The new Gordon Hall Flex Space opened on March 17, with an official ribbon cutting on April 2. The result of a multi-year design and renovation project, the new flex space provides a range of workspaces to be shared by ten administrative offices at HMS.

Lucas Braun, the new community manager, will be the point of contact for employees using the space, helping to reserve work and meeting spaces and overseeing the general user experience.

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MyHMS caught up with Braun to talk about hospitality skills, what makes a work community successful, and potato farming in Tasmania.

MyHMS: What brought you to HMS?

Lucas Braun: I was drawn to HMS by the opportunity to support the new Gordon Hall Flex Space and use what I’ve learned in hospitality and coworking to bring new ideas and skills to the project.

MyHMS: What did you do before you started working at HMS?

Braun: I was a regional manager at Workbar (a network of coworking spaces in the Greater Boston area). Before that I managed hotel operations in Boston and Cleveland.

MyHMS: How was the transition from working in hospitality to working in office administration, specifically in shared office spaces?

Braun: It was an easy transition because I already had the hospitality skills from my work in hotels, like empathy, prioritizing urgent issues, and handling each guest issue differently (in this case users or members). One aspect of this that is different is the fact that it is a brand-new space and concept for me and for the users so it will take some time to adjust.

MyHMS: Do you have a favorite spot in the new Flex Space?

Braun: The central location of my desk area so I can see who’s coming and going. There’s also a great view of the Quad.

MyHMS: What helps create community in a work setting?

Braun: Helping one another and keeping an open mind are key ways to create community, especially in a new environment where everyone is trying to learn the new processes, rules, amenities, and reservation system.

MyHMS: What do you like best about working at HMS?

Braun: Being a part of a new, exciting initiative like the Gordon Hall Flex Space but also looking at the big picture and what it means to support and contribute to the success of such a prominent school.

MyHMS: What do you enjoy doing when you’re not at work?

Braun: I love playing sports like soccer, tennis, and skiing. I enjoy going for bike rides and hiking with my family. But I also enjoy chill time with a good action movie, listening to music, and reading.

MyHMS: What are three things most people don’t know about you?

Braun: I worked on a potato farm in Tasmania while living in a tent in an abandoned rodeo for three months. I have perfect pitch; if you play a note on the piano, I can tell you which one it is. I speak Spanish, which I learned while living in Chile for two years.

MyHMS: If you could meet any fictional character, who would it be and why?

Braun: Homer Simpson. We could just relax on the couch, watch TV, and enjoy a “Duff” beer.

MyHMS: What’s your favorite meal to prepare at home? Why?

Braun: Tough choice between Taco Tuesday and fish sticks and tater tots. Both are easy and fun to make, plus the kids love ’em.

This interview was edited for length and clarity.