Making good endings with dsm-firmenich
DSM and Firmenich, two global leaders in science-driven and innovation-led industries, merged to create a powerhouse in nutrition, health, and beauty. The combined organisation brings together expertise in biotech, nutrition, and fragrances, serving a diverse range of industries while aiming for sustainability and human-centric solutions. Operating at the intersection of science and creativity, dsm-firmenich is committed to solving some of the world’s most pressing challenges.
Project Overview
In late 2024, dsm-firmenich faced a significant organisational transition involving a senior leader’s departure and the redistribution of team members across various roles. The challenge was to create a thoughtful and emotionally resonant closure for this team, balancing acknowledgment of their shared journey with inspiration for the future. Ben Wickham & Co. was brought in to design and facilitate this process, leveraging their expertise in systemic change and storytelling.
Goals and Objectives
The key objectives of the intervention were:
Acknowledgment: Recognise individual and collective contributions within the team.
Closure: Facilitate a positive and heartfelt ending, enabling team members to transition smoothly.
Future Orientation: Provide tools and inspiration to navigate upcoming changes with creativity and resilience.
Methodology
The intervention was built around William Bridges’s model of change, which outlines three critical phases:
Ending, Losing, and Letting Go: Acknowledging the emotional impact of change.
The Neutral Zone: Navigating the uncertainty and fostering creativity.
The New Beginning: Embracing change with energy and purpose.
The process was delivered through two key components:
An Online Event
A 90-minute virtual session designed to reflect on the past, acknowledge the transition, and inspire creativity.
Activities included breakout discussions, reflections on personal and team learnings, and the introduction of tools for navigating change.
A Physical Gift Box
A bespoke box was sent to each participant, containing curated items symbolising care, creativity, and resilience.
The Gift Box
Each box served as a toolkit for navigating change, with items including:
Aesop Departure Kit: A reminder to practice self-care during transitions.
Leuchtturm1917 Bullet Journal: A space for creative exploration and reflection.
Caran d’Ache Coloured Pencils: Tools for creative expression during uncertain times.
A 15-Minute Hourglass: Symbolising the importance of pausing and taking time.
A Personal Letter: A heartfelt acknowledgement of each individual’s contributions.
Session Highlights
The session was designed to balance emotional depth with creative inspiration:
Acknowledging Loss: Participants reflected on what they would miss and shared their thoughts in small groups.
Learning from the Journey: Discussions highlighted lessons learned from teammates, fostering a sense of closure and gratitude.
Looking Forward: The opening of the gift boxes marked a symbolic transition, equipping participants with tools and encouragement for their next chapter.
Impact and Takeaways
The initiative was a resounding success, with participants expressing gratitude for the meaningful and personal approach. Individual takeaways included:
Acknowledgement of their roles within the team.
A sense of closure and readiness for new beginnings.
Practical tools and inspiration for navigating future challenges.
Conclusion
This case study highlights the power of combining creativity, systemic thinking, and storytelling to navigate organisational transitions. By focusing on the human aspects of change, Ben Wickham & Co. enabled dsm-firmenich to turn an ending into an opportunity for growth and innovation.
Execution of the packaging: Rob Hoogeveen
