Meet our Corporate Members: Craig Shute, Jones Lang LaSalle (JLL Victoria)

In this instalment of our Corporate Member profile series, Craig Shute, Managing Director, JLL Victoria tells us what State Library Victoria means to him and why JLL – a global Fortune 500 commercial services real estate company – decided to take up corporate membership of the Library. 

JLL can trace its roots to London in 1783, eventually becoming the first international firm to open in Australia in 1958. In Victoria, more than 1000 JLL employees advise clients on the full gamut of real estate services – asset and investment management, sales and leasing, valuation, project and facilities management and technology and sustainability across retail, office, industrial, hospitality, residential, agribusiness and alternative spaces – all with the purpose of shaping the future of real estate for a better world.   

Similarly to the Library, JLL has evolved over centuries to remain relevant to the contemporary world. 'The Library is an effective blend of spectacular heritage and modern efficiency in the heart of Melbourne’s CBD. A cultural and community hub, the Library boasts an impressive wealth of resources for those wanting to study and research, but its unique appeal lies in the smaller details – the offer of an interaction with a bygone era and detailed insight into Victoria’s rich and colourful history.    

'Entering the La Trobe Reading Room for the first time is a glorious experience. The famous dome, octagonal reading room and six floors of balconies are an architectural feat to behold.  

'Although, my favourite memory is walking into the Ned Kelly exhibit to encounter the full body armour of Australia’s most notorious bushranger. Reading the many diary entries sparked heated debate among colleagues over whether the infamous gang leader should be remembered as hero or outlaw. 

'A short walk from our headquarters on Collins Street, the Library has become a gathering place of celebration for JLL. Several of our corporate functions have been hosted in various spaces across the venue from hosting client cocktails with our Global CEO in The Ian Potter Queen’s Hall, to staff ‘town hall’ updates in the Ideas and Conversation Quarters. Centuries-old staircases, archways and stained-glass windows blend seamlessly with modern brightly lit rooms to lend an appealing feel to any function. 

'Our corporate membership provides access to the incredible variety of benefits the Library has to offer. JLL believes support of the Library is crucial to preserve this important Melbourne landmark. It enables us to use the extensive offering of corporate and function spaces as well as participate in the many speaker and exhibition series available throughout the year. These varied events include hearing from key business leaders, attending art exhibitions, cocktail masterclasses, to presentations from famous explorers and photographers. The Library offers something of interest for everyone.'

- Craig Shute