Remote & WFH Philosophy

Introduction

We believe clarity in relational expectations is healthy for all parties. When it comes to how and where we work, we’ve evolved a structure that reflects the reality of today’s workforce—without compromising our culture, collaboration, or excellence. As we continue to deliver world-class creative, solve complex challenges, and achieve meaningful goals for our clients, we’re always seeking A-Player talent to join us on the journey. This post outlines the three categories of team relationships at PD, how they differ, and what you can expect.

Types of Team Members

 
To balance flexibility with cultural fit, we recognize three general types of team members:
 

Core Team

 
Who: Full-time teammates working primarily from one of our offices in Toronto or Hanoi.

Why: You’re all-in. You want to grow, mentor, lead, and be led. You thrive on in-person collaboration, feedback, and development.

Expectations:

• Regular in-office presence (minimum 3x per week for local hires)
• Participation in cultural events, training, and mentorship
• High commitment to PD’s values and long-term goals

Benefits:

• Priority for professional development and promotion
• First to be considered for leadership roles
• Deepest cultural and strategic alignment with PD

Remote Culture-Engaged Team

Who: Full-time teammates who work remotely but are actively engaged in PD culture.

Examples: Enhance in the UK , Spark & Melody in BC

Why: You want to grow with PD, contribute to culture, and stay connected — even if you can’t make it to a physical office.

Expectations:

• Participation in virtual culture events, training, and team rituals
• Strong communication, accountability, and presence
• Aligned values, proactive engagement

Benefits:

• Opportunities for growth and recognition
• Consideration for promotions and long-term roles
• Inclusion in cultural and strategic activities

Specialist Contractors

Who: Project-based or contract teammates focused primarily on execution.

Why: You’re highly skilled in your craft, self-sufficient, and prefer to stay outside the day-to-day team rituals.

Expectations:

• Deliver excellent work, on time and with minimal supervision
• Uphold PD’s standards for quality and professionalism
• No expectation of cultural participation or mentorship

Benefits:

• Greater autonomy and flexibility
• Focused scope of work and expectations

Conclusion: Choosing the Right Fit

At PD, you have the opportunity to self-select (or co-select with PD) the type of relationship that suits you best. If you want to grow as a leader, invest in the culture, and be part of the long game, the Core Team or Remote Culture-Engaged roles are ideal. If you’re a top-tier executor who just wants to get the work done, we still want to work with you—just with a different set of expectations.

No role is “lesser” than the other. Each serves a purpose, and clarity benefits everyone.

Further Reading

FAQs

• 🧭 How do I know which category I belong to?
  During the hiring process (or a role change), we’ll determine this together based on your role, your location, your interests, and your long-term goals. The three categories aren’t about hierarchy — they’re about clarity of expectations and commitment.
• 🏢 I live near an office. Can I choose to work remotely full-time?
  Yes — but let’s be clear of the trade-offs. Choosing to work remotely while living near a PD office means you’ll likely miss out on the many benefits of in-office life. From mentorship and growth opportunities to spontaneous conversations and face-time with leadership, the in-office experience offers unique value. You’ll still be part of the team, but the depth of your involvement and development may differ.
• 🌎 I live abroad. Can I still be part of the culture?
  Yes! If you’re committed to showing up — joining online meetings, attending cultural events, and contributing beyond your tasks — you can absolutely be considered a Remote Culture-Engaged teammate. We appreciate teammates who go the extra mile to stay connected.
• 💼 I just want to do my job — no extra stuff. Is that okay?
  Totally. That’s the Specialist Contractor path. You won’t be expected to attend cultural events or internal rituals. You’re here to do great work, reliably and independently. We value that, too.
• 🧠 I want to grow, be mentored, and eventually lead. What’s the best path?
  Join the Core Team. In-office (or hybrid) teammates in Toronto or Hanoi get the richest access to leadership, mentorship, and long-term growth opportunities. This is where the most investment from PD goes.
• 🛫 I’m moving. Can I change my category?
  Yes — but it’s a conversation. If your life circumstances change, talk to your leader. We’ll assess whether your role still fits your new location, and if expectations should shift accordingly.
• 🔄 Can I shift categories later?
  Yes, with alignment. As long as it’s a mutual fit, we’re open to evolving the relationship. We want long-term partnerships, not one-size-fits-all employment.

Relationship Matrix

Benefits of Working In-Office

Working from a PD office is about plugging into the culture, the energy, and the momentum of a team with purpose and the many exciting missions on the go. Here’s what you stand to gain: