As the world closely monitors and tracks the spread and impact of the new coronavirus, business leaders are making decisions about how to mitigate the risk and keep everyone safe and healthy. In the government contracting community, executives are enacting procedures and policies to protect employees, customers and partners while continuing to provide government agencies with the services, solutions and mission-critical support they need.
In this series, WashingtonExec will highlight these leaders and how they are tackling this crisis, in an effort to share best practices in industry and shed light on the virus’ impact on the nation.
Damon Griggs, CEO, Dovel Technologies
Damon Griggs first joined Dovel Technologies in 2016 as chief operating officer. He took the reins as president in 2018, and now leads the company through a global pandemic. Below, Griggs shares how Dovel has implemented a response team, is encouraging teleworking and is working to mitigate employee stress and anxiety during this uncertain time.
What innovative workplace policies/practices has your company embraced to minimize the impact of COVID-19?
Dovel established a response team, led by senior executives, to be on the front lines of policy decisions and communications to our 2,200 personnel. The company is strongly encouraging telework for all employees who are able and authorized to do so and is actively working with government customers and partners to provide employees with as much support and flexibility as possible.
Dovel supports emergency preparedness, response and recovery, from conducting scientific research to managing critical IT infrastructure. We are actively looking at innovative solutions that will further aid customer needs during this time.
What has your company done to keep morale up internally for employees?
We know these uncertain times can produce anxiety and stress for employees. We are encouraging managers to connect with their teams often through phone or video conferencing, to share a flexible mindset throughout the organization, and for all to have a little more patience, flexibility and empathy as we navigate this unprecedented situation together.
How has the policy for travel or attending large conferences changed?
Out of concern for the health and safety of our employees, Dovel has restricted all nonessential business travel until April 10 (this timing could be extended), with new requests for travel being submitted to our Response Team for review. We’re working to reschedule any current travel plans or move meetings to virtual settings, where possible.