In Dynamic Duos, Mumbrella each week asks two colleagues with a professional and personal affiliation to share with readers the importance of workplace relationships in an increasingly hybridised world of work.

Alice Suter:

A mutual friend introduced Jen and I back in 2012. Jen had moved Think HQ into its first real office space, and I was searching for my first real PR gig post-uni.

While I had an excellent academic record, I was fairly unworldly and a bit rough around the edges. Apparently, I described myself as “desperate” in my job interview, but Jen was still willing to take a chance on me!

You could say it worked out. For the past 13 years, I’ve worked alongside Jen as she’s led Think HQ from a team of four, to more than 100 — and counting.

Our close, longstanding relationship has given me a front-row seat and first-hand insights into the inner workings of her boundary-pushing business. I’ve seen the constant pressure that comes with supporting the livelihoods of a fast-growing team, and I’m in awe of Jen’s ability to front up as our fearless leader, day in, day out — always innovating, always thinking about the next move.

Our complementary work styles make us a great team, especially on new business pitches. I focus on the details; Jen sees the big picture and is the clear head that keeps things moving.

The incredible trust we’ve built over our 13-year partnership means we can arrive at the best solution to a brief or challenge with respect for each other’s ideas, and without any hurt feelings.

Before we met, our mutual friend described Jen as ‘tough, but very fair’, and that’s true. She’s determined, astute and very pragmatic. She values hard work and honesty.........

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