Last week, we brought our FSP colleagues together at the stunning Newbury Racecourse for Unity 2025, our annual day dedicated to people and culture – our collective opportunity to pause, reflect and reconnect. With colleagues joining us from across the UK and Spain, the day was a powerful reminder of the strength and spirit of our people.
- Creating Space for Real Conversations:
The day began with a warm welcome from our CEO, Simon Grosse, who set the tone with a reminder of why Unity exists: to connect meaningfully, step away from the day-to-day, and reflect on the experiences that shape us, individually and collectively.
We then moved into two panel discussions, each focused on lived experience and the diversity of thought and identity across FSP.
Our first panel centred on neurodivergence in the workplace, where colleagues courageously shared how their unique characteristics and neurological profiles shape their identity, communication and wellbeing. These personal insights offered an opportunity to learn how we can create environments where everyone can thrive, not by expecting sameness, but by valuing difference.
The second panel, “Women in Business”, brought together four colleagues to explore their career paths, cultural backgrounds, and the complexity of balancing ambitious roles with life outside of work. The discussion was honest, thoughtful, and energising, tackling questions of inclusion, allyship, and what real progress in the workplace should look like.
We’re especially grateful to our panellists for their openness and generosity in sharing their stories. These conversations are not always easy, and their impact was felt throughout the day.
- Personal Stories and Deep Reflection
Later in the morning, Simon and Pete Grosse joined us for a fireside chat, reflecting on Simon’s early personal and professional journey and the experiences that shaped his path to FSP. This was followed by a deeply moving talk from Simba, whose story of identity and resilience was both powerful and personal. His words invited us to think deeply about the value of staying true to who we are, and supporting others to do the same.
- Exploring Mindset with the Chimp Management Team
In the afternoon, we revisited the Chimp Model by Professor Steve Peters, an established framework that helps us better understand neuroscience and how emotion and mindset shape our behaviour and performance. The Chimp Management team delivered an engaging and practical session that helped us reflect on our own inner drivers, reactions, and choices.
Small breakout groups, led by FSP colleagues, gave everyone the chance to explore real-life scenarios using the model and apply the insights to both work and personal challenges. We closed the session with shared reflections and key takeaways we can carry forward into our daily lives and teams.
- Finishing the Day Together
No FSP Unity day would be complete without time to unwind and celebrate. With sunshine on our side, we wrapped up with a relaxed BBQ on the lawn and live music from the talented @lilyandtilly, a joyful close to a meaningful day.
- Looking Ahead
Unity is more than a company event. It’s a deliberate moment to stop, connect, and remind ourselves what matters: the people around us, the perspectives we bring and the kind of workplace we want to build together.
As always, thank you to everyone who took part, whether by sharing their story, listening with care, or showing up fully. We’re proud of the space we created, and even more excited to continue these conversations with our FSP India team, who will be hosting their own FSP Unity Day next.