DDB Group Philippines - Most Exemplary Employer

Company: DDB Group Philippines, Taguig City. Philippines
Company Description: DDB Group Philippines is a leading integrated marketing communications group in the Philippines composed of creative, digital, media, PR, content and data analytics agencies that provide expertise to a diverse roster of local and multinational clients. We are multi-awarded not only for our creative campaigns but also for people management. We are part of DDB Worldwide globally known as DDB.
Nomination Category: COVID-19 Response Categories
Nomination Sub Category: Most Exemplary Employer

Nomination Title: DDB Group Philippines

A leading integrated marketing communications group, DDB Group Philippines successfully pivoted its operations at the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic to ensure business continuity while remaining true to its “People First” philosophy.

Even before COVID-19 was declared a pandemic, the company already created a taskforce composed of senior management and HR, who expediently put together a COVID-19 Playbook that would guide management and staff on how to continue working safely under pandemic conditions.

As dictated by the lockdowns, DDB adopted work-from-home (WFH) arrangement for its 200 plus employees and had prepared peopleware, hardware and software for it. Laptops, data and WFH allowances were provided so employees could set up their home workspaces. Workshops on videoconferencing were conducted to skill up for virtual meetings, while an IT helpdesk was set up to provide assistance.

Business unit heads regularly check on their people to ensure everyone’s safe and doing well, and able to continue delivering excellent work, managing client relationships and growing the business. All these while they work from home – with some staff going to the office or on production shoots only when absolutely necessary and when allowed by government subject to COVID-19 safety protocols.

The company further took care of its people through care-packs delivered at their doorsteps, webinars, and virtual townhalls and fun socials. Employees were also kept updated on company news, COVID-19 cases and precautionary measures, as well as given health tips, mental health counselling, and work-home balance hacks. DDB also procured vaccines to provide employees the ultimate protection against COVID-19.

At the same time, the company has successfully grown the business through existing clients as well as new business pitches. This resulted in sustained revenues, year-on-year higher profits, and substantial cashflow. With DDB’s business thriving in the pandemic, employees receive their full salaries on time and enjoy complete benefits including health card, overtime pay, paid leaves, bonus, and continued promotion.

There had been no retrenchments and salary cuts in the agency group. Talent retention remained high at 96% by end-2020 with employees giving an excellent rating on the way DDB handled the pandemic.