Moira Westwood
Departmental Administrator
Department of Psychiatry
Tell us a bit about your role
As Departmental Administrator, I manage the day-to-day operations of the department, and work closely with the Head of Department on strategic planning and financial management/sustainability.
I joined the University in 2002, and have progressed through a variety of professional services roles in 8 different departments within the Medical Sciences Division.
I am one of 16 key lead administrators in the Medical Sciences Division and I enjoy working closely with my divisional colleagues. The role has a wide scope of responsibilities and so the ability to seek support from these colleagues and sharing of good practice is very valuable.
What is the most meaningful aspect of your work?
The most meaningful aspect of my work is facilitating and enabling researchers to carry out their world-class research. Being able to contribute to health research in this way is hugely rewarding. I enjoy helping people and my role allows me to have a good overview and understanding of all aspects of the department, how it functions and how people can get the best out of our teams to support and help progress their work.
Can you tell us about something you've done, contributed to that you're most proud of?
Preparing the Department of Psychiatry’s Athena SWAN renewal application was a true team effort, and I was immensely proud to be part of this and to contribute to change in the Department as part of this programme of work. I’ve been particularly involved in establishing a Departmental Professional and Support Staff Working Group and running a number of events to support the personal and professional development of my colleagues.
What changes would you most like to see in the Medical Sciences in the next 100 years?
Good progress has been made in increasing the number of women in senior roles and Athena SWAN has served as a driving force for this change. I would like to see further progress to address inequality in all underrepresented groups in both Research and Professional and Support Staff roles. I feel that a diverse and inclusive work environment, where everyone has the opportunity to thrive, will bring immeasurable benefits for workplace happiness, productivity and outputs.