Joshua Bote

A Salesforce senior director based in San Francisco alleged in a lawsuit that she was illegally laid off while on leave for a “serious health crisis.”

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A Salesforce senior director based in San Francisco alleged in a lawsuit that she was illegally laid off while on leave for a “serious health crisis.”

Attorneys for Dina Zelikson filed the suit accusing the tech company of discrimination, retaliation, wrongful termination and a violation of California’s worker leave laws in a complaint filed in San Francisco Superior Court Monday.

Attorneys for Dina Zelikson filed the suit accusing the tech company of discrimination, retaliation, wrongful termination and a violation of California’s worker leave laws in a complaint filed in San Francisco Superior Court Monday.

Zelikson alleges in the lawsuit she was just one of many pieces of “deadwood”—defined in the suit as “unproductive employees on leave”—that were cut as part of Salesforce’s layoffs earlier this year. The layoffs hit around 10% of Salesforce’s worker base, affecting more than 7,000 workers globally.

Zelikson alleges in the lawsuit she was just one of many pieces of “deadwood”—defined in the suit as “unproductive employees on leave”—that were cut as part of Salesforce’s layoffs earlier this year. The layoffs hit around 10% of Salesforce’s worker base, affecting more than 7,000 workers globally.

Zelikson is seeking a jury trial and unspecified damages for economic loss, emotional distress and punitive damages, along with attorney’s fees.

Zelikson is seeking a jury trial and unspecified damages for economic loss, emotional distress and punitive damages, along with attorney’s fees.

A Salesforce spokesperson declined to comment on the lawsuit.

A Salesforce spokesperson declined to comment on the lawsuit.

In the suit, she did not mince words about her former employer or its CEO, Marc Benioff, characterizing the company’s self-branding as “a family environment,” using the Hawaiian term Ohana, as mere “lip service.” The lawsuit even took a shot at <a href="https://sfstandard.com/search/?query=salesforce%20tower">the Salesforce Tower</a>, calling it a “giant phallic symbol changing the San Francisco skyline.”

In the suit, she did not mince words about her former employer or its CEO, Marc Benioff, characterizing the company’s self-branding as “a family environment,” using the Hawaiian term Ohana, as mere “lip service.” The lawsuit even took a shot at <a href="https://sfstandard.com/search/?query=salesforce%20tower">the Salesforce Tower</a>, calling it a “giant phallic symbol changing the San Francisco skyline.”

Zelikson was initally hired at the company in mid-2020 as a director of global digital marketing focusing primarily on MuleSoft—a software company acquired by Salesforce in 2018. By April 2022, she had been promoted to a senior director role and had a “positive, interactive, and supportive working relationship” with her manager at the time, Salesforce vice president Rick Tolman.&nbsp;

Zelikson was initally hired at the company in mid-2020 as a director of global digital marketing focusing primarily on MuleSoft—a software company acquired by Salesforce in 2018. By April 2022, she had been promoted to a senior director role and had a “positive, interactive, and supportive working relationship” with her manager at the time, Salesforce vice president Rick Tolman.&nbsp;

But come August 2022, their working relationship soured, according to the suit. Zelikson was undergoing treatment to determine if brain tumors removed during a prior procedure had returned; she recently began suffering from “serious neurological symptoms and a newly diagnosed issue of high blood pressure” at the time.

But come August 2022, their working relationship soured, according to the suit. Zelikson was undergoing treatment to determine if brain tumors removed during a prior procedure had returned; she recently began suffering from “serious neurological symptoms and a newly diagnosed issue of high blood pressure” at the time.

Tolman allegedly began icing her out after she disclosed her condition, cutting scheduled meetings and not responding to her Slack messages. By October, Tolman allegedly reassigned Zelikson to another senior director and a friend of Tolman’s, the suit alleges, in an effort “to push her out as it was effectively demoting her.”&nbsp;

Tolman allegedly began icing her out after she disclosed her condition, cutting scheduled meetings and not responding to her Slack messages. By October, Tolman allegedly reassigned Zelikson to another senior director and a friend of Tolman’s, the suit alleges, in an effort “to push her out as it was effectively demoting her.”&nbsp;

In that meeting, Tolman allegedly said that Zelikson was “unreliable” due to having to take time off for her health concerns and questioned her “ability to perform her job in light of her recent health issues.” He also “referenced impending layoffs in a threatening manner.” By December, she had been formally approved for a three-month leave of absence.

In that meeting, Tolman allegedly said that Zelikson was “unreliable” due to having to take time off for her health concerns and questioned her “ability to perform her job in light of her recent health issues.” He also “referenced impending layoffs in a threatening manner.” By December, she had been formally approved for a three-month leave of absence.

About a month in, she allegedly received a text message from her new supervisor that she would be affected by the layoffs. “sorry it sucks so bad,” the message allegedly read. The company also neglected to provide any “clear and consistent” information about her termination date, the suit said; it was only when legal counsel took action that she received an exact date of when she was laid off.

About a month in, she allegedly received a text message from her new supervisor that she would be affected by the layoffs. “sorry it sucks so bad,” the message allegedly read. The company also neglected to provide any “clear and consistent” information about her termination date, the suit said; it was only when legal counsel took action that she received an exact date of when she was laid off.

