The Mill Chicago’s New Ways of Working Are a Fit for the Modern World
The Mill’s success over the past 30 years is down to, at least in part, its ability to move with the times while being firmly rooted in craft excellence. Over the last few months, Angela Lupo, managing director, has been overseeing the evolution of the Chicago arm of the company and ensuring that it's fit for a new, modern world while Mark Benson, president, has been reviewing how The Mill optimises office space globally in a post covid landscape. "In Chicago, we have reduced our total studio footprint in line with how the market has evolved post covid, and I am very excited about the working model we have built for our Chicago colleagues and clients moving forward together,” says Mark. With that in mind, the team has embraced a remote model to become more fluid in their ways of working, without the limits of geography or time zones.
The move is also about bringing a boutique experience to the Chicago area to meet and exceed client expectations. The team comes together when needed and works on projects remotely at other times which gives everyone the flexibility to get things done.
As for the The Mill's global offices, he adds that: "The Mill is currently looking at how we optimise our studio spaces across all of our Mill studios, and as we build the legacy for the future and next chapter of The Mill, any decisions we make around studio space will always embrace the need for The Mill to have a studio space in all of the cities where we work and operate. A physical presence is critical to all of our initiatives and efforts in the future, and essential for ourselves and our clients, collaborating together, making great work together and having fun doing so at the same time."
“Having The Mill in Chicago has been invaluable for DDB as we’ve been able to partner with them on projects across the agency roster in a way that is both convenient and efficient while still having access to the world class artists and creative minds in their halls and throughout their global network. The Chicago office in particular has been solution-oriented, offering relentless problem solving no matter what budgets or timelines we’ve been working with. We’ve spent many a late night together in the Chicago office pulling off advertising miracles," says Luke LiManni, VP and executive producer at DDB.
Below, LBB chatted to Angela about how the move is all about improving artists’ well-being, fostering better collaboration, and never taking the eye of the prize: really, really good work.
LBB> Tell us a little bit about the new location for your offices and why you chose it?
Angela> Our Chicago branch has newly positioned itself at the Hoxton Hotel, nestled conveniently near Fulton Market. With a fully functioning colour and finish suite, this locale was handpicked for its unmistakable alignment with the innovative and bespoke spirit of The Mill. The venue comfortably houses up to two artists and five supervising clients while connecting to our global network of VFX, design, and experience artists.
Above: the new space inside the Hoxton
LBB> How does the new office expand and/or refine your capabilities - any new tech/facilities we should know about?
Angela> Adapting to the dynamic shifts in the advertising landscape, The Mill Chicago has been reimagined to resonate with the evolving market demands. We're not only keeping pace with industry standards but setting them, ensuring we remain adaptable to our clients' ever-changing needs.
LBB> What’s your approach to in-office work versus working from home? Why have you decided to pursue this strategy?
Angela> At the heart of The Mill's ethos is collaboration. We believe in the magic that ensues when creative minds converge in a unified space. But, we also recognise the liberties and advantages that come with remote flexibility, offering a balance of both to breed innovation.
LBB> What do you see as the value of working in person when it comes to creativity that virtual meetings can’t replicate?
Angela> While digital tools have revolutionised our reach, the essence of face-to-face interactions remains irreplaceable. Direct engagements not only expedite the creative process but also foster deeper connections, often lost amidst the virtual hum. It's those unscripted, spontaneous moments in shared spaces that truly amplify creativity.
LBB> How do you ensure that communication remains effective between employees, clients, and all the projects?
Angela> The linchpin to our seamless operation is our adept production team. Navigating the complexities of projects, our producers and dedicated creatives ensure each narrative unfolds flawlessly, strengthening client rapport at every juncture.
LBB> What kind of experience are you hoping to give clients with this refreshed approach?
Angela> Adaptability is at the forefront of our mission. Whether our clients desire a virtual partnership or an immersive on-site collaboration, we're poised to cater to both with finesse. And for those looking for added amenities, there's an expansive open workspace, kitchen, and a rooftop lounge equipped with a café at the Hoxton.
LBB> What kind of feedback are you getting from employees and clients about the new working set-up?
Angela> The initial feedback has been overwhelmingly positive. Our team appreciates this rejuvenated space for its collaborative ethos, and clients are drawn to its fresh, invigorating vibe.
LBB> How are you building an office culture that’s both productive, creative, and fun?
Angela> While our operations might stretch across virtual and physical realms, our commitment to fostering a cohesive culture remains steadfast. We host regular events in person and virtually, ensuring every member feels integral to The Mill's collective identity. The new space is primed to be an exciting hub for creativity, collaboration, and innovation, aligning seamlessly with our global network.
