We caught up with Marco Murru, quality partner for the North division.
Marco has worked at Moorfields for five years, driving the quality agenda at the trust.
Marco is looking forward to starting his secondment with the service improvement team, leading the Certificate of Vision Impairment (CVI) project for the trust.
In the workplace, a sincere smile and a word of appreciation make me happy. Working as a team and learning from others also contribute to my happiness.
What is the best piece of advice you’ve been given and how has this helped you?
The best advice I ever got is to just be yourself.
It's made a huge difference in my life. I used to hide behind what people expected of me, trying to be someone I'm not just to fit in. But embracing who I truly am has been a game-changer. It's taught me that being genuine and true to myself helps me connect with people on a real level. It gives me the confidence to pursue my passions without worrying about what others think.
It is a continuous reflecting, adjustment and learning process.
When you’re not working what do you like to do?
Outside of work, I enjoy singing. I'm a member of the West End musical choir and recently participated in a small ensemble for "Bat Boy the Musical" at the London Palladium.
I also spent a long weekend in Disneyland Paris to sing on stage for the opening of the Christmas season. Additionally, I regularly do yoga and pilates, and I love how they make me feel good both physically and mentally.
What makes you happy?
In my personal life, traveling is my passion, and discovering different cultures and traditions brings me joy. Food is another source of happiness for me, which is why I often find myself talking about it
Kindness is one of our values. What does this mean to you and how do you strive for it in your everyday working life? Can you give an example of how you have been kind?
Kindness is crucial in both my personal and professional life.
In the workplace, it means creating a positive, supportive environment where colleagues feel valued. I demonstrate kindness through smiling, sincerely asking 'how are you,' giving honest compliments, checking in on colleagues, and continuously thanking them for their efforts without taking anything for granted.
How do you personally try and create a better work/life balance? Do you have any top tips to share with staff?
I realised the importance of setting boundaries to maintain a healthier work/life balance. Sticking to specific work hours has been crucial in preventing burnout and maintaining a sense of control over my time.
I have regular breaks and make a conscious effort to step away from my desk and refrain from eating meals in the office. During lunch breaks, I prioritise spending time with colleagues, recognising the value of building relationships within the workplace.
My top tip is to cultivate hobbies outside of work as, in my experience, it has proven to be a vital aspect of my life.
How do you support our Greener NHS ambitions by working in ways which have positive social and environmental impacts, and reduce greenhouse gas emissions from travel, energy use and waste? (in your personal or work life)
I integrate sustainable practices into my personal and professional life. I drive a fully electric car, avoid single-use items, choose eco-friendly products, and buy only seasonal UK-grown fruit and veg. I only drink from a filtered tap water system with compostable filters and buy only coffee pods that are fully compostable.
Do you have a pet? If so, please could you share a photo and a little bit about them? How long have you had this pet for?
I don't have any pets, but I do have a friendly squirrel who comes every day to my garden. It's become a habit now, as the little fellow knocks on the windows and door to demand some nuts or pumpkin seeds. This friendly squirrel has been brightening my mornings for the past four months.
What would your colleagues be surprised to discover about you?
My colleagues might be surprised to find out that I started working when I was just 15, during weekends and school holidays.
Since then, I've had a bunch of different jobs in numerous different areas. I've done things like digital advertising, being a dance instructor, clothing store manager, school tutor, bar manager and even worked in finance. It's given me a lot of different skills and experiences.