EES Agency CEO Replaces 'Family' Culture with 'Sports Team' Model

Falon Veit, founder and CEO of the global event production firm EES Agency, has transitioned her company's internal culture away from the traditional "family" metaphor towards a "sports team" approach. This strategic shift aims to foster greater accountability, drive higher performance, and improve employee retention.

Veit stated that the "family" model implies unconditional acceptance, whereas a sports team emphasizes mutual support alongside a demand for high achievement and accountability. "I realized I wanted to shift to a sports team mentality, where we are pushing each other forward because we see that we can do better," she explained.

The change, implemented earlier this year, aligns with the agency's growth strategy. EES Agency recently opened a second office in South Florida to support its global expansion and plans to establish an international office within the next two years. The new cultural framework includes a focus on active listening and psychological safety.

Addressing recruitment challenges in the events industry, Veit noted that new hires often have misconceptions about the demanding nature of the work. EES Agency is enhancing its onboarding process and training leaders in active listening to ensure clear communication and understanding from the outset.

To retain top talent, Veit prioritizes regular, personal outreach to high-performing employees. These interactions are designed to acknowledge their contributions and offer support, reinforcing the idea that employees are seen and valued, which is crucial for long-term commitment.