Designing Better Futures
Neiman Marcus
“We’ve embraced a model that’s not one size fits all, but rather one size fits one,” says Neiman Marcus Chief People, ESG and Belonging Officer Eric Severson. “We’ve optimized our real estate to allow people to work where they feel comfortable and can be most productive. The key is cultivating an environment that provides equity and flexibility so people can do their best work. This freedom and choice is empowering, allowing everyone to thrive and advance in their career.”
The company recently moved into a new Dallas hub designed to leverage the physical space to help employees thrive, feel accepted and valued.
Chief People,
ESG + Belonging Officer
While it’s still early — associates moved into the new hub in July 2023 — employee feedback has been very positive. An early survey shows a 34% increase in employee satisfaction and the space has become intensely popular — especially the collaboration settings, which have been booked solid.
community
Senior Manager, Retail Project Management
and Retail Excellence
“The lounges are designed to remind our associates what they’re here for, our customers, and what our brand is all about. And they’re also an amazing space where they can “bump into” people, share ideas or escape for some downtime,” says Severson.
“We wanted each space in the hub to have its own identity, while reflecting elements of our storied history and the elegance that NMG is known for,” says Elizabeth Vance, senior manager, Retail Project Management and Retail Excellence at Neiman Marcus. “Thanks to the wide array of brands Steelcase and Tangram represent, we were able to create a beautiful space that fosters innovation, creativity, and equity.”
In this team space, workstations with height-adjustable desks, ergonomic seating and screens to control privacy support associate’s physical and cognitive wellbeing. Associates can easily switch to collaborative work in the adjacent space.
Associates can use a variety of hybrid collaboration spaces equipped with monitors, cameras and speakers to effectively support mixed presence so everyone can contribute equally and be present in virtual meetings.
“We designed the hub to feel the same for our associates as our stores feel for customers. We want it to feel luxurious - and I don’t mean expensive but personalized luxury that makes everyone feel special,” says Severson.