AON

AON plc is the world’s leading provider of risk management services, insurance and reinsurance brokerage, human capital and management consulting, with 6,000 employees in 23 UK offices.

Rapid expansion meant the firm’s Drapers Gardens campus accommodation had become unsustainable, and to support a ‘One AON’ strategy a single London HQ building solution was needed. KKS was appointed to review existing buildings and speculative schemes.

When speculative development 10 Churchill Place proved unable to accommodate their criteria, AON retained Rogers, Stirk, Harbour and Partners to work with KKS on a bespoke scheme.

Critical to AON’s business strategy was a building offering flexibility, transparency and fluidity in communication. Integrating base-build and interior design KKS worked to incorporate flexibility and communication through equal floorplates and fewer columns. Core services were shifted from a central core, the first time Canary Wharf had deviated from the layout.

Ultimately, the need for brokers to be walking distance from Lloyds took precedence over other decisions. Refurbishment and a temporary lease extension allowed AON to remain at Drapers Gardens until further expansion made relocation critical. AON selected 122 Leadenhall, and KKS was engaged to guide the steering committee through the process of change management and creating a strategic brief for the AON architect. KKS advised on topics from the client experience, recruitment and retention, to technology, culture and vision.

Building tours of relevant buildings helped the committee visualise volume and space, facilities and amenities, and how the new HQ could deliver One AON strategy that was the future of the company.