The coworking industry has always thrived on connection, community, and the belief that great things happen when talented people come together. Now, one of the sector’s most exciting initiatives is spreading its wings internationally. Future Leaders of Coworking (FLOC), the peer-led leadership accelerator that’s been making waves by championing early- to mid-career professionals, has launched its UK chapter and they will be with us at GCUC UK. They’ll be hosting an exclusive lunchtime session for emerging professionals, and we’re excited to announce that we’ve partnered with FLOC to offer two scholarship tickets to up-and-coming members, fill out the scholarship form for your chance to attend. We sat down with FLOC’s founder, Sam Shea and UK Chapter Lead, James Panepinto to learn more about their mission and what attendees can expect.
Tell us briefly what FLOC does and who you serve.
FLOC is a peer-led leadership accelerator and network designed for early- to mid-career professionals in coworking. We provide mentorship, structured career development, and a supportive community that helps emerging leaders gain visibility, build skills, and connect with opportunities across the sector.
Why did you start FLOC and what gap were you trying to fill?
FLOC was founded to complement the essential work of industry associations by serving as a leadership accelerator for early- to mid-career professionals. While associations provide vital support for owners and executives, there wasn’t a dedicated space for emerging leaders to develop the skills, mentorship, and peer networks needed to advance. FLOC fills that gap by acting as a bridge: exposing talent within and beyond coworking to the wide range of brands and career paths in our sector and equipping them to become the next generation of industry leaders.
Describe the lunchtime session in two lines, what will people actually do and learn?
This session is designed to connect emerging professionals who are new to coworking or in early- to mid-career roles. Through a structured networking activity, participants will exchange insights from their career journeys and leave with new connections, shared wisdom, and practical takeaways to support their leadership development.
Give one concrete example of a member outcome or success that shows FLOC works.
Within our first six months, multiple FLOC members have experienced promotions, been invited to industry events that once felt closed to them, and secured speaking opportunities on podcasts and global panels. These outcomes show that when early- to mid-career professionals are positioned as Future Leaders, the industry begins to see them differently and doors start to open.
What three skills should future coworking leaders focus on right now?
Future coworking leaders should focus on three core skills right now: adaptability, data literacy, and people-centered leadership. Adaptability is essential in a fast-evolving industry where business models and member needs continue to shift. Data literacy enables leaders to make informed decisions and demonstrate value in measurable ways. And above all, people-centered leadership ensures that coworking remains rooted in community, relationships, and human connection.
What is the biggest challenge community managers face and one practical step to fix it?
Burnout from balancing operations, hospitality, and sales. A practical fix: give managers clear growth paths and reassign low-value tasks so they can focus on cultivating strong communities.
James, from a UK perspective which trend should operators be watching most closely?
Operators need to watch the shift from desk sales to value-added services. Members/occupiers/ tenants are demanding more than square footage; they want networks, experiences, and support that justify pricing. The operators who will thrive are the ones doubling down on community and hospitality, treating it as a core product rather than a nice-to-have. Those who don’t adapt risk being left behind.
Sam, what leadership lesson from running FLOC would you pass on to a new chapter lead?
The biggest lesson I’d share is that leaders eat last. Leadership isn’t glamorous. It means showing up even when it’s hard, serving first, and making space for others to shine. Running FLOC has taught me that you’ll make mistakes along the way, but consistency and humility build the trust that makes a community thrive. As a chapter lead, you’re here to represent future leaders across the sector, and that responsibility is worth it.
How can people get involved with FLOC this month, and what will they find when they join?
This month, the best way to get involved with FLOC is to join as a member or refer someone you know to our community. We’re especially seeking top talent and professionals committed to building long-term careers in coworking, and we’re currently capturing applications and interest for our UK chapter. New members will find exclusive programming, mentorship opportunities, and peer connections designed to accelerate their growth. As our community expands, we’ll also begin welcoming mentors to support the next wave of Future Leaders.
One final line for our readers and attendees, where do we send people to sign up?
Learn more and apply today at futureleadersofcoworking.com/apply.