Market Harborough Building Society (MHBS) has announced plans to move to a new head office to make extra room for its growth plans.
The society, which is said to be one of the country’s fastest growing mutuals, has 120 management and administrative staff based across two sites in the centre of the south Leicestershire town. It is planning to relocate to the former Joules building at The Point Business Park. Joules has a new HQ on the edge of the town.
The 12,152 sq ft office has been empty since 2019 and MHBS plans to relocate by spring 2024 – a move which it said would help reinvigorate the landmark location.
A spokeswoman said: “As well as creating a new, modern environment for its growing colleague base, the society is also pledging to provide meeting and event space for local community groups, clubs and charities.
“The move includes purchase of a 65 space car park adjacent to the office building which will ensure the venue is accessible for groups of all sizes.”
Society chief executive Iain Kirkpatrick says: “By moving head office we’re able to unite our colleagues in one building for the first time, creating a modern and flexible working environment which will encourage more team working and collaboration which is good news for members, whilst also supporting the health and wellbeing of our people.
“The Point’s reputation as a premium location also means we can boast a compelling work environment for our teams, now and in the future as we continue to grow the society.
“I’m also personally delighted that The Point offers us the ability to share the benefits of our new office with local community groups, clubs and societies by making space available for them to host meetings or other events.
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“Supporting our community is at the heart of our purpose as a mutual and our ambitious Thrive! Agenda, which is focused on giving back to the communities we serve.”
All refurbishment work will be undertaken by local contractors, with the key project team all based within 15 miles of Market Harborough.
The society has no plans to move its Welland House branch, which occupies space in one of its current head office buildings, and is even considering sharing more space in other local financial organisations.
Mr Kirkpatrick said: “We are committed to providing face-to-face service in our Market Harborough branch, which we know is invaluable to many customers especially the more vulnerable members of society.
“The branch offers much more than a place to transact, our colleagues offer a wide range of support to help members look after their financial and personal wellbeing, as well as playing a vital role in their wider communities through fundraising and volunteering activities.”