SB Profiles
Best Companies: Q&A with MG2’s Mitch Smith
Seattle Business magazine asked industry leaders to share their insights on how to develop a thriving workforce—and retain loyal, success-driven employees.
By Rachel Gallaher January 6, 2026
What does it take to be voted one of the “best companies to work for in Seattle?” That depends on who you ask, of course, as everyone has a different measurement of what makes a great boss, team, and work environment. Seattle Business magazine went straight to the source, asking executives at five of the highest-scoring companies in the annual Best Companies To Work For survey about what makes their workplaces stand out among the rest—from summer boat outings and holiday activities, to an emphasis on creating a collaborative in-office culture where everyone feels like they are adding value to the team.
Below, Mitch Smith, AIA, LEED AP, the CEO of global architecture firm MG2 (with an office in downtown Seattle), shares his thoughts on community connections, giving back, and making sure everyone feels like a valued member of the team.
Seattle Business magazine: How do you build a positive working culture at your company?
Mitch Smith: Creating a positive working culture happens from the outside in as well as the inside out. Architecture is more than building design—it’s about creating lasting relationships with the communities we serve. At MG2, our work is shaped by the needs, aspirations, and challenges of those who live and work in the spaces we design. Coincidentally, the needs, aspirations, and challenges of our employees are important in designing their careers. We focus on creating opportunities for people to grow, to feel included, and to have an impact on the work and the firm.
How does your company support employees in their career development?
Our involvement with the American Institute of Architects (AIA) and National Organization of Minority Architects (NOMA), as well as our financial support for membership and licensure, actively supports career growth. We also regularly sponsor Lunch and Learns and have a Core Four program geared toward giving those who are moving into management roles the skills to succeed.
What is your in-office versus work-from-home policy?
We offer a hybrid work environment, with three days in-office and two working from home. Each group determines collectively which three days they will be in, and we ask that all groups include Wednesdays, so we have at least one day a week for an impromptu all-hands meeting, if needed.
How important is cross-team and departmental collaboration?
Collaboration is fundamental to our work. Innovations generated by one team or group are often adopted by others—as part of our goal of continuous improvement. We also collaborate closely with consultants and contractors and across our seven offices and multiple time zones.
How do you build trust with employees?
Transparency and community. Our Friday Morning Meetings is an example of both. Twice a month we hold a firmwide meeting discussing goals, initiatives, recruitment, revenue and more. We also have an intranet where news and information are regularly shared and highlighted.
What are some fun perks you provide employees?
Our Day of Giving program allows each office or studio to choose a non-profit organization to support, and employees spend a full (paid) day onsite helping out. Activities this past year ranged from clearing brush to preparing meals to constructing homes to painting murals. We host Summer and Winter holiday parties for each office and have special lunches, happy hours, culinary competitions, and costume contests at various intervals throughout the year.