A Recent Move - Les Mills International
Interview with Jo Cooper, Operations Manager, Les Mills International
How long did you stay at your previous premises?
We had been at Sale Street for four years, and Centre Street for nine years.
How far out did you start looking for a new office premises? Was it long enough?
We had been looking for 12 months, and yes, that gave us the time we required.
What were the key drivers for your move?
Growth in team numbers meant in 2019 we were required to take on the additional office at Sale Street. Although they were in close proximity to each other, working out of the two offices meant our people were, and felt, disconnected. We were looking for that connection piece in one workspace to unite
the team.
How did you determine what your future office should look like? Did looking at other sites help?
It was essential to look at a variety of spaces, although we were very clear on our ‘must haves/would likes’. Team engagement was essential. We met regularly with team representatives, set up workshops, and provided regular updates and opportunities for feedback. Viewing various buildings assisted with providing clarity.
Did the move enable you to change the way you are working?
Yes it did. Our new open-plan environment has allowed for increased engagement. Our amazing tech team took advantage of additional meeting rooms to create a variety of spaces – some specific to requirements and some adaptable to needs. ‘The Hub’ or central kitchen space allows our team to come together in a variety of ways – from ‘all in’ global sessions combining online and in person, to social events, to ‘lunch and learn’ team presentations. The coffee machine is a central meeting spot for light touch conversations that working from home does not accommodate.
Do you provide all team members with a fixed desk? Why or why not?
No. We have a very good online booking system for the meeting rooms and for desks. This was a change for people, however, it is working well and the team has easily adapted. There are plenty of lockers for people to use to suit their needs.
Activity-Based Working (ABW) - fad or fabulous? Why?
Cross-functional teams are in constant motion and evolution. The office layout, with its multitude of collaborative spaces, allows for interactional work to be completed in an effective and engaged manner.
Now that you are occupying the new space, how has the feedback been from your team members? What is the biggest change?
Our people are loving the connection, and if a quiet space is needed there are plenty of options.
What piece of furniture has made the most impact with team members and how they work?
The barista coffee machine in ‘The Hub’ is in constant use, and provides an opportunity for a quick catch up (negating the need for ‘another meeting’). The variety of furniture pieces and collaboration spaces cater to different needs.
What happened to your on-site storage needs? Have they changed? Are you using less paper?
We no longer have a Lundia storage room and we are definitely using less paper. We have moved from five photocopiers to two, although our previous office did have multiple spaces and levels which has contributed to reduced copier needs.
What are some of the things you did right with the fitout?
Technological advancements to meet current and future needs – shout out to our in-house tech team. Consultative process with our people. Using Stack Interiors – they were amazing. Good communication with building owners to ensure expectations were aligned.
What is the one thing you would do differently with the fitout?
Nothing. I enjoyed the process, the challenge, the new learnings, and mainly – I love the new space.
What is the one piece of advice you would give another company looking to move premises?
Communication, collaboration, and engagement with key stakeholders is essential.