Salesforce also denied her long-term disability coverage due to a paperwork snafu that her legal representatives deemed “common and bogus.” Zelikson is currently appealing the denial.

Salesforce also denied her long-term disability coverage due to a paperwork snafu that her legal representatives deemed “common and bogus.” Zelikson is currently appealing the denial.

This is the second lawsuit by a high-level Salesforce staffer in recent months; in July, <a href="https://www.sfgate.com/tech/article/salesforce-executive-lawsuit-genie-software-18301778.php" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">a senior vice president sued the company in Massachusetts federal court</a> over allegations of fraud and retaliation.

This is the second lawsuit by a high-level Salesforce staffer in recent months; in July, <a href="https://www.sfgate.com/tech/article/salesforce-executive-lawsuit-genie-software-18301778.php" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">a senior vice president sued the company in Massachusetts federal court</a> over allegations of fraud and retaliation.

Salesforce sacked exec on leave during ‘traumatic health crisis,’ suit alleges

Astrid Kane

Lauren Saria

Although the Salesforce Tower snatched the crown as the city’s tallest building, the newly renovated Transamerica Pyramid showed San Francisco <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2024/05/06/transamerica-pyramid-renovation-beacon/">who the real boss of the skyline is</a> Thursday. A spectacular laser-light projection graced the 853-foot icon’s east facade, with the Thievery Corporation performing live in the redesigned redwood grove below.

Exclusive: The Transamerica Pyramid’s renovation is underway. We got a peek from the top

Although the Salesforce Tower snatched the crown as the city’s tallest building, the newly renovated Transamerica Pyramid showed San Francisco <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2024/05/06/transamerica-pyramid-renovation-beacon/">who the real boss of the skyline is</a> Thursday. A spectacular laser-light projection graced the 853-foot icon’s east facade, with the Thievery Corporation performing live in the redesigned redwood grove below.

It was all in celebration of the skyscraper’s grand reopening. Under the canopy of towering redwoods, both illuminated from below and strung with lights, guests sampled skewers of grilled chicken thighs topped with a heap of leek and coconut slaw and croquettes filled with curry-spiced fig jam and a shower of Parmesan — an indication of owner Michael Shvo’s <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2024/08/19/new-transamerica-pyramid-restaurants/">aspirations for the building to become a food destination</a>.

Can the Transamerica Pyramid become a food hub? This star chef is betting on it

It was all in celebration of the skyscraper’s grand reopening. Under the canopy of towering redwoods, both illuminated from below and strung with lights, guests sampled skewers of grilled chicken thighs topped with a heap of leek and coconut slaw and croquettes filled with curry-spiced fig jam and a shower of Parmesan — an indication of owner Michael Shvo’s <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2024/08/19/new-transamerica-pyramid-restaurants/">aspirations for the building to become a food destination</a>.

A laser show is seen during at the opening party for the official re-opening of the Transamerica Pyramid San Francisco on September 12,  2024. The iconic building was renovated and parts of it were re-opened to the public with a party featuring a laser light snow and a  concert with Thievery Corporation.

<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/20240912_transamericapyramidlighting_aar_8-edited.jpg" alt="A bronze-colored statue holds a bouquet of vivid pink and red flowers in front of a tall, illuminated triangular skyscraper under a dark night sky." class="wp-image-311336"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">A spectacular laser-light projection graced the 853-foot icon’s east facade.</figcaption></figure>

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<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/20240912_transamericapyramidlighting_aar_8-edited.jpg" alt="A bronze-colored statue holds a bouquet of vivid pink and red flowers in front of a tall, illuminated triangular skyscraper under a dark night sky." class="wp-image-311336"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">A spectacular laser-light projection graced the 853-foot icon’s east facade.</figcaption></figure>

XXX at the opening party for the official re-opening of the Transamerica Pyramid San Francisco on September 12,  2024. The iconic building was renovated and parts of it were re-opened to the public with a party featuring a laser light snow and a  concert with Thievery Corporation.

<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/20240912_transamericapyramidlighting_aar_11-edited.jpg" alt="A group of people are looking upwards at night, with some holding their phones up. They are outdoors with illuminated trees and city lights in the background." class="wp-image-311335"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Guests at the reopening party gather under the canopy of towering redwoods, both illuminated from below and strung with lights.</figcaption></figure>

Thievery Corporation performs at the opening party for the official re-opening of the Transamerica Pyramid San Francisco on September 12,  2024. The iconic building was renovated and parts of it were re-opened to the public with a party featuring a laser light snow and a  concert with Thievery Corporation.

<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/20240912_transamericapyramidlighting_aar_12-edited.jpg" alt="Three musicians perform on an outdoor, forest-lit stage; a guitarist on the left, a singer in the center with a mic, and another vocalist on the right." class="wp-image-311340"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Thievery Corporation performs its genre-defying blend of trip-hop, world music, and downtempo EDM.</figcaption></figure>

There was comparatively little talk about how the Pyramid, bought by Shvo in 2020 for $650 million, is trying to sign commercial leases at <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2023/10/24/transamerica-pyramid-downtown-san-francisco-michael-shvo/">previously unheard-of rates for San Francisco</a>. Even less about the <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2024/06/26/core-club-michael-shvo-transamerica-pyramid-lawsuit/">controversies dogging owner Shvo’s other properties</a>, likely a relief for the building&#8217;s owner considering how the <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2024/09/12/shvo-must-go-banner-flown-above-transamerica-pyramid/">legal drama literally loomed over the ceremonies</a> earlier in the day.

