Behind the Scenes: Insights from Project Manager Nathalie Combes

As we slowly prepare to say goodbye to Nathalie Combes, our fabulous Project Manager, we’re taking a moment to celebrate all the amazing things she’s achieved with us. Nathalie has been with Studio Lutalica since day one, and her contributions have been nothing short of transformative. Over the past four years, she has been a guiding force, helping us navigate projects with her unique blend of creativity and management prowess. In this interview, Nathalie shares her experiences, insights, and the impact she’s made as she embarks on an exciting new chapter. We’re sad to see her go, but we’re immensely proud of all she’s achieved and grateful for our work together.

Q: Can you tell us a bit about who you are and your role at Studio Lutalica?

Nathalie Combes: Sure! I’m Nathalie, and I use she/her pronouns. I’ve been the project manager at Studio Lutalica for over four years. My role involves overseeing projects from start to finish, managing timelines, teams, and client communications to ensure everything runs smoothly.

I started with a bachelor’s degree in design management and culture, focusing on design and management. Then, I pursued a master’s degree in digital media and critical computing, which covered new technologies and media. I began working at Studio Lutalica while completing my master’s. Before that, I had internships in art galleries and worked at a web agency, focusing on design and project management.

Q: What was it like in the early days of Studio Lutalica?

NC: The early days were filled with excitement and a startup vibe. It was about turning Cecilia’s vision into a reality, learning how to run a business, and figuring out pricing, client communication, and finding the right tools and people. It was a lot of trial and error, but it laid a strong foundation for us.

Q: Do you have a favourite project you’ve worked on?

NC: It’s hard to pick just one because each project has been rewarding in its own way. The enjoyment often comes from the relationships built with clients and the learning experiences gained from each project.

Q: How has working at Studio Lutalica influenced your professional and personal growth?

Nathalie Combes: It’s been transformative. I’ve learned to communicate effectively, multitask and set better boundaries and expectations. Being part of a supportive team has been invaluable, and I’ve grown both professionally and personally.

Q: How do you handle delivering bad news to clients or the team?

NC: Delivering bad news is never enjoyable and I still find it challenging. But I’ve learned that approaching it with kindness and honesty is essential. It’s important to acknowledge the issue at hand, learn from it, and actively think about the next steps to improve the situation. Accepting that things don’t always go as planned is part of the process, and it’s okay to learn from those experiences. It’s also necessary to maintain trust and transparency with both clients and the team.

Q: Is there anything surprising you’ve learned about yourself or your work?

NC: I’ve realised the importance of ensuring everyone is as comfortable as possible, as it leads to better work outcomes. It’s about checking in with both the team and clients to maintain a positive environment. I’ve found that a significant part of project management involves understanding and supporting the emotional and personal needs of those I work with. It’s not just about managing tasks but also about fostering a space where everyone feels valued and heard.

Q: How do you de-stress from the demands of project management?

NC: Taking breaks throughout the day is essential for me, whether it’s enjoying a warm cup of coffee or tea, or stepping away from the screen for a moment. Engaging in physical activities like yoga helps me clear my mind and stay grounded. It’s also crucial to disconnect from work during off-hours to truly recharge, so I can return to work refreshed and ready to tackle new challenges with a clear perspective.

Q: What will you miss about working at Studio Lutalica, and what are you excited to leave behind?

NC: I’m really going to miss the fantastic team and the inclusive atmosphere at Studio Lutalica. It’s been such a rewarding experience learning from diverse projects and working with amazing people. As for what I’m ready to leave behind, I’m looking forward to exploring new opportunities that might offer a different pace and fresh challenges.

Q: What’s next for you?

NC: I’m hoping to find a job that I feel comfortable in over the next few months. I’m still exploring whether I want to stay in project management or try something completely different. For now, I’m open to finding something I enjoy and seeing where it leads me.

Q: I know you speak other languages fluently, are you planning to stay in London, or might you move elsewhere?

NC: For now, I’m happy in London, but I might consider moving elsewhere in Europe or even further afield in the future. It’s something I’ll decide as opportunities arise.

Q: Is there anything else you’d like to share about your time at Studio Lutalica?

NC: I’ve enjoyed working with a team that shares common interests and values. It’s been a great environment for collaboration and growth, and I’m grateful for the experiences and connections I’ve made here.

Q: Finally, what advice would you give to someone applying for the project manager position at Studio Lutalica?

NC: Our team is incredible, and the role offers a lot of growth opportunities. It’s important to manage your workload efficiently, be open to learning, and embrace the collaborative environment.

Clients should be assured that Nathalie will be staying with us until we’ve found a wonderful new project manager to join our team. If you’re interested in Nathalie’s role, please fill out an application before February 2nd. They’re big shoes to fill, but we’re excited to welcome someone who can continue to drive our mission forward with passion and dedication.