One
www.AspireAsOne.co.uk AspireAsOneTeam @AspireAsOne
ISSUE 10 : JANUARY 2017
The voice of the Aspire Team - Bringing our community together
WHAT’S INSIDE
ASPIRE PLAYERS OF THE MONTH
December ‘16 See page 10 for more on the winners.
READ MORE INSIDE >>>>
AspireAsOne
LOOKING OUT FOR LS
AS THE RECENTLY RENOVATED 100 VICTORIA STREET BECOMES THE NEW CENTRE OF LAND SECURITIES OPERATIONS, THE RESIDENT ASPIRE TEAM ARE ALL FULLY FOCUSED AND READY FOR AN EXCITING ADVENTURE AT HQ. READ MORE INSIDE >>>>
aspire one team
one vision
ONE MESSAGE FROM
The Steering Committee
EvolvingAsOne WORKING AS ‘ONE TEAM’ CAN BE SEEN AS AN OVER-USED CLICHÉ, HOWEVER, THROUGH ASPIRE, I PASSIONATELY BELIEVE THAT LAND SECURITIES AND YOU, THE ASPIRE MEMBERS, ARE CHANGING THE MARKET. I was delighted to be invited onto the Aspire Steering Board and become part of the vision of Land Securities. As Managing Director of CBRE I’m extremely proud of the services we provide to Land Securities and the relationships we have developed. I truly believe that a collaborative approach to service delivery can enhance the user experience within any building and that when all service providers ‘pull in the same direction’ the results can be staggering. Through my work with Aspire over the last twelve months, I have seen the benefits that working together as one team, sharing best practice and supporting charities and the local community, can bring to all involved.
Tony Brearley Managing Director of CBRE
2
www.AspireAsOne.co.uk
AspireAsOneTeam
@AspireAsOne
WE’RE ALL ABOUT YOU BEATING THE COLD THIS WINTER WITH TEMPERATURES PLUMMETING IN RECENT WEEKS, MEMBERS OF THE ASPIRE TEAM AND VISITORS ALIKE HAVE BEEN FEELING THE CHILL.
STRONGER AS ONE After a long process involving extensive discussions and evaluation, it has recently been confirmed that Ultimate Security, NJC and NG Bailey have all had their contracts renewed.
T
his was particularly true for those at the New Street Square buildings, forcing Operations Manager Alistair Reed to make an urgent request for temporary heaters.
All three have shown a fantastic level of team spirit and commitment, not only meeting the standards needed for this renewal but working to exceed them.
Fortunately, NJC operatives Adeniyi Fadiora and Herschel Charles were close at hand to deal with the problem. Answering the request immediately, Adeniyi and Herschel were able to purchase the heater units needed and brought them to 5 and 6 New Street Square, where they were then distributed to where the need was greatest. Both showed great teamwork and efficiency in dealing with the situation as all of this was accomplished within just an hour. Congratulations to them for warming up the rest of the team.
Land Securities Procurement Manager David Payne has been most praiseworthy commenting ‘In particular, we’ve been impressed by their unwavering ability to put the customer experience at the heart of their service’. Congratulations to the three service partners for this fantastic achievement and securing a brighter future for the Aspire team as a whole.
A MARRIAGE OF INTEGRITY
A BRIGHTER FUTURE
NJC RECEIVED A CALL ALERTING THEM TO A WEDDING RING THAT HAD BEEN MISPLACED AT THE MIZUHO BANK BASED AT 30 OLD BAILEY.
THE PICCADILLY LIGHTS, SEEN BY MILLIONS EVERY YEAR, HAS LONG BEEN ONE OF LONDON’S MOST ICONIC LANDMARKS. But these same lights went dark on the 16th January for the first time in decades, marking the beginning of a new era for the team at the Monico Estate.
What made this all the more worrying was that the member of staff’s ring was thought to have been lost in a waste basket, only realising this after the rubbish had been collected for the day. The staff member in question would likely have never seen the ring again, had it not been for the actions of NJC operatives Flavia Fernandez and Paulo Correia. After being contacted by the facilities manager onsite, the two of them quickly arrived on the scene. They then demonstrated remarkable dedication by checking the washrooms and going through all the bags of rubbish that had been collected that day.
Indeed, this is the first, crucial step of the regeneration project for the lights. Set to be completed in autumn, the internationally recognised six advertising screens will be replaced by a single, bigger version, the largest of its kind in Europe. Portfolio Manager Vasiliki Arvaniti commented that this new screen would offer brands ‘pioneering new ways to connect’ with people.
