Reinventing work structures with Sarah Goss

We loved the designer cocoon chairs and “cone of silence” telephone booth amongst this light-filled, waterfront office. Perched in a cluster of electric blue designer chairs, we chatted to Sarah about her career journey at Ericsson, which has spanned for over a decade. When asked what had kept her there for so long, she replied as if sharing a secret with us: “Everybody does here”. Sarah spoke about a company language of family and community along with an openness to rethink traditional working structure, “I think its a Scandinavian thing,” she added.

After having her first child, Sarah and another colleague pioneered a job sharing arrangement where they held joint accountability for a senior leadership role. Sarah and her colleague later received recognition as one of Australia’s Top 5 Powerful Part-Timers. Despite this, Sarah was very modest when asked about her success and instead explained to us her passion for developing other people.

We asked Sarah her thoughts about her role at Ericsson, read her answers below.

What do you love most about working as Head of Strategy & Innovation and Ericsson?

I love the forward-looking nature of my role and the focus on seeing possibilities. I enjoy how it allows me to be a shaper, of thoughts, of organisations, and of markets.

What does it mean to work in innovation?

Working in innovation involves re-imagining the world and operating in a culture of ambiguity, curiosity, insight, imagination, collaboration, experimentation and sometimes messy inconsistencies - it's great!

What have you learned about taking risks?

Taking risks is essential for you and your business.

Learning, growth and the building of confidence only occurs in a state of discomfort. It's about acting with integrity. boldness, and embracing the possibility of failure.

What has been your greatest challenge?

Finding my footing in my career and identity at work after kids.

As a female, mixed-race, part-time employee and mother, I have been tested most in facing and speaking out about inequality, unconscious bias, and challenging traditional notions of work and job design.

What's been your career highlight at Ericsson?

Whenever I've been in my 'genius zone' - the place where I can combine my talents with my greatest passions. The best times in my career are when I'm in this state of 'flow', performing at a high level with a strong sense of purpose and buzzing amounts of energy.

What are 3 tips you would give to anyone wanting to work in your industry?

1. Be yourself. We are all at our best when we are being our authentic selves.
2. 'The future is in the flanks." Emerging trends in your peripheral vision hold the key to opportunity and growth.
3. Your differentiators in this age of digital disruption are your digital literacy, critical thinking, creativity, and emotional and cultural intelligence.