Backstage is bustling with activity.
A peek behind the scenes of any successful theatrical production reveals the involvement of an antire crew, each member contributing to some aspect of the show - from set design, to wardrobe, to lighting or sound - without even setting foot on stage. “The administration team is like the backstage crew," compared LORNA KROPF, Assistant Director, Administration. “We work behind the scenes to support IQC faculty members and their research."
Kropf has led IQC’s administration team for nine years. “I was very excited for the opportunity to join a young institute and to be part of its growth,” recalled Kropf. She has guided the administration team through many changes, such as onboarding 17 new faculty members, and coordinating two building moves.
Without taking center stage, Kropf takes pride in the tasks that are fundamental to the operational success of the institute. Her team offers support, including account management and grant proposal preparation, for each faculty member. “Our team aims to provide exceptional service for our researchers so that they can focus on their research and teaching,” said Kropf.
The administration team also supports several committees, plays a lead role in shaping the visitor experience, administers the quantum information graduate program and manages the frontline interactions with all who visit the institute on a daily basis. “We are representing IQC and building a culture of excellence here.”
Looking ahead, Kropf stated that a proactive approach to improving processes and developing tools to streamline administrative tasks will allow the team to continue providing exceptional service. According to Kropf, “The administration team needs to be adaptable to the changing needs of our researchers and the institute as it continues to grow.”
Kropf knows how to navigate change at IQC. “I remember the Lazaridis Centre as a cardboard model, and now this building has come to life,” she said. “This is an exciting place to be. We are supporting world-changing research.” The administration team is ready, backstage, to support the institute moving forward.
