Paul FrancoisJuly 30, 2019
About Pepper, Workplace, Projects

Typically, we plan our spaces to fit the way we work. At Pepper, we’re looking at our new space differently: as an opportunity to transform the way we work.

Recently, Columbus Business First published an article about our new office in Dublin. It's been more than a year in the planning, and now we're only a couple months away from moving in. It's stressful and also one of the most exciting projects I've witnessed at Pepper - for many reasons.

We're building for ourselves. While we have a team managing the construction and our self-perform group is involved in the craftsmanship, it's the employee engagement aspect that is so unique. The tables are turned, and we now sit in the client's seat. We decide the furnishings and fixtures. We decide to proceed with certain long-lead items or find alternatives. We decide how, what and when to communicate to our staff. So many decisions! I've always appreciated how overwhelming a construction project can be for our clients, and now I can truly empathize with them, and particularly for those where it falls outside their day-to-day responsibilities. Our project is transforming how we think about customer service.

Pepper-Dublin-Office-Tour
Our team checks out the progress on our own jobsite.

These aren't just my thoughts. Our decision-making approach is not top-down; rather, everyone in our office has a hand (or two) in the work.  And the space we're building is designed to encourage more collaboration, problem-solving and camaraderie. We're moving from offices to a completely open concept. For the first time since I was an intern, I won't have an office!

If the open office and the fact we're building the space for ourselves aren't enough, we've decided to pursue WELL Silver Certification. When I started looking into the kind of space we would want, I didn't know what WELL was, but I knew I wanted to build something that would help our people perform at their best. After talking with our Vice President of High Performance and Sustainability, Susan Heinking, it became clear that WELL was the answer. WELL focuses on the health of the building, and it also considers the health and wellness of its occupants. And that's why we build - for the people that inhabit the spaces. It made too much sense not to do it. 

I could go on and on about what has gone into this project, and starting in August, through a spirit of transparency, we'll be sharing our story on our website. I invite you to follow us and learn from us. Ask questions and come tour our space.

Can a building change the way we work? We believe it can.

 

About the Author

Francois_Paul

Paul FrancoisPresident, Pepper Construction, Ohio

With over three decades of experience in the construction industry, Paul Francois is a seasoned leader known for his strategic vision and commitment to excellence. As President of Pepper Construction of Ohio, Paul oversees all aspects of the company's operations, driving growth, fostering client relationships, and ensuring the delivery of high-quality projects on time and within budget.

Paul's journey in construction began with a strong foundation, earning his bachelor’s degree in construction engineering from Iowa State University. Paul has cultivated a reputation for his hands-on approach and collaborative leadership style. He believes in fostering a culture of innovation and continuous improvement, empowering his team to explore new technologies and methodologies to enhance project efficiency and quality all while creating a strong team culture. 

Paul is a passionate supporter of the Pancreatic Cancer Network (PanCan) and PurpleStride Columbus and has established the Teachers Helping Teachers Foundation – all in loving memory of his wife, Teresa Francois. Several other community organizations benefit from Paul’s volunteering efforts including his deep engagement as a board member of Junior Achievement of Central Ohio and his active involvement with the Construction Engineering Industry Advisory Council and Mid-Ohio Food Collective. Paul is a firm believer in giving back and strives to make a positive impact wherever he goes.