After much searching, their efforts paid off and they eventually found the wedding ring. Portfolio Manager Charles Walden commented that this was a ‘great example of integrity’ and they were praised by the bank staff for the ‘outstanding service’ they provided. It is this combination of integrity and dedication that make Flavia and Paulo such exemplary members of the Aspire team.
But while the lights may be out for now, the Aspire team behind them will be working as hard as ever to keep things at the Monico Estate running. Always ready to adapt their roles to whatever is asked of them, the ‘unsung heroes’ of the Monico Estate, as Operations Manager Chan Pang Chung has commented, are ready for the upcoming changes and will do everything they can to ensure a better, brighter future for the Piccadilly Lights.
www.AspireAsOne.co.uk
AspireAsOneTeam
@AspireAsOne
3
WE’RE ALL ABOUT YOU
100 VICTORIA STREET
The New Heart of Land Securities IN THE CENTRE OF LONDON’S BUSTLING VICTORIA AREA, JUST 10 PACES FROM THE NEW UNDERGROUND ENTRANCE AND FOLLOWING THE RECENT REGENERATION PROJECT, CARDINAL PLACE STANDS AS A GREAT EXAMPLE OF MODERN ARCHITECTURE. ALONG WITH THE BUILDINGS AT 16 PALACE STREET, 100 VICTORIA STREET HAS BECOME THE MAIN BASE FOR LAND SECURITIES. OVER THE LAST FEW MONTHS THE ASPIRE TEAM HAVE BEEN BUSILY WORKING AS ONE AND PREPARING FOR THE BIG MOVE.
4
www.AspireAsOne.co.uk
AspireAsOneTeam
@AspireAsOne
T
he entire site has undergone some impressive changes in preparation for the arrival of the Land Securities team. The interior at 100 Victoria Street has been tastefully modernised; the metal sculptures that hang from the ceiling serve as both decorations and lights, embodying the combination of style and efficiency that can be seen across the new Cardinal Place. The addition of these features, along with the new marble reception desk, new colour schemes and other refurbishments, have effectively transformed the reception area. Further along, the entrance at 80 Victoria Street has been similarly redesigned to reflect these changes. Front of House staff, such as Receptionist Ruth Lloyd, have applauded these ‘fantastic changes’ and how they better connect the buildings. With her polite, helpful attitude, Ruth provides a warm welcome and information in addition to her usual duties. With staff as friendly and knowledgeable as Ruth working as the face of the site, any visitors or staff involved with the site renovations will always be provided with up-to-date information. Although they usually work behind the scenes, the loading bay have
www.AspireAsOne.co.uk
been every bit as important a part of the process, working tirelessly to move and keep track of deliveries during the busy regeneration period. The likes of Assistant Security Manager Elvis Albert keep a close eye on the developments, as well as ensuring the transition has been made as smooth as possible.
AspireAsOneTeam
@AspireAsOne
Wotto Kolley works tirelessly across all three buildings on a day-to-day basis. Her smile beams as brightly as the chrome she polishes.
5
“100 VICTORIA STREET IS A HIVE OF ACTIVITY. WITH THE ASPIRE TEAM BUZZING AT THE CENTRE TO MAINTAIN THE HIGH STANDARDS” Rob Trewick NJC Senior Portfolio Manager
6
www.AspireAsOne.co.uk
AspireAsOneTeam
@AspireAsOne
A new, stylish cafe area has been opened on the first floor and made available to the Aspire team. Here, members of staff are provided with healthy snacks, hot breakfasts and freshly prepared sandwiches. More importantly, it makes for an ideal meeting place for the team to socialise throughout the day. The thoroughfares on the ground and first floors also add to this, making travel between buildings as easy as possible. This is very much in keeping with Cardinal Place where 16 Palace Street, 80 and 100 Victoria Street are clearly not thought of as separate to one another, but rather as multiple parts that work seamlessly together as part of a single unit. It is this ideology, promoted by everyone who works there, that has helped facilitate the changes at Cardinal Place. A prime example of this is that much of the team, such as members of the cleaning staff like Wotto Kolley, are required to work across all three buildings on a day-to-day basis. This allows them to develop better relationships with each other, creating a healthier working environment and has
www.AspireAsOne.co.uk
AspireAsOneTeam
@AspireAsOne
7
enabled new staff moving to Cardinal to integrate more quickly. It also makes communicating as easy as possible, avoiding any potential problems with misinformation. With all of this in mind, it is easy to see why the transition to 100 Victoria Street has been such a success and why this site was chosen by Land Securities to be their new HQ. Situated at the heart of Victoria, leading the way in architectural design and working so cohesively together, it is clear that the Aspire team has entered the New Year stronger than ever.
