Episode 08: Work In Progress - Emilie Lashmar

💬 SummaryIn this episode of Work in Progress, we speak to Emilie Lashmar – brand partner, community builder, and Director of GCUC UK – about the evolving world of work, the role of purpose in retention, and how space design shapes culture.With over 15 years’ experience in brand, marketing, and events, and nearly a decade shaping coworking and creative spaces, Emilie shares her take on the future of flexibility, the difference between performative and authentic values, and what younger generations are really looking for in a workplace. We explore how employers can create environments that work for the whole person, why embedding values into daily decisions matters more than a glossy culture deck, and the small but powerful ways workplaces can foster connection.💡 TakeawaysThe future of work is about flexibility – in space, culture, and contractsPurpose isn’t a “nice to have” – it’s a driver for retention and trustYounger generations are courageous in asking for more – and employers should listenEmbedding values into daily operations matters more than publishing them on a wallPay transparency attracts the right talent and builds trustSpace design directly impacts culture, wellbeing, and inclusionUnlimited holiday is often overhyped – it can create uncertainty or guiltAccessibility (physical, digital, and neurodivergent) needs more attentionCreating a “whole person” workplace means thinking beyond work to life needsNetworking works best when it’s generous, authentic, and community-led🕒 Chapters00:00 – Who is Emilie Lashmar and what does she do?02:14 – From illustration to coworking and community building06:16 – Why the future of work excites Emilie07:20 – Four-day week, pay transparency, and purpose-led business12:39 – The dangers of resisting change15:42 – How to spot authentic values vs good marketing18:24 – Purpose as a retention tool in coworking and creative industries20:26 – A tangible starting point for becoming values-led21:44 – Shifting expectations around where and how we work25:27 – What younger generations really want from work29:55 – Generational shifts in how we think about work-life balance30:15 – How space design influences culture and wellbeing31:47 – Workplace trends: what’s overhyped and what’s under-talked about33:29 – Is there still a gap between what people want and what companies offer?34:12 – Emilie’s dream workplace of the future36:54 – Emilie’s advice for finding or transforming your dream role🔗 Follow EmilieWebsite: https://www.lashmar.co.uk/Brighton Creatives: https://www.brightoncreatives.com/GCUC UK: https://uk.gcuc.co/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/emilie-lashmar/Follow Favourite Positions on LinkedIn and Instagram, connect with Alex here.