David & Goliath's Summer Work Initiative Has Employees All Over the Map

Throughout the year, the majority of David&Goliath (D&G) employees are based either in Los Angeles or Brooklyn, but in July, D&Gers have a month to recharge remotely from anywhere in the world. This unique cultural initiative, Blue Sky July, allows employees to work from their chosen locations, anywhere around the world - to explore new locations, spend extended time with family, or simply enjoy a change of scenery - providing a refreshing break from the traditional office environment. While maintaining culture and connection, employees have the chance to immerse themselves in different cultures, languages, and customs, pulling inspiration and new perspectives into their work.

Last year’s Instagram feed illustrates the success of this initiative, showcasing employees working from diverse locations around the globe, from the beaches of Panama to the mountains of Colorado. Building on its success, in addition to highlighting D&G travels on Instagram, the agency expands its Blue Sky July digital footprint by kicking off D&G’s first TikTok account highlighting the diverse and exotic locations from last year. To further expand on its digital footprint, D&G launches a real-time website tracker, detailing employee adventures on a live, dynamic map that changes as D&Gers move around the world.

"Since its inception last year, Blue Sky July has proven to be more than just a perk or working remotely; it's about recharging our creative batteries and bringing fresh perspectives to our work,” said CJ Stockton, chief of staff, director of operations at D&G. “This initiative has only been a positive cultural enhancement. We believe that when our team is happy and inspired, it translates into exceptional work for our clients."

Currently, D&G follows a hybrid work model, with employees spending two days a week in the office. D&Gers are not only satisfied but feel an improved sense of mental health and wellness. Research from the CIPD confirms that flexible work arrangements enhance employee well-being, reduce workplace stress, and boost job satisfaction and productivity - supporting a dynamic work culture.

"Blue Sky July for me is being able to resolve some of the mental load I have as a working mom. This sounds mundane, but the ability to get my kids to the post office and get their passports in order (without missing school and with both parents present) can only happen in the summer time with the flexibility to work remote. So that, for the next Blue Sky July, we can travel the world ;)" said Amy Chiang, director of project management.

"Blue Sky July has been a highlight for me and my family. I had the chance to take a road trip to my wife’s hometown, El Paso, Texas. My children got to spend the summer with their cousins and aunts, creating priceless memories. In mid-July, I flew out to Bulgaria for a production, which was an incredible experience. I learned a lot about Bulgarian culture and their production expertise. On my way back home, I added a stop in Amsterdam and explored the city solo by bike, visiting museums, restaurants, parks, and more. This year I’m looking forward to working from my office abroad in Colombia :)" said Robert Casillas, executive creative director.

Blue Sky July has been so incredible for my mental health but also for the way that it allows me to connect more deeply with culture and the world around us. As strategists and creatives, the best insights don’t come from within four walls - instead, they come from exploring new places, meeting new people, and getting outside of comfort zones. I’m so excited for this year’s BSJ because I’m going to spend some much-needed time in nature on a couple backpacking trips in Oregon and Banff." said Madison Cameron, director of strategy and head of social impact

"Thanks to BSJ, in 2023 I spent four weeks with my family in South Korea, starting in Seoul, then boarding a train to Busan, a quick hop to Jeju, then back to Seoul. While in Jeju, my laptop stopped working and there were no Apple stores around. Panic ensued! Thankfully, I was able to work using my daughter’s laptop. Always good to have a backup plan while traveling overseas!" said Larry Tazuma, sr. proofreader.

To see where D&G employees are working from this month, visit the D&G website and D&G’s Instagram account.