A Meaningful Exchange

Following their time on the Forward Institute Exchange, Gail Jackson, CEO of Solving Kids Cancer & Kevin Doyle, Head of Ground Operations Planning, Policy & Standards at EasyJet reflected on what they took from their time on the programme and the long-lasting impact it’s had.

What impact has the Exchange had on you as a leader?

Gail: The Exchange was an extraordinary opportunity to be matched with someone from a different sector and experience, the unpredictability of who I’d be paired with. I think Kevin and I were fortunate in our pairing—it set the foundation for a deeply meaningful relationship that gave us the best possible Exchange experience. Coming from two vastly different worlds, we had so much to learn from each other. I remember being captivated by the airline industry; getting the full experience, (including a tour of the cockpit!), was not only exciting but incredibly eye-opening. Engaging with the corporate world from a fresh perspective reminded me that, as someone in the social sector, our conversations with corporate partners sometimes don’t go as deeply as they could. This experience allowed me to reshape my approach and build genuine, person-to-person connections. That shift in mindset has undoubtedly changed the way I now work and collaborate.

One of the most impactful elements was the chance to provide each other with leadership feedback as an unbiased observer. It’s been a lasting benefit. Having someone observe my leadership helped me realise that showing up authentically encourages others to be equally open and vulnerable, making it easier to build trust and rapport. Kevin and I continue to act as sounding boards for each other and occasionally support one another on leadership challenges. Having an external perspective helps create a safe and enriching space where we both grow.

Kevin: I remember the anticipation of meeting our learning partners, hoping to be paired with a charity that would open my eyes to a world entirely different from the private sector. Stepping into that new environment not only broadened my perspective but also offered clarity on the everyday work challenges I face. Spending time with Gail and her team and witnessing the unique challenges they address has changed my approach to leadership. I now see problems from a big-picture perspective, which has made it easier to identify what’s truly important. Working alongside an organisation that addresses critical issues, like children’s cancer, has impacted my leadership in a profound way. I feel I’ve become a more empathetic leader, and I’m striving to carry that ethos forward with my team.

What impact has the Exchange had on your organisation?

Gail: I think our time on the Exchange was so powerful because it’s created long-lasting, tangible benefits for our organisation and, most importantly, for the children with cancer that we support. EasyJet became one of two sponsors for our recent Goodwood British Racing event, and the other sponsor, DHL, was introduced to us through Kevin. This collaboration underscored how powerful relationships can be: Kevin brought in a new sponsor, giving them a chance to see our charity in action at the event. This direct involvement helped us build an authentic rapport with them, and because of that positive experience, we plan to work together in the future.

Kevin: My involvement as a volunteer for Solving Kids Cancer and my role as a sponsor for the Goodwood British Racing event has been the most rewarding aspect of the entire Exchange. Inviting some of my team members from EasyJet to attend these charity events was also meaningful, as it allowed them to see first-hand the impact of the charity’s work. This experience has helped our team understand why the partnership with Gail’s organisation is so impactful. It’s been an inspiring reminder of the potential we have as leaders and organisations to create change and the value that comes from nurturing cross-sectoral connections.