Ecolab CEO Christophe Beck on Downtown St. Paul’s Challenges
Editor’s Note: This interview was conducted in fall 2024 and appeared in TCB’s October/November print issue.
Christophe Beck is the president and CEO of Ecolab, a global company that generated $15 billion in sales in 2023. It is headquartered in downtown St. Paul. Beck serves on the Saint Paul Downtown Alliance board and co-chaired the steering committee that developed a downtown investment strategy. While traveling internationally, Beck responded via email to TCB questions about the future of downtown. Here are edited excerpts.
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TCB: What problems should be addressed first and who needs to take the lead?
Christophe Beck: When talking about public safety, homelessness, and economic development growth, the main thing to remember is that these issues are very much intertwined. And solving community issues requires a community solution. What I am getting at here is that true collaboration is the only answer. Only when government, private sector, and nonprofit organizations come together can we foster positive, real change.
Take, for example, the public health issue of homelessness. Ecolab has been a long-standing supporter of key nonprofits like Catholic Charities and has hosted two summits with Catholic Charities, state and local leaders including Mayor Carter’s office, and business partners like Securian and Travelers. [It’s important to have] these organizations sitting around one table working to identify resources to meet unsheltered individuals where they are to offer help, hope, and to address the root societal causes of homelessness.
What is Ecolab’s policy on hybrid and remote work for employees attached to the downtown St. Paul headquarters?
Our more than 1,400 Ecolab global headquarters associates in St. Paul are typically in the office three or more days a week. We recognize that in-person interactions are a key part of our collaborative culture. On average, we have more than 700 associates at our global headquarters every day, with many of them taking advantage of St. Paul’s restaurants for lunch or gatherings after the workday.
Is strengthening public safety the foundation for revitalizing downtown?
Public safety is an essential part of economic vitality. I have worked closely with St. Paul Police Chief Axel Henry, as well as his predecessor, retired Police Chief Todd Axtell. [Ecolab and other companies] understand that if people do not feel safe in places, or after certain times of day, then they will not visit our city. Safety will always be our highest priority.
You’ve traveled the world extensively. Are there elements of what you’ve seen in foreign cities that you’d like to see incorporated into a revitalized St. Paul?
Many of my favorite cities are filled with vibrancy and activity. All cities are unique in how they create this, but it tends to be centered around cultural hubs, natural landmarks, and entertainment areas. St. Paul is no different. We have many of these components that need to be supported and emphasized to build upon the existing history, vitality, and energy for residents and visitors.
Tell me about the $2 million Ecolab is spending on a beautification project?
We actually expect our $2 million investment to end up being significantly larger. Last fall, we spent close to $1 million upgrading the space directly outside the entrance of our global headquarters. Next spring, we plan to spend that much and more on Hamm Plaza. I am absolutely optimistic about the future of downtown St. Paul. We have seen our city grow and change, and through good and challenging times, St. Paul has always persevered.