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&#8216;Shvo must go&#8217; banner flown above Transamerica, trolling reopening party

There was comparatively little talk about how the Pyramid, bought by Shvo in 2020 for $650 million, is trying to sign commercial leases at <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2023/10/24/transamerica-pyramid-downtown-san-francisco-michael-shvo/">previously unheard-of rates for San Francisco</a>. Even less about the <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2024/06/26/core-club-michael-shvo-transamerica-pyramid-lawsuit/">controversies dogging owner Shvo’s other properties</a>, likely a relief for the building's owner considering how the <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2024/09/12/shvo-must-go-banner-flown-above-transamerica-pyramid/">legal drama literally loomed over the ceremonies</a> earlier in the day.

There was comparatively little talk about how the Pyramid, bought by Shvo in 2020 for $650 million, is trying to sign commercial leases at <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2023/10/24/transamerica-pyramid-downtown-san-francisco-michael-shvo/">previously unheard-of rates for San Francisco</a>. Even less about the <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2024/06/26/core-club-michael-shvo-transamerica-pyramid-lawsuit/">controversies dogging owner Shvo’s other properties</a>, likely a relief for the building&#8217;s owner considering how the <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2024/09/12/shvo-must-go-banner-flown-above-transamerica-pyramid/">legal drama literally loomed over the ceremonies</a> earlier in the day.

After a local media outlet erroneously indicated that the party was open to the general public, hundreds of people registered last-minute, and many succeeded in getting in. By 7 p.m., lines stretched north and south from the entrance at Mark Twain Alley and Sansome Street, with queues eventually wrapping around the corner. The wait for a cocktail at the bars was almost as long.

After a local media outlet erroneously indicated that the party was open to the general public, hundreds of people registered last-minute, and many succeeded in getting in. By 7 p.m., lines stretched north and south from the entrance at Mark Twain Alley and Sansome Street, with queues eventually wrapping around the corner. The wait for a cocktail at the bars was almost as long.

Miko Marker, a developer who builds premanufactured housing in the Central Valley, had never been inside the building before. “It’s bumping,” she said of the party. “It reminds me of Burning Man.”

Miko Marker, a developer who builds premanufactured housing in the Central Valley, had never been inside the building before. “It’s bumping,” she said of the party. “It reminds me of Burning Man.”

Nate Payne poses for a portrait at the opening party for the official re-opening of the Transamerica Pyramid San Francisco on September 12,  2024. The iconic building was renovated and parts of it were re-opened to the public with a party featuring a laser light snow and a  concert with Thievery Corporation.

<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/20240912_transamericapyramidlighting_aar_19.jpg?w=2000" alt="A man wearing sunglasses holds a drink in one hand and a phone in the other, posing in front of a tall, illuminated, triangular building at night." class="wp-image-311341"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">“We totally need more of this,” said Nate Payne, a graphic designer who grew up in the Fillmore, snapping a selfie.</figcaption></figure>

Light trails from a boat crossing the San Francisco Bay illuminated ate the water during a laser light show plays on the Transamerica Pyramid Center to inaugurate its reopening in San Francisco on Thursday, Sep. 12, 2024. Transamerica Pyramid Center, an historic block on the northern edge of San Francisco’s Financial District, is reopening following a $1 billion dollar investment by luxury real estate development firm SHVO and remastering by Pritzker Prize Laureate Lord Norman Foster and his global architecture firm Foster + Partners.

<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/20240911-transamericalightshow-jk-05-edited.jpg" alt="The image shows a city skyline at night with brightly lit buildings, dominated by a tall pyramid-shaped skyscraper illuminated in blue lights." class="wp-image-311310"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">A laser-light show ensures all eyes are on the Transamerica Pyramid Thursday to celebrate its reopening.</figcaption></figure>

Avni Barman looks up at a model of the Transamerica Pyramid at the opening party for the official re-opening of the Transamerica Pyramid San Francisco on September 12,  2024. The iconic building was renovated and parts of it were re-opened to the public with a party featuring a laser light snow and a  concert with Thievery Corporation.

<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/20240912_transamericapyramidlighting_aar_14-edited.jpg" alt="Three people admire a detailed architectural model of tall buildings in a dimly lit museum, with framed sketches and a small screen displayed on the walls behind them." class="wp-image-311349"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">“The Vertical City” exhibit features scale models of the Transamerica Pyramid and other Foster + Partners architectural projects worldwide.</figcaption></figure>

It was a very different scene from the tightly orchestrated parade of VIPs who spoke at a ribbon-cutting Thursday morning, among them Mayor London Breed, former Mayor Willie Brown, Board of Supervisors President Aaron Peskin, Shvo, and Norman Foster, <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2024/07/30/life-in-seven-songs-podcast-norman-foster/">the Bach-loving architect the developer hired</a> to reimagine the complex. Foster’s redesign doubled the amount of public space while leaving the Pyramid’s pale concrete exterior untouched.

