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.
George Wilson, President & CEO, ECS
George Wilson joined ECS in 2011 and rose to president and CEO in February 2014, leading a company with more than 3,000 employees throughout the U.S. Headquartered in Fairfax, Virginia. ECS provides technology, science and engineering solutions to public and private sector customers, so WashingtonExec asked Wilson just how the company is adapting with a safety-first approach during COVID-19.
What innovative workplace policies/practices has your company embraced to minimize the impact of COVID-19?
We have canceled nonessential travel; ECS-hosted events have been postponed; and nonessential team meetings, program and budget reviews are postponed or being held virtually.
ECS has also expanded or moved forward training and education plans surrounding cloud and cyber certifications that can be taught in a virtual environment. We have tested for full operational capability assuming complete headquarters shutdown, and are using Microsoft Teams to fullest extent possible including video conferencing and chats instead of in-person meetings.
What has your company done to keep morale up internally for employees?
We are ensuring direct, personal communication from project and team leaders, including direct email from the CEO/president with planned periodic updates and a possible virtual town hall. And HR teams and leaders will work with individuals and address employees with unique work and family needs.
ECS is also reminding employees that the company has come through relatable challenges in the past such as natural disasters and government shutdowns, and that ECS’ mission, vision and culture has withstood previous challenges and will withstand this pandemic.
We’re identifying and supporting leaders throughout the organization to ensure we maximize the use of technologies to support our business and customers even when working through remote and separate locations. We are also implementing a program for employee leave donations and matching ECS funds to support employees who have been struck by this pandemic harshly, through no fault of their own.