• More connection and mutual understanding in a hybrid working environment.
• A shared view on roles, processes and expectations.
• A structure that supports both daily operations and change efforts.
The Demand & Supply (D&S) team at Astellas was entering a new phase. Following organizational changes and shifts in team composition, the team was looking for greater cohesion, clearer roles and a work structure that better supports both day‑to‑day operations and improvement initiatives. Astellas asked Been to guide the team in strengthening collaboration and formulating a shared ambition.
What we encountered
In the joint sessions, three needs became clearly apparent: more connection and mutual understanding in a hybrid working environment, a shared view on roles, processes and expectations, and a structure that supports both day‑to‑day operations and change initiatives. These insights formed the starting point for a trajectory in which team development, structure and rhythm were central.
“As a team, we have found direction and cohesion again. With the way of working we now shape ourselves, we are more agile, and I am confident that we will continue to change and grow consciously as a team.”
Roel Oosterwijk - Team Lead Demand & Supply
Our approach
1. Joint identity and ambition
During team days, we explored the questions: Who are we as the D&S team, and where do we want to go? This resulted in a shared ambition built around three themes: ownership, visibility and a consistent way of working that contributes to a reliable supply.
2. Insight into drivers and collaboration
Using behavioural‑preference and collaboration tools, team members explored their strengths, pitfalls and team dynamics. This helped them recognise patterns, open up conversations and collaborate more safely and effectively.
3. From ambition to concrete action
The shared ambition was translated into themes with a clear horizon. The team defined the bold steps needed to get into motion.
4. A workable structure for Run & Change
Together, we introduced a dual governance model: run for safeguarding daily operations and change for improvement and development, working in short sprints.
A sustainable foundation for the years ahead
With a shared ambition, stronger mutual connection and a rhythm that makes change manageable, the D&S team has laid a solid foundation to continue contributing to Astellas’ supply chain with focus and agility.
Results
The team restored connection and trust, which led to more open conversations, a better understanding of each other’s drivers and more natural collaboration. A shared future vision gives the team clarity about what it stands for and the value it brings. With a clear Run & Change structure, there is now a healthy balance between operations and development, ensuring that improvements no longer fall through the cracks and that the team consistently works on the highest‑priority initiatives. Leadership and ownership have also become stronger, with both the team lead and team members taking visible responsibility for direction, execution and collaboration.
“In this trajectory, I saw how powerful it is when a team collectively returns to the basics: role clarity, rhythm and connection. Once that foundation was in place, new energy, clarity and agility emerged almost immediately.”
How we supported the creation of a future-proof vision and organizational design for a department of 150 employees within a Dutch regional grid operator.