Podcast: The original starchitect, Norman Foster, on the music that shaped him

It was a very different scene from the tightly orchestrated parade of VIPs who spoke at a ribbon-cutting Thursday morning, among them Mayor London Breed, former Mayor Willie Brown, Board of Supervisors President Aaron Peskin, Shvo, and Norman Foster, <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2024/07/30/life-in-seven-songs-podcast-norman-foster/">the Bach-loving architect the developer hired</a> to reimagine the complex. Foster’s redesign doubled the amount of public space while leaving the Pyramid’s pale concrete exterior untouched.

Partygoers milled about the redwood grove, now filled with animal sculptures, and stepped inside a first-floor gallery to view intricate scale models of <a href="https://www.fosterandpartners.com/news/foster-plus-partners-completes-restoration-of-iconic-transamerica-pyramid-center">Foster + Partners’ work worldwide</a>. That exhibit, “The Vertical City,” shows off the starchitect’s affection for latticework — <a href="https://thegherkin.com/">and phallic symbols</a> — in his designs. (Apple’s doughnut-shaped headquarters in Menlo Park, Foster’s other well-known Bay Area commission, was curiously excluded.)

Partygoers milled about the redwood grove, now filled with animal sculptures, and stepped inside a first-floor gallery to view intricate scale models of <a href="https://www.fosterandpartners.com/news/foster-plus-partners-completes-restoration-of-iconic-transamerica-pyramid-center">Foster + Partners’ work worldwide</a>. That exhibit, “The Vertical City,” shows off the starchitect’s affection for latticework — <a href="https://thegherkin.com/">and phallic symbols</a> — in his designs. (Apple’s doughnut-shaped headquarters in Menlo Park, Foster’s other well-known Bay Area commission, was curiously excluded.)

<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/20240912_transamericapyramidlighting_aar_13-edited.jpg" alt="A tall building is brightly illuminated with multi-colored lights and lasers, set against a dark night sky, with trees framing the sides." class="wp-image-311339"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Multicolored lasers dance over the pyramid’s facade in pulsating geometric forms.</figcaption></figure>

People gather underneath a projection of redwood trees at the opening party for the official re-opening of the Transamerica Pyramid San Francisco on September 12,  2024. The iconic building was renovated and parts of it were re-opened to the public with a party featuring a laser light snow and a  concert with Thievery Corporation.

<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/20240912_transamericapyramidlighting_aar_4-edited.jpg" alt="Two people's silhouettes are against a blue, starry background with tree-like patterns, and green plants are visible in the lower part of the image." class="wp-image-311344"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">The nighttime party contrasted from the tightly orchestrated parade of VIPs who spoke at a ribbon-cutting Thursday morning.</figcaption></figure>

Initially scheduled for 8:30 p.m., the light show began half an hour later, backed by the genre-defying duo Thievery Corporation’s blend of trip-hop, world music, and downtempo EDM. Multicolored lasers danced over the building in pulsating geometric forms, with a precision that ran nearly from base to beacon, including one of the Pyramid’s architectural “shoulders.”

Initially scheduled for 8:30 p.m., the light show began half an hour later, backed by the genre-defying duo Thievery Corporation’s blend of trip-hop, world music, and downtempo EDM. Multicolored lasers danced over the building in pulsating geometric forms, with a precision that ran nearly from base to beacon, including one of the Pyramid’s architectural “shoulders.”

Although many attendees seemed not to have heard of Shvo, they were hoping for something dramatic — something that would eclipse <a href="https://sf.curbed.com/2019/10/30/20928913/halloween-salesforce-tower-light-display-2019-show">the “Eye of Sauron” LED effect</a> that Salesforce Tower has done at Halloween.

Although many attendees seemed not to have heard of Shvo, they were hoping for something dramatic — something that would eclipse <a href="https://sf.curbed.com/2019/10/30/20928913/halloween-salesforce-tower-light-display-2019-show">the “Eye of Sauron” LED effect</a> that Salesforce Tower has done at Halloween.

“We totally need more of this,” said Nate Payne, a graphic designer who grew up in the Fillmore. Ticking off places like Dubai and Shanghai where lit-up towers are commonplace, he added, “It’s like we’re playing catch-up here in the world’s most beautiful city.”

“We totally need more of this,” said Nate Payne, a graphic designer who grew up in the Fillmore. Ticking off places like Dubai and Shanghai where lit-up towers are commonplace, he added, “It’s like we’re playing catch-up here in the world’s most beautiful city.”

A laser light show plays on the Transamerica Pyramid Center to inaugurate its reopening in San Francisco on Thursday, Sep. 12, 2024. Transamerica Pyramid Center, an historic block on the northern edge of San Francisco’s Financial District, is reopening following a $1 billion dollar investment by luxury real estate development firm SHVO and remastering by Pritzker Prize Laureate Lord Norman Foster and his global architecture firm Foster + Partners.

