Join us as we explore the remarkable evolution of understanding through the eyes of Reuben, who has grown alongside his mum, Tineke Brooks’, career at Inzpire.
When we first met Reuben at age four, his observations about his mum's workplace captivated us all. With that delightful candidness unique to children, he painted Inzpire as a magical realm of possibilities - a place where work seemed more like adventure than an obligation.
Fast forward to today; Reuben is now twelve, with deeper insights and a more nuanced worldview. Yet remarkably, his enthusiasm for his mother's professional home hasn't waned - if anything, it's matured.
What makes this story particularly compelling isn't just Reuben's personal growth, but how his perception of Inzpire has evolved in parallel. His journey offers us a glimpse into how a company's culture and values can transcend the workplace to touch family life.
As we revisit those same questions we posed eight years ago, we'll witness the transformation of childhood curiosity into pre-teen wisdom.
Tineke: So Reuben, why did Mumma leave the RAF?
Reuben: Mumma left the RAF because she wanted to work at Inzpire instead. She kept hearing all these positive things from other people who worked there and thought it sounded interesting. She was ready for a new challenge after being in the Air Force for so long. She explained to me that Inzpire is smaller and more like a family, and it offers more flexibility. The main reason I think she left is because now she can work from home more often and be around for family ‘stuff’, as well as work.
I couldn’t have answered this better myself. I wanted to remain within a setting that aligned with my military background and values. Inzpire provides me with the perfect balance, allowing me to transition into a fulfilling and stimulating role while still maintaining a connection to military culture. Work life balance also remains a key benefit of working at Inzpire; being able to flex my hours and location around work and home is a significant enabler to my motivation and productivity, not to mention the positive impact on my mental health.
Tineke: What do I do at Inzpire?
Reuben: Mumma works as the Head of the Training Services Division (TSD), which is a division she built with Claire. She leads a team of people who evaluate what different military organisations need to be trained in. She's explained to me that they look at what skills people in the military already have and what they need to learn. I think it's quite complex because different parts of the military need different types of training.
Great summary. It’s all about working with our UK MoD partners and customers to thoroughly understand the specific training needs and requirements of their organisations and then designing tailored training solutions to enhance the skills and capabilities of their personnel.
Me: Who do I work with?
Reuben: You work with some very clever people. There’s Claire, who does most of the work, Si, the tech guru whose brain is so advanced he is probably secretly an AI himself, Nick, Mumma’s boss, Dan, Mumma’s previous boss and then your team…
Reuben then goes on to name each member of the TSD team! I am lucky enough to be surrounded by exceptionally talented and supportive people. Whether this is a call for collaboration of minds to meet project timelines, sharing learning experiences or unwavering welfare support. It’s the people that make Inzpire – Inzpire!
Me: What is my favourite thing to do?
Reuben: Heading to the office for a ‘chit chat’ and heading to Costa for lunch.
Clearly what Reuben means here, is if there's one thing I truly enjoy, it's the social aspect of my job at Inzpire. Sure, I take my responsibilities seriously and work hard, but what really motivates me is the opportunity to engage in face-to-face meetings with my colleagues and customers. While virtual communication has many merits, the ability to connect with colleagues in person through casual conversations and shared experiences fosters a stronger sense of camaraderie, trust and collaboration that is essential for a productive and positive work environment.
Me: What am I good at?
Reuben: Being a leader and supporting and helping your team; your team are very important. Mumma is also very good at being organised (just as she is at home) and really understands her training ‘stuff’.
I didn’t pay him, honest! But he is right; my team's wellbeing and professional growth are of utmost importance to me, and I will do all that I can to ensure they have the resources and encouragement they need to thrive. Maintaining my professional skills and knowledge is a top priority to ensure that I can keep up with my highly qualified and talented team.
P.S… a little disappointed that Lego has dropped off here Reuben!
Me: Would Mumma ever do a different job?
Reuben: Only one - Head of Training for Lego HQ.
As our journey down memory lane comes to a close, I find myself reflecting on what truly makes Inzpire extraordinary - not just as a workplace, but as a cornerstone of family life that has withstood the test of time. And yes - I must confess that my love affair with Lego continues!
Eight years on, the camaraderie and family spirit that first drew me to Inzpire haven't simply endured - they've flourished magnificently. Leading TSD has been a privilege that continually reminds me why our "people first" ethos isn't just a slogan, but our lifeblood.
Innovation doesn't just survive - it thrives - all whilst maintaining that precious work-life balance that enables me to be present for moments like these with Reuben.
The Inzpire of tomorrow shines as brilliantly as the day I joined. This remains a place where talent finds its purpose, ambition meets opportunity, and excellence isn't just encouraged - it's woven into our DNA.
I can't help but wonder - what will Reuben's answers look like eight years from now, when he's twenty? Whatever the future holds, I'm certain of one thing: the Inzpire legacy will continue to shape our family's story in ways both profound and lasting.
