Top 5 Tips for Successful Collaboration by Sola Idowu, CEO Hexis Lab

At the forefront of cosmetic innovation, Hexis Lab, in partnership with NewChem Technologies, is redefining hair care with a focus on women with Type 3 and Type 4 textured hair. Through a combination of advanced chemistry and artificial intelligence, this collaboration has resulted in the creation of the Layla & Kays shampoo and conditioner line, now available online and across major retailers in India.

Professor Golding, an emeritus professor at Newcastle University with a long history of drug discovery, including the development of a drug for ovarian cancer, has always been drawn to diverse scientific challenges. His collaboration at Newcastle Helix with Sola Idowu, who shares a broad scientific interest, has led to significant advancements in the development of new cosmetic products.

Hexis Lab CEO, Sola Idowu, was inspired to create these products after seeing the challenges his daughter, a national swimmer with textured hair, faced in finding suitable haircare. Here are some of his top tips for successful collaboration.

1.    Prioritise in person meetings: While virtual meetings are convenient, face-to-face interactions build stronger connections and facilitate clearer communication.

2.    Foster mutual respect: Respect each other's expertise and perspectives. Valuing each team member's contributions creates a positive and productive environment.

3.    Align on shared goals and values: Ensure that everyone is working toward the same objectives with a unified vision. This alignment is key to staying motivated and focused.

4.    Leverage complementary skills: Collaborate with people who bring different strengths to the table. Diverse expertise leads to more innovative solutions.

5.    Maintain open and continuous communication: Regularly discuss progress, challenges, and changing priorities. Keeping communication channels open is crucial for navigating long-term collaborations.

These innovative life science businesses based at Newcastle Helix are taking on a starring role in the first of a new series of films all about the Future of Work.

The first focuses on the importance of collaboration.