8
www.AspireAsOne.co.uk
AspireAsOneTeam
@AspireAsOne
In focus with
Elvis Albert
ASSISTANT SECURITY MANAGER, CARDINAL PLACE
THE KING OF CARDINAL
A familiar face on all fronts, Elvis goes well beyond the normal responsibilities of his role. Having worked on the Cardinal Estate for over ten years as a member of security, he has had a key part in overseeing the changes at 100 Victoria Street. Mention the name ‘Elvis’ to any member of staff and the first image that it conjures up is not a certain legendary rock star but a key member of the Aspire team. Known by all, Elvis keeps a watchful eye over the proceedings at Cardinal Place and is always happy to lend an ear to any queries from other members of the team, no matter how big or small. His ‘can-do’ attitude, patience and knowledge have been recognised and praised by staff and visitors alike; it is no wonder he’s known as ‘the king of Cardinal’, as Receptionist Ruth Lloyd comments. Indeed, much like the walkway that connects the buildings of 80 and 100 Victoria Street, Elvis also acts as a bridge for the other members of the team on all levels. Having been such a key player in so much of what goes on at Cardinal Place,
www.AspireAsOne.co.uk
he appears just as comfortable working on the lower levels of the loading bay as he is welcoming visitors and managing security. It is remarkable that someone who has so many extra responsibilities is able to approach his role with the enthusiasm Elvis brings. After ten years of working at Victoria Street, his position now feels so natural to him that he laughs how sometimes it feels like he is part of the furniture. Elvis also loves getting involved in the Aspire events, having recently taken part in the Christmas celebrations. Although he devotes himself to Cardinal and all things Aspire, Elvis is still able to put aside time to relax at home with his two children. He applies this same dedication to what he refers to as his ‘second family’, being an ardent supporter of Arsenal FC.
AspireAsOneTeam
@AspireAsOne
Having even been in the VIP box at several games, Elvis takes every opportunity he can get to cheer on the club at the weekend. With such a busy lifestyle, it is a testament to his integrity, teamwork and professionalism that Elvis has been able to maintain such high standards at Cardinal Place despite the many changes it has undergone. These qualities, along with his friendly, personable nature, have established him as an invaluable member of the Aspire team at Cardinal Place.
9
December‘16
O F RE C O
PLAYER
ITION
LAST MONTH SAW THESE PEOPLE RECOGNISED BY YOU FOR EXCEPTIONAL PERFORMANCE AND FOR SIMPLY BEING A GREAT TEAM MEMBER. NOMINATIONS CAN NOW BE MADE VIA THE WEBSITE.
E AT
GN
ASPIRE PLAYER OF THE MONTH
CERTIF IC
ASPIRE STAFF RECOGNITION AWARDS
OF THE MONTH
“THREE YEARS OF EXCELLENCE”
“A GREAT SUPPORT”
WINNER: Carol Wright, NJC, 5 Strand
WINNER: Daniel Kotze, NG Bailey, Dashwood House
R
eliable, efficient and always charming, Carol Wright’s attitude to her work as a member of the cleaning staff is as positive today as it was when she began working at 5 Strand three years ago. Her warm, cheery nature makes her very approachable for visitors and other members of the Aspire team alike, while her close attention to detail means all her work is completed to the highest standard. These qualities are appreciated
by the rest of the team on a daily basis, who consider themselves ‘very fortunate to have her’, as Land Securities Customer Denis Denisov comments. Having known Carol for all the time she has worked on the site and in recognition of everything she does to go beyond what’s expected of her, Denis has nominated her for an award in excellence.
S
upportive and an anchor for the rest of the team, Daniel Kotze has proved time and time again that he is an exemplary member of Aspire. His high standards and fantastic working attitude have earned him a nomination from fellow Aspire team member Pawel Slabiak for his great teamwork. When Pawel moved to Dashwood House more than five months ago, any doubts he might have had about starting at a new site quickly disappeared
after meeting Daniel. Pawel comments that since his very first day on the job, ‘Dan was a great support’, helping him to learn everything he needed to know for the new position and quickly integrating him into the team. Kind, cheerful and respectful, Daniel can always be relied on by other members of the team when problems arise, all of whom greatly appreciate his knowledge and willingness to offer advice when necessary. The fact that he does all this whilst also providing an excellent customer service is a true achievement.
ASPIRE Special RECOGNITION AWARD THIS NEW AWARD CREATES AN OPPORTUNITY FOR IMPRESSED CUSTOMERS TO RECOGNISE EXCELLENT SERVICE BY NOMINATING ASPIRE TEAM MEMBERS VIA THE WEBSITE.