The Transamerica Pyramid has always been an icon. Now it’s an art installation

Noah Baustin

A San Francisco real estate firm is proposing a towering new Downtown skyscraper that would contain more than 600 apartments and alter the city’s skyline.

A San Francisco real estate firm is proposing a towering new Downtown skyscraper that would contain more than 600 apartments and alter the city’s skyline.

Bayhill Ventures, a local real estate and investment firm, said Thursday it is seeking city approval to develop 530 Howard St., near the intersection with First Street. The location is south of Market Street, just a block from the Salesforce Tower.

Bayhill Ventures, a local real estate and investment firm, said Thursday it is seeking city approval to develop 530 Howard St., near the intersection with First Street. The location is south of Market Street, just a block from the Salesforce Tower.

The company hopes to build an 840-foot-tall building containing 672 apartments, according to its announcement. The residences would be a mix of one-, two- and three-bedroom apartments available for lease.

The company hopes to build an 840-foot-tall building containing 672 apartments, according to its announcement. The residences would be a mix of one-, two- and three-bedroom apartments available for lease.

The skyscraper’s 72 stories would stand at 795 feet, with mechanical penthouse levels and screening features extending the structure to 844 feet, according to a project description filed with the city.&nbsp;

The skyscraper’s 72 stories would stand at 795 feet, with mechanical penthouse levels and screening features extending the structure to 844 feet, according to a project description filed with the city.&nbsp;

The building would be shorter than the 1,070-foot Salesforce Tower and stand just shy of the <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2022/11/30/tallest-buildings-in-san-francisco-sf/">853-foot-tall Transamerica Pyramid</a>.

What&#8217;s the second tallest building in SF?

The building would be shorter than the 1,070-foot Salesforce Tower and stand just shy of the <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2022/11/30/tallest-buildings-in-san-francisco-sf/">853-foot-tall Transamerica Pyramid</a>.

It will cost an estimated $268 million to build, according to the filing.

It will cost an estimated $268 million to build, according to the filing.

“We believe there continues to be a strong need and desire for housing in Downtown San Francisco, which will support a more diversified and balanced ecosystem for residents, businesses and their employees,” said Bayhill CEO Paul Paradis.&nbsp;

“We believe there continues to be a strong need and desire for housing in Downtown San Francisco, which will support a more diversified and balanced ecosystem for residents, businesses and their employees,” said Bayhill CEO Paul Paradis.&nbsp;

Located in the heart of Downtown, the tower would feature a fifth-floor bridge over Natoma Street leading straight to Salesforce Park. An elevator on Natoma Street would provide public access to the pedestrian bridge, according to the description.

Located in the heart of Downtown, the tower would feature a fifth-floor bridge over Natoma Street leading straight to Salesforce Park. An elevator on Natoma Street would provide public access to the pedestrian bridge, according to the description.

A rendering shows the proposed pedestrian bridge that would connect the 530 Howard St. apartment building to Salesforce Park.

<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/bridge-view-for-press-release.jpg?w=2500" alt="A bridge stretches next to a building, showing pedestrians walking next to flowers and trees." class="wp-image-222769"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">A rendering shows the proposed pedestrian bridge that would connect the 530 Howard St. apartment building to Salesforce Park.</figcaption></figure>

One-bedroom units would make up 424 of the apartments. There would be 180 two-bedroom units and 68 three-bedroom units, according to the project description.&nbsp;

One-bedroom units would make up 424 of the apartments. There would be 180 two-bedroom units and 68 three-bedroom units, according to the project description.&nbsp;

Plans call for a total of 68 “affordable” units, including 43 one-bedrooms, 18 two-bedrooms and seven three-bedrooms, the filings show.

Plans call for a total of 68 “affordable” units, including 43 one-bedrooms, 18 two-bedrooms and seven three-bedrooms, the filings show.

A three-level parking garage would provide 149 parking spaces and 34 bicycle spots.

A three-level parking garage would provide 149 parking spaces and 34 bicycle spots.

&#8220;This significant investment in our Downtown is another infusion of confidence and excitement for the future of San Francisco,” said Mayor London Breed in a statement. “Turning a parking lot into housing, including affordable housing, is exactly what we need to do to build a stronger, more resilient San Francisco.”

"This significant investment in our Downtown is another infusion of confidence and excitement for the future of San Francisco,” said Mayor London Breed in a statement. “Turning a parking lot into housing, including affordable housing, is exactly what we need to do to build a stronger, more resilient San Francisco.”

&#8220;This significant investment in our Downtown is another infusion of confidence and excitement for the future of San Francisco,” said Mayor London Breed in a statement. “Turning a parking lot into housing, including affordable housing, is exactly what we need to do to build a stronger, more resilient San Francisco.”

Currently, a vacant lot and a four-story office building sit on the land that the new tower would occupy, according to the company.

Currently, a vacant lot and a four-story office building sit on the land that the new tower would occupy, according to the company.

The current building at 530 Howard St. was originally built in 1908, according to city filings. During the 1910s, it was occupied by the Magnesia Asbestos Supply Co. before a rubber goods and leather clothing manufacturer took over the space from 1920 to 1966. Since the late ’70s, the building has been used as office space by architects, designers and other professionals.

