Criterion, the not-for-profit body that delivers professional Standards and Governance services for the UK's financial services industry and its customers, has relocated to one of Scotland’s major financial districts in Edinburgh’s Georgian New Town (9-10 St. Andrew Square). This is a key milestone for Criterion and reflects its continued role in supporting the financial services industry. The portfolio of over 80 Criterion Standards, were established over thirty years ago and underpin the exchange of data between organisations in the financial services industry.
First opened in 1962 as the Head Office of Scottish Widows Fund and Life Assurance Society, the new Criterion headquarters is an A-listed building, designed by renowned Scottish architect Sir Basil Spence.
The new home to Criterion has partly been chosen for its proximity to public transport. By reducing the physical workspace to support hybrid working and moving to a more centralised location in Edinburgh, Criterion will significantly reduce its carbon footprint and become more energy efficient. The Criterion team will now mainly commute to the office by public transport, and it is estimated that they will lessen their car journeys by around 2,000 in just one year. This is part of Criterion’s journey to become greener and help the UK reach net zero by 2050.
Billy Burnside, Criterion’s Managing Director, commented:
I am delighted to report that Criterion has a new home. We’ve found a Regus serviced office that is ideal for our needs under our hybrid working model. 1962 was a key moment in the history of Scottish Widows. Wind forward 60 years, and it’s going to be a key moment in Criterion’s history and our new base. Another new start for us, despite running industry standards for over 30 years.
The move took place seamlessly without disrupting Criterion’s services. The team looks forward to welcoming any visitors to the new office space.
