Balancing Legacy with Flexibility – with Vivienne Grafton of the Bank of England
What does it take to transform one of the world’s iconic financial institutions into a workplace fit for the future?
In this episode of Purpose of Place, Despina Katsikakis speaks with Vivienne Grafton, Managing Director, Operations & Transformation including Property, Procurement & Corporate Services, at the Bank of England. Drawing on her extensive leadership experience at HSBC and Barclays, Vivienne shares how she is helping the Bank of England evolve its estate—balancing legacy and symbolism with flexibility, sustainability, and meeting the expectations of a modern workforce.
Vivienne discusses the Bank’s approach to placemaking, experience-led design, and the challenges of modernizing a Grade I listed building in the heart of London. She also explores how second-tier cities like Leeds play a role in talent strategy, and why real estate leaders must move from order-takers to strategic business partners.
Tune in for insights on connecting place to purpose, and leading change in the public sector at a moment of transformation for the industry.
Episode Music: https://www.davidcuttermusic.com
Purpose of Place: The Future of Work & Real Estate
How can we future-proof real estate investments in an era of uncertainty?
Purpose of Place: The Future of Work & Real Estate is the podcast for investors, landlords, and occupiers adapting to the shifting demands of the commercial real estate market. As new work models and evolving lifestyles challenge traditional approaches, each episode explores strategies to minimize risk, drive sustainable growth, and design places that are thriving and resilient.
Hosted by workplace visionary Despina Katsikakis, the podcast brings together insights from industry innovators to ensure your investments stand the test of time—financially, environmentally, and socially.
Where can you listen?
