Persol Career Expands Office Space for Enhanced Collaboration and Innovation

Persol Career, a leading player in the job placement industry in Japan, is set to expand its headquarters at Azabudai Hills by adding a new floor dedicated to fostering collaboration and innovation. Starting February 24, 2026, the company will unveil a redesigned 22nd floor, complementing the existing 20th and 21st floors, all aligned under the theme "Cross-Boundary Collaboration."

The introduction of this new space is aimed at facilitating connections beyond department and job titles, promoting an environment conducive to co-creation and creativity. One of the standout features of this expansion is the collaboration area and event zone, specifically designed to encourage interaction among employees and host various internal events.

The initiative not only seeks to enhance office utilization but also to inspire a transformative change in employee behavior. The design incorporates input from diverse university students selected through an open call for wall art, allowing for a fresh perspective that enriches the workspace environment.

The Background of the Office Expansion

The office upgrade aligns with Persol Career's long-term strategy as they prepare for their headquarters move in October 2024. Instead of merely consolidating their operational base, the company envisions a workspace that expands relationships internally and externally. Their design approach revolves around four key themes: "Connection with the Outside World," "Cultivating Community," "Cross-Boundary Collaboration," and "Showcasing Skills."

Since relocating, feedback from internal surveys has demonstrated positive shifts in overall satisfaction and employee behavior. However, it also revealed areas needing improvement, particularly regarding external interactions and collaboration across boundaries. To address this, the company has been relentless in refining its workspace, even following the prestigious 39th Nikkei New Office Award.

To enhance connection and co-creation among employees, the new 22nd floor incorporates various spaces specifically designed for these purposes. The revitalized office seeks to foster active engagement and amplify individual contributions through strategic design.

New Floor Features

The 22nd floor introduces several designated project rooms, each tailored for different operational needs, such as brainstorming sessions, discussions, and group work. Here’s a breakdown of some of the unique spaces:

- Pompon: A vibrant space to stimulate quick idea generation.
- Sakuzaku: A meeting room that facilitates rapid decision-making, whether in person or online.
- Wakuwaku: An analog-focused area that fosters free-thinking and creativity with walls covered in whiteboard paint.
- Gungun: A venue for group learning and information sharing designed to align participants towards common goals.
- Sukkiri: A meeting environment that engages the senses, promoting refreshing ideas through carefully curated ambiance.
- Ikiki: A space for engaging discussions crossing departmental boundaries, reminiscent of an active classroom setup.
- Honobono: A psychologically safe area to encourage open dialogue, featuring circular wooden furniture to facilitate equal participation.

Panel Zones

In the center of the new floor, three panel zones are established to promote interpersonal knowledge-sharing and connection among colleagues, located along everyday pathways to encourage spontaneous engagement and dialogue. The zones include:

- BRAVO! Wall: A celebration of individual and collective achievements to cultivate a success-sharing culture.
- Will Canvas: A space that allows employees to articulate and share their aspirations and challenges.
- Talent Gallery: Showcases individual strengths and talents to inspire cross-departmental connections.

Event Zone

A significant addition is the newly created event zone, designed to accommodate up to 80 people, equipped with a stage, a large screen, and streaming capabilities. This versatile space will host internal events, kick-offs, and workshops, fostering a sense of community and collective energy.

Conclusion

According to Taishi Umemura, the General Manager of Strategic Administration at Persol Career, the aim of this expansion is not simply to increase workspace but to reinforce the company’s mission-driven focus. As they look forward to better serving their clients, the design of this space emphasizes inquiry, dialogue, and experimentation rather than just defining correct answers. By giving employees a sense of belonging, Persol Career strives to create an office that operates as a "second home," encouraging adaptability and evolution in the way they work.

For more information, visit Persol Career.