The current building at 530 Howard St. was originally built in 1908, according to city filings. During the 1910s, it was occupied by the Magnesia Asbestos Supply Co. before a rubber goods and leather clothing manufacturer took over the space from 1920 to 1966. Since the late ’70s, the building has been used as office space by architects, designers and other professionals.

Another portion of the land was an auto repair garage from the 1940s through 1989, when it was demolished, according to the filings. It has been a parking lot ever since.

Another portion of the land was an auto repair garage from the 1940s through 1989, when it was demolished, according to the filings. It has been a parking lot ever since.

New skyscraper proposed for downtown San Francisco; it would be city’s third-highest

Kevin V. Nguyen

In 2022, Salesforce CEO Marc Benioff <a href="https://finance.yahoo.com/news/salesforce-benioff-return-to-office-mandates-160008378.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">boldly proclaimed</a> that “office mandates are never going to work.” Now his company is soft-pedaling its own policy.&nbsp;

In 2022, Salesforce CEO Marc Benioff <a href="https://finance.yahoo.com/news/salesforce-benioff-return-to-office-mandates-160008378.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">boldly proclaimed</a> that “office mandates are never going to work.” Now his company is soft-pedaling its own policy.&nbsp;

According to an internal memo reviewed by The Standard, San Francisco’s largest private employer has made the call to bring the majority of its employees back into the office, reversing a broad shift to remote work during the pandemic.&nbsp;

According to an internal memo reviewed by The Standard, San Francisco’s largest private employer has made the call to bring the majority of its employees back into the office, reversing a broad shift to remote work during the pandemic.&nbsp;

Select employees in sales, workplace services, data center engineering and&nbsp;onsite support technicians&nbsp;under the chief information officer will be required to come to the office four to five days a week, effective Oct. 1.

Select employees in sales, workplace services, data center engineering and&nbsp;onsite support technicians&nbsp;under the chief information officer will be required to come to the office four to five days a week, effective Oct. 1.

All other departments – including marketing, legal and product teams – will be designated “office-flex” — meaning they must come in at least three days a week. The company’s other engineering roles are also in this bucket, although they will be required to come in only at least 10 days each quarter.

All other departments – including marketing, legal and product teams – will be designated “office-flex” — meaning they must come in at least three days a week. The company’s other engineering roles are also in this bucket, although they will be required to come in only at least 10 days each quarter.

Unless working from a client site, the ability to be fully remote will be granted only on an exemption basis, the new guidelines say. One such exemption is for engineers working on Salesforce’s <a href="https://www.heroku.com/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Heroku platform</a>.&nbsp;

Unless working from a client site, the ability to be fully remote will be granted only on an exemption basis, the new guidelines say. One such exemption is for engineers working on Salesforce’s <a href="https://www.heroku.com/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Heroku platform</a>.&nbsp;

Per the memo, sent out last week, the guidelines are meant to “better clarify our in-person expectations.” To bolster in-person attendance, Salesforce will also roll out an internal dashboard to track data from employee badge scans (in the U.S. only), starting next month.&nbsp;

Per the memo, sent out last week, the guidelines are meant to “better clarify our in-person expectations.” To bolster in-person attendance, Salesforce will also roll out an internal dashboard to track data from employee badge scans (in the U.S. only), starting next month.&nbsp;

A person walks toward the security gates as others exit the elevators in the lobby at Salesforce Tower on Mission Street in Downtown San Francisco on Friday, Sept. 22, 2023. Tech sector companies in downtown San Francisco have begun to require staff and employees to return to work in their Downtown San Francisco office after working remote for many years during the Covid pandemic.

<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/20240202-businesstaxreform_004-edited.jpg" alt="A man with a backpack walks toward a sleek elevator lobby, while two women and a man walk away from it. The lobby has modern glass turnstiles and potted orchids." class="wp-image-292028"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">People walk towards the security gates in the lobby at Salesforce Tower in 2023.</figcaption></figure>

The company stated that employees will have “full visibility” of this data, which will measure attendance against quarterly goals set by each team. Notably, the dashboard will also track the average amount of voluntary time off employees take, which is time they can use for community service efforts.&nbsp;

The company stated that employees will have “full visibility” of this data, which will measure attendance against quarterly goals set by each team. Notably, the dashboard will also track the average amount of voluntary time off employees take, which is time they can use for community service efforts.&nbsp;

“Salesforce has always been a hybrid work company,” a spokesperson said in a statement. “Our guidelines focus on in-person connection, while also recognizing the value of working away from the office.”

“Salesforce has always been a hybrid work company,” a spokesperson said in a statement. “Our guidelines focus on in-person connection, while also recognizing the value of working away from the office.”

