Why Dublin? Veeva

This video provides a concise look into the operational expansion strategy of Veeva Systems, a leading provider of enterprise cloud software for the global life sciences industry. The presentation features Katherine Halls House, the Global CIO and Head of Operations for Veeva, explaining the strategic decision behind establishing Dublin, Ohio, as the company’s second major regional hub outside its San Francisco Bay Area headquarters. The core message is that Veeva’s rapid growth necessitated a significant expansion, and the selection process prioritized locations that offered both operational advantages and a high quality of life conducive to employee retention and relocation.

Veeva Systems, founded 12 years prior to the video and boasting approximately 2,600 employees across 24 global offices, experienced growth so rapid that it required a substantial second location within the United States. The company undertook an extensive search, evaluating prominent tech and business centers such as Austin, Nashville, and Portland, Oregon. Ultimately, Dublin, Ohio, was selected based on a combination of logistical and cultural factors. The decision was heavily influenced by the community's appeal, which was noted to be reminiscent of some Northern California towns where Veeva maintains its primary base.

The appeal of Dublin centered on its ability to attract and retain talent through lifestyle benefits. Employees who relocated cited the convenience of being able to walk to work, coupled with the community's diverse nature and small-town feel, which includes amenities like a farmers market, alongside access to quality dining, shopping, and entertainment. From an operational standpoint, Veeva highlighted Dublin’s proactive approach to supporting its business community. The city actively engages in outreach, encouraging local enterprises to network, meet, and share ideas, which fosters a close-knit, collaborative ecosystem. This supportive environment was deemed essential for sustaining the growth trajectory of a global technology company operating in a highly specialized sector like life sciences.

The insights provided by the Global CIO underscore that for a specialized technology firm like Veeva, location strategy is not solely about cost or proximity to talent pools, but also about creating an environment where employees thrive and businesses can interact effectively. The choice of Dublin reflects a mature strategy focused on long-term sustainability, talent satisfaction, and leveraging local government support to enhance business connectivity. This strategic move ensures Veeva can continue to scale its operations while maintaining the cultural and community values that appeal to its workforce.

Key Takeaways: • Rapid Operational Scaling: Veeva Systems, a major enterprise cloud software provider for the life sciences industry, required a "second big regional hub" in the U.S. to accommodate its rapid growth, highlighting the intense scaling demands within the regulated software sector. • Extensive Location Scouting: The selection of Dublin, Ohio, followed a rigorous evaluation process that included other high-growth markets such as Austin, Nashville, and Portland, Oregon, indicating a strategic, data-driven approach to expansion. • Prioritizing Quality of Life for Talent: The final decision was significantly influenced by lifestyle factors, with Dublin offering a diverse community and a small-town atmosphere that was specifically noted to be reminiscent of Veeva’s Northern California home base. • Successful Employee Relocation: The company noted successful employee relocations, with staff choosing Dublin not only for professional reasons but also for the quality of life, including the convenience of being able to walk to work. • Community Amenities as a Draw: Dublin’s blend of small-town features (like a farmers market) and urban amenities (restaurants, shopping) was crucial in appealing to a diverse, mobile workforce accustomed to high-quality living standards. • Strategic Municipal Business Support: A key operational advantage cited was Dublin’s strong municipal outreach to businesses, actively fostering networking and idea sharing among local companies, which creates a supportive ecosystem for technology firms. • Leadership Validation: Katherine Halls House, Global CIO and Head of Operations, explicitly endorsed Dublin as the "perfect place for a growing global technology company," confirming the strategic alignment of the location with Veeva's long-term corporate goals. • Scale of Operations: At the time of the video, Veeva operated with approximately 2,600 employees across 24 global offices, underscoring its position as one of the largest providers of enterprise cloud software globally. • Strategic Hub Model: Establishing a second major hub allows Veeva to diversify its operational base and mitigate risks associated with relying solely on the San Francisco Bay Area, ensuring business continuity and access to different regional talent pools.

Tools/Resources Mentioned:

• Veeva Systems Inc. (Cloud-based software for the global life sciences industry)

Examples/Case Studies:

• Dublin, Ohio: Selected as Veeva’s second global headquarters/regional hub in the U.S. after evaluating locations like Austin, Nashville, and Portland, Oregon. The choice was based on community fit, quality of life, and strong business outreach programs.