her vibrant personality and dedication, both at work and home. We thought it was high time we all got to know her just that little bit better!

Professional Development and Time Study

Lisa’s dedication to her role at Granby is evident in her pursuit of professional development. Lisa was part of the inaugural cohort for our Stepping Stones program, training the next generation of Granby leaders.

The next generation of leaders

And earlier this year, she attended a two-week course on Time and Motion with Scott-Grant of Manchester. This course was a new experience for Lisa, offering her a fresh perspective on her work.

Benefits of watching the clock

Time Study, as defined by Scott-Grant, is a technique of work measurement that requires a high degree of concentration and expertise. It focuses on improving productivity by organising work efficiently. Lisa found the course to be an invaluable opportunity to engage with case studies and interact with other delegates, enhancing her understanding of effective time management.

Away from the day job

Away from Granby, Lisa shares her life with her husband, Colin, affectionately known as “impatient Colin,” and her 19-year-old daughter, Millie. Lisa and Colin’s love story began 11 years ago, leading to marriage just over a year after they moved in together. Millie, a university student aspiring to join the police force, is the pride of Lisa’s life. Despite her academic pursuits, Millie enjoys the comforts of home, and Lisa humorously notes that she might not be moving out anytime soon.

Culinary Preferences… and Phobias

While Lisa doesn’t consider herself a foodie, she has a soft spot for a good lasagne, though she prefers it not to be home-cooked due to her aversion to the messiness of cooking. On the flip side, coriander is a definite no-go for her.

Her mornings are incomplete without a strong black coffee, a ritual that kickstarts her day. As Lisa grows older, she admits to becoming more of a softie, with a long list of phobias, flying being the most prominent. Despite this fear, she has bravely booked a trip to the Caribbean, where she plans to swim with stingrays, marking a significant milestone on her bucket list.

Exciting challenges

Weekend Activities and Achievements

Lisa cherishes her weekends, often starting with a leisurely morning in bed, free from the constraints of an alarm clock. Once she’s had her coffee, she becomes a whirlwind of activity, often heading out for a walk to enjoy the outdoors. Her biggest achievement, she proudly states, is her daughter Millie, who is the first in their family to attend university. Lisa’s love for her job at Granby is fuelled by the people she works with, and she values the camaraderie and teamwork that define her professional environment.

Hobbies and Interests

An outdoor enthusiast, Lisa enjoys wild swimming and walking, always seeking new challenges to conquer each year. From participating in events like Tough Mudder to the Great North Swim, she is constantly pushing her limits.

Lisa and Team Granby celebrate after the Tough Mudder course

Lisa is already gearing up for next year’s swim, a testament to her commitment to staying active. Her love for music is evident in her fondness for Smooth Radio and anything with a good beat that she can dance to. Even if she admits she’s not the best dancer. Her most memorable concert experience was seeing Ed Sheeran. This was actually a surprise favourite since it was her daughter Millie who was the fan!

Daughter’s favourite – and now Lisa’s!

Community Involvement and Future Aspirations

Outside of work, Lisa is committed to giving back to the community. She has raised funds for the East Lancashire Hospice through charity swims in the Lake District. Just one way of showcasing her dedication to making a positive impact. Looking ahead, Lisa is investing in her future and that of Granby by continuously seeking opportunities for growth and learning. Her recent course on Time and Motion is just one example of her proactive approach to personal and professional development.

Lisa at one of her happy places – Windermere

Thanks for taking this look behind the scenes with Lisa Widdowson! Lisa is a dynamic individual who balances her personal life, professional commitments, and community involvement with grace and enthusiasm. Her journey is a testament to her resilience, passion, and unwavering dedication to making the most of every opportunity that comes her way.