“The need to belong and to have a community is very important”
BY MYGWORK, IMAGE BY ALEX BECKETT PHOTOGRAPHY
Jackie Crockford, Vice President of Global Business Services at AstraZeneca, spoke to myGwork about realising her potential, striving to make a meaningful impact and putting effort into fostering inclusivity. A woman who values learning, embracing new experiences, and finding joy in her work, she also discussed her journey within the LGBTQIA community and how it relates to her experiences at AstraZeneca, where diversity is central to innovation.
Raised in a small village in Nottinghamshire, Jackie was encouraged by the adult figures in her life to pursue her full potential from a young age. Her passion for science initially led her to study the immune system – however, a fascination with how businesses operate inspired her to become an accountant. Working in a diverse range of roles from the very beginning of her career, Jackie gained valuable experience in team collaboration, an appreciation for people management and a strong understanding of the factors that contribute to company success.
“I had teachers and parents who encouraged me to aspire without limits,” she explained. “In fact, I was often the one to place limits on myself. But because I had champions who supported and encouraged me, I was able to keep learning, keep making mistakes but keep moving forward.”
After years of working in consulting, Jackie transitioned to working in shared services at pharmaceutical and biotechnology company, AstraZeneca. She recognised the opportunity to apply her experience and knowledge in global companies to drive the scientific potential of the business. Leading a team of around 1,000 people, she helps shape the direction and collaboration necessary to improve the company’s efficiency and support growth.
“My favourite moments always come with my teams. I have been lucky enough to build and work with some fantastic people. When the members of a team can challenge each other, be honest, bring their full selves to the table and deliver something that was not thought possible – that’s what I love.”
Jackie was especially drawn to AstraZeneca due to the company’s inclusive culture and commitment to embracing diversity. During her first interview, she was inspired by a picture of employees at Pride, which immediately symbolised the company’s celebration of equality and acceptance. Upon being hired, she continued the visibly proud representation by wearing a rainbow lanyard on her employee badge, along with many other LGBTQIA employees and allies. Beyond their Pride celebrations, AstraZeneca also empowers inclusivity through LGBTQIA Employee Resource Groups, providing safe spaces for community members and working toward representing their needs within the company.
“The need to belong and to have a community is very important,” she said. “Having safe spaces to relax and just be ourselves is essential. The public gaze and expectations can be exhausting. Sometimes you just want to be accepted without explanation – or education!”
While Jackie hasn’t had many LGBTQIA figures to look up to throughout her career, she has recently found mentors and colleagues within the LGBTQIA community who lead in an inspiring manner. She emphasised the importance of being exposed to diverse role models and celebrating varied versions of success.
“The mentors and figures I have looked up to have been those who lead authentically and bring their vulnerabilities, flaws, brilliance, passion and true selves to work,” she said. “In the last few years, I have found more mentors, peers and colleagues who are leading in this manner, and they are also out members of the LGBTQIA community, which is personally energising but also, hopefully, helpful for those at the start of their career.”
Reflecting on the current challenges faced by the LGBTQIA community, both in the UK and worldwide, Jackie wished to place a spotlight on the increasing threats to LGBTQIA rights. In particular, the consistent hostility faced by the trans community globally. Despite turbulent times, she has maintained a positive outlook looking to the future, hoping for equal treatment in both business and wider society.
“I hope for the future, and for tolerance, acceptance and love to win. I am lucky enough to meet and work with people who stand up and advocate for communities who are discriminated against, even if they are not a part of that community. I have seen amazing acts of allyship that give me hope for a brighter, inclusive, accepting future.”
AstraZeneca is a proud partner of myGwork, the LGBTQ+ Business Community. Find out more about job opportunities at AstraZeneca.
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