Ever find yourself driving around the southern edge of the UC Irvine campus, maybe near Bison Avenue, and wonder where all the "important" administrative stuff actually happens? It’s not in the fancy glass towers at the Spectrum, and it's definitely not in the middle of Aldrich Park. Most of the heavy lifting for the university’s internal machinery goes down at a spot called 111 Theory. Specifically, 111 Theory Suite 200, Irvine, CA 92617.
This isn't just another office park. It's the nerve center for things that keep a multi-billion dollar university running. If you've ever had a paycheck issue at UCI, been hired for a faculty position, or tried to figure out your employee benefits, you’ve likely dealt with the people in this specific suite.
What is 111 Theory Suite 200?
Basically, this is the headquarters for UCI Human Resources. While the university has buildings scattered all over the city, 111 Theory is located within the UCI Research Park. It's a low-slung, two-story building that looks like a standard tech office from the outside, but it houses the Workforce Relations, Benefits, and Talent Acquisition teams.
Honestly, it’s a bit of a maze if you haven't been there before. The building is shared with other heavy hitters—Intel has a massive presence in Suite 100 on the first floor—but Suite 200 is entirely dedicated to the university's administrative backbone.
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The Offices Inside
- UCI Human Resources: This is the big one. Almost all university-wide HR functions originate here.
- University Advancement: Some departments related to alumni relations and fundraising have operated out of this suite or adjacent spaces.
- Workforce Relations: If you are a member of a union like Teamsters 2010 or AFSCME, this is where the university’s negotiators, like Leslie Kleiman (the Senior Director of Workforce Relations), often base their operations.
Finding the Place Without Losing Your Mind
Getting to 111 Theory Suite 200 Irvine CA is kinda tricky because there are two "Theory" signs on California Avenue. If you take the wrong one, you end up staring at a dead end or a different parking lot.
Here is the real-world way to get there:
If you're coming from the north via the 73, exit at Bison Avenue. You'll hang a left onto California Avenue, then another left onto the second street named Theory. Look for the first driveway on your left. Once you're in the lot, veer left. The building is the second one on the right.
Pro Tip: Parking is a nightmare during peak hours. There are a few visitor spots in the front, but they are almost always full. Your best bet is to head to the back of the building. You can usually park in any unmarked stall without getting a ticket if you’re there for official HR business, but check the signs—UCI Transportation is notoriously efficient at ticketing.
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Why This Specific Location Matters
The UCI Research Park (formerly known as University Research Park) was a massive deal when it launched in the late 90s. The idea was to put private companies right next to academic researchers. 111 Theory was built in 1999, making it a "Class B" office building, which in real estate speak means "nice but not ostentatious."
It’s got about 53,794 square feet of space. The second floor (Suite 200) covers roughly half of that. Because it’s right on the edge of campus, it serves as a bridge. It’s far enough from the student dorms to be quiet, but close enough for faculty to walk over for a meeting.
Amenities You’ll Actually Use
If you’re stuck there for a long meeting or a job interview, you aren't totally stranded.
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- Herb & Ranch: This is a chef-driven cafe nearby in the research park. It's actually good, not just "office cafeteria" good.
- KINETIC Fitness: There’s a private gym for employees in the park, though you need a specific membership.
- Lactation Rooms: For those who need it, Suite 200 is one of the designated lactation-friendly spots on the UCI campus map.
Common Misconceptions
A lot of people think 111 Theory is part of the UCI Medical Center. It is not. If you have an appointment with a doctor, you should be in Orange, CA, not Irvine.
Another mistake? Confusing it with 100 Theory. 100 Theory is across the street and houses things like University Advancement and Alumni Relations. If you’re looking for HR or the Workforce Relations team specifically, you must be at 111.
Actionable Steps for Visitors
If you have a meeting at 111 Theory Suite 200, don't just wing it.
- Check the Zip Code: Some GPS units default to 92697 (the general campus zip), while others use 92617. Both work, but 92617 is more precise for the Research Park.
- Bring an ID: Even though it’s a public university office, they sometimes have check-in procedures for specific meetings.
- Arrive 15 Minutes Early: Between the confusing "Theory" street signs and the parking hunt, you’ll need the buffer.
- Use the ZotPortal: If you're an employee, check the ZotPortal for specific office hours before driving down, as some HR staff work hybrid schedules and the suite might not be fully staffed on Fridays.
This building is the engine room. It’s not flashy, it’s not a tourist destination, but if you work for or with the University of California, Irvine, 111 Theory is a landmark you'll eventually need to know.