Who: GSK and McLaren entered into a joint partnership in 2011 based on a mutual focus on science, innovation and high-tech research. For GSK, McLaren’s British background and work in applied science and technology acts as an inspiration across its own business. In true pit stop manner, McLaren worked with GSK to redevelop the latter’s manufacturing and engineering processes. This shave minutes off the manufacturing change over time, resulting in 50% more efficiency.

Objective: The core of the GSK-McLaren partnership is inspiration. That characteristic is most prevalent in the employee engagement and community development programmes that have stemmed from the partnership. GSK employees have the opportunity to take on the role of a Formula 1 race car driver in a half-car replica simulator or to act as a three-man pit crew. These activities are fun, engaging and inspiring, but they also challenge employees to build teamwork, improve communication and streamline work processes. The existing Scientists and Sport project has also benefitted from the partnership as the nation’s schoolchildren were challenged to improve the performance of a Formula 1 driver. Some kids even grabbed the notice of the McLaren team!

Strategy: “We have very engaging partnerships but this is different. I think we can really capture the imagination of the employees and engage them in a way that is a bit unique. We’re trying to take the lessons from Formula 1 and from McLaren and apply them back into the business,” head of global brand Kerry O’Callaghan says.Rationale