A London-based pharmaceutical organization set out to redefine the workplace experience as it prepared to open a new, state-of-the-art headquarters. The move represented a cultural shift toward prioritizing employee well-being, supporting innovation and fostering stronger community engagement. In an industry marked by constant evolution and rising competition for talent, the goal of the headquarters relocation was to create a space where employees could thrive and feel empowered to spark the next major medical breakthrough.
The vision for the new HQ was clear: encourage employees to return regularly and willingly, foster a workplace culture rooted in care and connection, and make work-life balance a daily, lived experience through meaningful services. The organization also aspired to build a deeper connection with the local London borough, enriching both the internal employee community and its external environment
Circles partnered with the organization to bring this vision to life through a phased, “test and optimize” rollout, ensuring that every touchpoint would evolve based on employee feedback and expectations. A 360° employee experience was designed and implemented that elevated every aspect of daily life at the new headquarters:
The full program included:
The move to the new headquarters transformed a traditional workplace relocation into a cultural relaunch where employees felt supported, inspired and excited to return.
Key outcomes included:
As a result, the new HQ is no longer just a workplace, it’s a destination of choice, supporting innovation, culture, and retention. The organization has successfully:
“Comingto the new HQ doesn’t feel like coming to work. It feels like entering a placewhere I’m valued — and where I want to be.”
— Employee