The push to return to the office comes as Salesforce cut around 300 roles this month, <a href="https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2024-07-15/salesforce-cuts-about-300-jobs-in-latest-sign-of-tech-austerity">Bloomberg reported,</a> on top of 700 laid off earlier this year. Early last year, the software company cut around 10% of its positions — about 7,000 employees.&nbsp;

The push to return to the office comes as Salesforce cut around 300 roles this month, <a href="https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2024-07-15/salesforce-cuts-about-300-jobs-in-latest-sign-of-tech-austerity">Bloomberg reported,</a> on top of 700 laid off earlier this year. Early last year, the software company cut around 10% of its positions — about 7,000 employees.&nbsp;

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Recently, the company has also been <a href="https://www.ft.com/content/6d0662ba-b033-49d7-849b-ea03a4689b98">fending off a push by activist investors</a> to prioritize profits amid slumping stock growth, although those efforts have since <a href="https://www.reuters.com/technology/activists-back-off-salesforce-after-share-price-recovery-2023-08-15/">receded</a>.&nbsp;

Recently, the company has also been <a href="https://www.ft.com/content/6d0662ba-b033-49d7-849b-ea03a4689b98">fending off a push by activist investors</a> to prioritize profits amid slumping stock growth, although those efforts have since <a href="https://www.reuters.com/technology/activists-back-off-salesforce-after-share-price-recovery-2023-08-15/">receded</a>.&nbsp;

During the pandemic shutdown, Salesforce joined a string of blue-chip tech firms in San Francisco in <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2024/04/24/how-much-big-tech-pulled-back-in-san-francisco/">retreating en masse from its downtown office presence</a> due to the shift to remote work. As a result, the city has the <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2024/06/26/san-francisco-office-vacancy-rate-record-experts-change/">highest office vacancy rate</a> in the nation, at 37%, according to real estate firm CBRE.&nbsp;

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During the pandemic shutdown, Salesforce joined a string of blue-chip tech firms in San Francisco in <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2024/04/24/how-much-big-tech-pulled-back-in-san-francisco/">retreating en masse from its downtown office presence</a> due to the shift to remote work. As a result, the city has the <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2024/06/26/san-francisco-office-vacancy-rate-record-experts-change/">highest office vacancy rate</a> in the nation, at 37%, according to real estate firm CBRE.&nbsp;

The Moscone Center was filled with thousands of people who attended Dreamforce in San Francisco on Tuesday, Sept. 12, 2023. At this year’s event, there was a significant presence of AI tools, and discussions revolved around Salesforce’s efforts to protect users’ data. However, many individuals were unmasked, and few COVID-19 protocols were observed despite the recent rise in COVID-19 cases in San Francisco.

<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/INLINED05_WeirdestStuffDreamforcePix.jpg?w=2500" alt="The image shows a crowded event entrance labeled &quot;Dreamforce National Park,&quot; decorated with large, cartoonish statues, colorful hot air balloons, and green foliage under a clear sky." class="wp-image-201208"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">The Moscone Center was filled with thousands of people who attended Dreamforce in San Francisco on Sept. 2023. </figcaption></figure>

Salesforce employees will be returning to significantly less office space than they were accustomed to pre-pandemic.&nbsp;

Salesforce employees will be returning to significantly less office space than they were accustomed to pre-pandemic.&nbsp;

Last year, Securities and Exchange Commission filings revealed that the company had <a href="https://www.costar.com/article/1145439868/salesforce-cuts-san-francisco-office-footprint-by-45-over-past-year-%E2%80%94-and-it-may-not-be-done">trimmed 45%</a> of its office footprint, which included <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2023/04/11/salesforce-looks-to-dump-its-remaining-office-space-at-salesforce-east/">ditching a tower known as &#8220;Salesforce East&#8221;</a> at 350 Mission St.&nbsp;

Salesforce is leaving a San Francisco office tower bearing its name

Last year, Securities and Exchange Commission filings revealed that the company had <a href="https://www.costar.com/article/1145439868/salesforce-cuts-san-francisco-office-footprint-by-45-over-past-year-%E2%80%94-and-it-may-not-be-done">trimmed 45%</a> of its office footprint, which included <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2023/04/11/salesforce-looks-to-dump-its-remaining-office-space-at-salesforce-east/">ditching a tower known as "Salesforce East"</a> at 350 Mission St.&nbsp;

Last year, Securities and Exchange Commission filings revealed that the company had <a href="https://www.costar.com/article/1145439868/salesforce-cuts-san-francisco-office-footprint-by-45-over-past-year-%E2%80%94-and-it-may-not-be-done">trimmed 45%</a> of its office footprint, which included <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2023/04/11/salesforce-looks-to-dump-its-remaining-office-space-at-salesforce-east/">ditching a tower known as &#8220;Salesforce East&#8221;</a> at 350 Mission St.&nbsp;

Other tech firms in San Francisco have been doing the same. The social platform X is <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2024/07/12/twitter-sheds-most-of-its-san-francisco-office/">marketing most of its Mid-Market headquarters</a> for sublease after thousands of employees were laid off last year. Half of Uber’s headquarters are <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2023/10/27/openai-uber-headquarters-mission-bay/">being subleased to OpenAI</a>, and a chunk of Airbnb’s campus <a href="https://www.sfchronicle.com/realestate/article/s-f-airbnb-scale-ai-off-real-estate-19482263.php">went to the emerging Scale AI</a>.&nbsp;