“FANTASTIC FROM START TO FINISH’” WINNER: Ultimate Security Team, Cardinal Place
I
t is very rare for a whole group to be nominated for the Player of the Month, but through their recent actions in dealing with a very sensitive situation, every member of the Security Team at Cardinal Place proved themselves worthy of the ‘Special’ award. Security Manager Jef Adams, who nominated the team, was present on the 27th January when a member of the public unfortunately lost their life close to the estate. But even when faced with such a shocking incident,
10
the security team were able to come together and were, as Jef comments, ‘fantastic from start to finish’. Responding as quickly as possible, the team not only cleared the area but also displayed great improvisation by constructing a makeshift tent around the deceased gentleman. Where others might have just panicked, every member of the security team demonstrated respect, quick thinking and worked brilliantly together to deal with the situation.
www.AspireAsOne.co.uk
AspireAsOneTeam
@AspireAsOne
ASPIRE WHAT’S ON
WE’RE EXPECTING 2017 TO BE BIGGER, BETTER AND EVEN MORE BIZARRE! We’re always looking ahead to make your time with Aspire a rewarding team experience, so are busy planning this year’s great range of events. Keep an eye out for updates, we welcome each and every one of you!
IS YOUR WORKMATE A GREAT TEAM PLAYER? Our simple online form can be completed by Aspire staff members or Land Securities Customers to nominate staff members that have excelled.
www.AspireAsOne.co.uk
VOTE NOW
Online See website for details.
AspireAsOneTeam
@AspireAsOne
11
Taste
Carb-free shepherd’s pie with THE WORLD cauliflower A SERIES OF GLOBALLY INSPIRED RECIPES topping FROM THE MULTI-CULTURAL ASPIRE TEAM.
A HEALTHY SPIN ON A CLASSIC WINTER WARMER This month’s recipe is supplied by: Lawrence Merry, Regional Manager at Ultimate Security. This recipe for Shepherd’s Pie, is the perfect way to counter those Winter chills. It’s rewarding, easy to prepare and so versatile that you can try all kinds of combinations with different ingredients. The cauliflower topping is an added bonus, offering a healthier, carb-free twist on the traditional dish. Please enjoy!
Lawrence Merry DISHES FROM AROUND THE WORLD If you have a recipe with links to your culture, family or past, why not share them with fellow Aspire team members by submitting yours to this regular column. Please send them to aspire@landsecurities.com
CONTACT
Preparation time: Cooking time: Difficulty: Serves: Ingredients: 1 head cauliflower, chopped into florets. 2 tablespoons fat (lard, tallow, ghee or coconut oil). 1 small onion, diced. 2 celery ribs, diced. 2 carrots, diced. 2 cloves garlic, minced. 1 pound ground beef or lamb.
Half a cup homemade beef broth/or Bisto. 1 tablespoon homemade ketchup or tomato paste/Heinz reduced. 2 tablespoons chopped parsley. Salt and pepper to taste. Half a cup shredded GAPS-legal cheese (omit for Paleo).
Method: 1. Preheat the oven to 400 degrees. Grease a 2-3 quart casserole dish and set aside. 2. In a large pot, steam or boil cauliflower until tender. 3. Heat 2 tablespoons of fat in a large skillet or saucepan over medium high heat. Add the onion, celery, carrots and garlic and cook until beginning to soften, around 5 minutes. 4. Add the ground meat to the pan and cook until browned. Add beef broth as necessary to keep the mixture wet. Add the ketchup or tomato paste (if using) and parsley then season with salt and pepper. Let simmer while you prepare the cauliflower topping. 5. To make the topping, drain the cooked cauliflower. Mash or puree with a stick blender until smooth. Add 2 tablespoons of fat and season with salt and pepper. 6. To assemble, spread the meat mixture on the bottom of the dish. Top with the cauliflower mixture and smooth with a spoon. Cover with shredded cheese, if using. 7. Bake for 30 minutes or until the top is brown and bubbly. Serve when piping hot.
For further information regarding the articles in this newsletter please contact Jasmin Byrne at: Land Securities, 16 Palace Street, London SW1E 5JD T +44 (0)207 932 2588 E aspire@landsecurities.com
One newsletter is keen to welcome points of view from Land Securities staff and service partners. Therefore, the views expressed in this newsletter are those of the individual contributor and do not necessarily reflect the views of Land Securities. We welcome contributions whether through social media, email, letters or stories. Please forward contributions to aspire@landsecurities.com
12
30 minutes 30 minutes Easy 4-6
WANT REGULAR UPDATES? Simply join our e-mailing list at the website or follow us:
www.AspireAsOne.co.uk AspireAsOneTeam @AspireAsOne