Feedback: May 2024

Q: For your type of business, what are the most important physical attributes of your workplace, and why?

Chloe Conklin

Manager of Community Programs
Optum – Arizona
Sector: Healthcare

The physical space at our six, Valley-wide Optum Community Centers is intentionally designed for our 55+ community members to enjoy at no cost, heightening their physical activity and intellectual stimulation while providing emotional support and social connection.

Our living room, where people enter, is the hub of each center’s space, providing immediate access to friends and activities. Our front desk is strategically off to the side so as not to obstruct the instant, welcoming vibe. The fitness room is purposefully designed with floor-to-ceiling windows so that participants can see others just like them while allowing our certified personal trainers to always have a clear line of sight into that space. Just off the living room is our multipurpose room, designed with specialized exercise flooring with shock absorption for group fitness classes. A ceiling-mounted projector, retractable screen and surround sound augment the multipurpose room’s utility. For Optum Medical Network members, each community center features a medical clinic just off the living room area that provides annual wellness visit examinations and health screenings.

Chloe Conklin is manager of Community Programs for Optum – Arizona. She is responsible for overseeing six Optum Community Centers in the Valley and one in Tucson, along with build-out of new centers coming online. 

Chris Kearney

President and Chief Information Officer
TruWest Credit Union
Sector: Financial

The design process for TruWest® Credit Union’s new headquarters was meticulously planned and implemented. Surveys were conducted amongst employees to understand their priorities for the workplace. Their insights were incorporated into every aspect of our new facility. These features include open collaboration areas, ample natural lighting, covered parking suitable for Arizona’s climate, and technology-enabled conference rooms that support hybrid teams.

Spanning more than 26,000 square feet, our new headquarters boasts more than 20 offices, 60 workspaces, a large multi-purpose space, and a full coffee bar in our welcome area. Every detail, from the art and furniture to the overall design and graphics, was dreamed up by TruWest employees with assistance from our design partners to reflect TruWest Credit Union’s rich history, diverse workforce and unwavering dedication to community service.

We take immense pride in our new facility and deeply appreciate our employees’ unwavering dedication in bringing the dream to reality. Their efforts have transformed it into a space poised for long-term growth and enjoyment.

Chris Kearney serves as president and chief information officer at TruWest Credit Union in Tempe, Arizona, overseeing Technology, Lending, Human Resources, Risk Management, and Facilities for the $1.8-billion credit union. Holding a Bachelor of Science and MBA from Arizona State University, he brings more than 20 years of credit union expertise and a background in consulting. Passionate about leading organizations through change, Kearney believes in connecting people and technology to drive exceptional business outcomes.

Jennifer Understahl

Partner
Perkins Coie
Sector: Law

It is especially important in the post-COVID era to have a space where people want to be — a space that brings our attorneys back to the office. Given the availability and ease of remote work, especially for national law firms where many of their clients are working remotely or hybrid or where clients are located all across the country, it is important for the office to be a space that is not only functional but that adds value for the individual.

It should be technologically up to date; visually inspiring, allow for easy and natural collaboration; located near clients, restaurants and other vibrant activities that are easily accessible after work or for events; and have amenities and design that facilitate wellness.

Our new space has large windows that let in the natural light as well as the views of Camelback Mountain and it also displays a colorful, inspiring and extensive art collection from the former Suzanne Brown Gallery in Scottsdale, which showcased the rich cultural tapestry of Arizona and honors the Native American influence in the region. The art and light combined with light flooring and colorful furniture make the space feel welcoming and fresh. There are also patios where we can step out and take a moment to enjoy the air and views. These design and decorative features feel lush (the art is spectacular and up close at every turn) and yet welcoming.

The kitchen and other collaborative spaces are designed for greater interaction when grabbing a coffee or snack as well (including by having an open kitchen design connected to seating areas). This allows for greater social connection when in the office and a feeling of connectedness. The glass windows in the offices also allow for more waves, acknowledgments, and interactions.

The office also features a meditation and wellness room and a working mother’s room as well as outdoor collaborative and event spaces.

Finally, the central location and amenities at the Esplanade allow for greater ability to “run into” clients and other colleagues as well as give easy access to restaurants for meetings and celebrations.

Jennifer Understahl is a real estate partner in the law firm Perkins Coie, practicing in its Phoenix office. She negotiates, strategizes and collaborates with clients to close sophisticated commercial real estate transactions across the United States and internationally. Understahl focuses on helping large corporations navigate their owned and leased real estate portfolios, commercial leasing, real estate finance, including new loans and workouts of existing loans; improved commercial property sales and acquisitions; and joint ventures.