The dictionary definition of ‘partnership’ describes a contractual relationship. However, in practice it embodies much more: a mutual interest, a shared commitment, complementary skills and a collaborative spirit, these are the characteristics of the relationships that we strive to cultivate. Our experience shows that robust processes, regular communication, transparency, exchanges of ideas – even disappointments – help to increase our understanding of our clients’ values and ambitions, fostering trust between our teams. The more we understand, the more we can plan and shape projects that deliver results: sometimes beyond expectations, always delivering high-quality results in science.