Name: Ana Stanojevic
Job title: Principal, workplace practice group manager at Arcadis Architecture and Urbanism
What I do: I lead workplace transformation strategies that harmonise hybrid environments, behaviours, and technologies at Arcadis Architecture and Urbanism. My focus is on creating sustainable, inspiring, and high-performing workplaces that enhance employee experience and business outcomes. Our practice brings deep experience in hospitality and a wide range of sectors, which puts us in a great position to take on complex workplace challenges and design environments that truly work for people.
Why I got into the property industry: I was drawn to the intersection of people, space, technology, planet and performance. The property industry offered a unique opportunity for me to influence how environments can shape human behaviour and organisational success.
How I did it: Throughout my career, I have developed my knowledge and experience through hands-on experience with global real estate leaders like Cushman & Wakefield, JLL and CBRE, supporting over 40 occupiers in transforming their workplaces. I have also invested quite a lot in continuous learning and thought leadership.
My first proper job: My first significant role in the property industry was in workplace strategy and design at DEGW (last century), where I quickly realised the power of aligning space with culture and business goals.
My first big break: Leading the workplace strategy for Sky Central, which won the BCO ‘Best of the Best’ award. It was a transformative project that showcased the impact of user-centric design and strategic planning in a fast-paced environment.
My inspiration(s): I’m inspired by visionary leaders, such as British architect Frank Duffy, founder of DEGW, who challenged the status quo and by the evolving needs of the workforce, which constantly pushed us to innovate.
The biggest challenge I’ve encountered to date: Driving cultural and behavioural change at scale – especially in legacy organisations – requires patience, empathy, and strategic influence.
My greatest achievement/proudest moment to date: Being recognised as a Top 50 Workplace Thought Leader in 2023 and seeing the tangible impact of my work on employee wellbeing and organisational performance.
The biggest misconception people have about the property industry: That it’s just about buildings. In reality, it’s all about people – how they work, connect, and thrive in the spaces we create.
My biggest bugbear about the industry/the one thing I would change about the industry: The slow pace of adopting inclusive and future-proof design principles. We need to be bolder and more agile in embracing change.
Why I’m so passionate about DE&I: Because inclusive environments unlock potential. I’ve seen firsthand how diverse perspectives lead to better outcomes and more resilient organisations.
Why I’m so passionate about ESG: Sustainability in property isn’t optional – it’s a responsibility. ESG principles help guide us to create workplaces that are not only efficient but also ethical and future ready.
Where I’d like to be in five years’ time career-wise: Continuing to lead transformative workplace strategies on a global scale, mentoring the next generation of leaders, and driving systemic change in how we design for people and the planet.
Who I’d invite, living or dead, to a dinner party: I’d invite Maya Angelou for her wisdom, Steve Jobs for his vision, Zaha Hadid for her boldness in design, and Brené Brown for her insights on vulnerability and leadership. I think the conversation would be rather unforgettable.
What I do in my downtime: I recharge by spending time in nature, exploring art and architecture, and practicing mindfulness. I also love discovering new cities and cultures – it fuels my creativity and perspective. I occasionally attempt yoga positions that result in me questioning my life choices.
The job I’d be doing if I was not doing this: I’d likely be a cultural anthropologist or a documentary filmmaker – still exploring how people live, connect, and shape their environments, just through a different lens.
My advice for someone just starting out: Stay curious, be bold, and never underestimate the power of listening. Build relationships, not just networks, and always align your work with your values.
My motto/mantra: “Design with purpose, lead with empathy.”
