(Constructive) Chaos in the Workplace

If you didn’t watch HBO’s “The Newsroom” then allow me to quickly summarize: Jeff Daniels played a cable news talking head who spent years prioritizing the rating juggernaut over substantive and provocative stories. All at once he flips the script and quickly transforms his sleepy operation into hard-hitting newsroom (set to a dizzying and brilliant Aaron Sorkin dialogue.)

I wanted to work there. 

When we sat down to design our new global headquarters, which is located in the heart of Downtown Buffalo, we knew that open floor plans would define the workspace. And yes, deep down I was hoping to recreate the constructive chaos of “The Newsroom.” Now that we’re up and running I realize that Delaware North associates are not delivering breaking news to millions of people each night, scrambling to verify sources and cutting to journalists half a world away. We’re a concessions and hospitality company, and there just isn't as much to yell across the room about.

But that’s not to say that collaborations and collisions – albeit of the quieter kind – aren’t taking place. After years of working in a very traditional office building, with cubicles separated by oppressive walls and kitchenettes hidden in corners, our associates are enjoying the bright and airy shared spaces that exist throughout our headquarters.

We designed large, inviting coffee bars on each floor that provide fresh coffee, tea and snacks all day long to encourage people to get up from their sit/stand desks and interact with colleagues they might not otherwise meet. Another great feature is that all of our conference rooms are outfitted to facilitate virtual meetings with clients, vendors and associates in the field. My favorite area is the Hub, which includes rows of stadium seating as a nod to the many ballparks where operate food and retail services. It serves as a gathering place for meetings, lunches, guest lectures etc. and overlooks the busy intersection of Delaware Avenue and Chippewa Street through floor-to-ceiling windows spanning two stories.

We literally, and figuratively, broke down the walls that existed between our company’s units. For the first time in Delaware North’s history all of our subsidiaries – sports, airports, gaming, parks, and premium dining – are located on the same floor. We’re a global company operating in an increasingly interconnected and global economy, so it is more important than ever that we share good ideas and best practices across our diverse industry sectors.

By the end of summer we’ll complete the build out of our new headquarters when we open and operate a Westin Hotel, as well as our new restaurant Patina 250. We look forward to welcoming everyone to our new space that we are proud to call “home,” and we hope to see you soon.