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Other tech firms in San Francisco have been doing the same. The social platform X is <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2024/07/12/twitter-sheds-most-of-its-san-francisco-office/">marketing most of its Mid-Market headquarters</a> for sublease after thousands of employees were laid off last year. Half of Uber’s headquarters are <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2023/10/27/openai-uber-headquarters-mission-bay/">being subleased to OpenAI</a>, and a chunk of Airbnb’s campus <a href="https://www.sfchronicle.com/realestate/article/s-f-airbnb-scale-ai-off-real-estate-19482263.php">went to the emerging Scale AI</a>.&nbsp;

Salesforce’s annual Dreamforce conference downtown — scheduled for Sept. 17-19 — is one of San Francisco’s biggest draws, although its <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2023/11/07/salesforce-dreamforce-san-francisco-2024/">future was briefly called into question</a> after Benioff said the city’s ongoing issues with homelessness and drug use had <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2023/08/29/report-marc-benioff-says-this-dreamforce-could-be-the-last-in-san-francisco/">given him pause</a>.&nbsp;

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Salesforce’s annual Dreamforce conference downtown — scheduled for Sept. 17-19 — is one of San Francisco’s biggest draws, although its <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2023/11/07/salesforce-dreamforce-san-francisco-2024/">future was briefly called into question</a> after Benioff said the city’s ongoing issues with homelessness and drug use had <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2023/08/29/report-marc-benioff-says-this-dreamforce-could-be-the-last-in-san-francisco/">given him pause</a>.&nbsp;

Correction: This article was updated to provide more detail on the return-to-office policies for engineering teams.

Correction: This article was updated to provide more detail on the return-to-office policies for engineering teams.

Salesforce mandates October return to office for most employees as layoffs continue

Rya Jetha

Employees at Andytown Coffee Roasters in Salesforce Park have gotten used to easing into the workweek with a slow Monday morning. But on the last day in September, the line to order coffee nearly reached the door, and cooks were working overtime with the panini press. 

Employees at Andytown Coffee Roasters in Salesforce Park have gotten used to easing into the workweek with a slow Monday morning. But on the last day in September, the line to order coffee nearly reached the door, and cooks were working overtime with the panini press.

One barista reported toasting more breakfast sandwiches than on any day in recent memory — let alone a Monday. 

One barista reported toasting more breakfast sandwiches than on any day in recent memory — let alone a Monday.

Similar scenes played out around the neighborhood as local businesses buzzed, with their owners thanking a major tech company for bringing workers back to the office. Salesforce, the city’s largest private employer, has begun requiring most San Francisco employees to come to the office four to five days a week.

Similar scenes played out around the neighborhood as local businesses buzzed, with their owners thanking a major tech company for bringing workers back to the office. Salesforce, the city’s largest private employer, has begun requiring most San Francisco employees to come to the office four to five days a week.

A crowd of people eats lunch at Salesforce Park as Salesforce employees are required to return to the office on Monday, September 30, 2024.

<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/img_9327.jpg?w=1875" alt="People are dining outdoors under leafy trees, seated on colorful chairs, with a modern building in the background." class="wp-image-317193"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Workers, back at the office, eat lunch Monday at Salesforce Park.</figcaption></figure>

A steady stream of employees, many donning Salesforce backpacks, marched down sidewalks that have been more or less empty on Mondays since the pandemic struck. Traffic jams and a cacophony of honks filled the streets in SoMa, where Salesforce occupies multiple buildings, including Salesforce Tower. Commuters piled out of buses and into Salesforce Transit Center, the regional hub located below Salesforce Park.&nbsp;

A steady stream of employees, many donning Salesforce backpacks, marched down sidewalks that have been more or less empty on Mondays since the pandemic struck. Traffic jams and a cacophony of honks filled the streets in SoMa, where Salesforce occupies multiple buildings, including Salesforce Tower. Commuters piled out of buses and into Salesforce Transit Center, the regional hub located below Salesforce Park.&nbsp;

“It’s a big thing they are coming back to work,” said Dario Barbone, owner of Aurora Centro, an Italian deli in Salesforce Park. Unlike many tech companies, Salesforce does not have an in-house cafeteria, which meant local eateries thrived during the workday lunch rush before the pandemic. Now that workers are back, Barbone says, “it’s the best-case scenario for us.”&nbsp;

“It’s a big thing they are coming back to work,” said Dario Barbone, owner of Aurora Centro, an Italian deli in Salesforce Park. Unlike many tech companies, Salesforce does not have an in-house cafeteria, which meant local eateries thrived during the workday lunch rush before the pandemic. Now that workers are back, Barbone says, “it’s the best-case scenario for us.”&nbsp;

This week’s return-to-office mandate, which applies to select Salesforce employees in sales, workplace services, data-center engineering, and on-site support, reverses a broad shift to remote work during the pandemic that saw blue-chip tech firms in San Francisco <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2024/04/24/how-much-big-tech-pulled-back-in-san-francisco/">retreating en masse from downtown</a>.&nbsp;

This week’s return-to-office mandate, which applies to select Salesforce employees in sales, workplace services, data-center engineering, and on-site support, reverses a broad shift to remote work during the pandemic that saw blue-chip tech firms in San Francisco <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2024/04/24/how-much-big-tech-pulled-back-in-san-francisco/">retreating en masse from downtown</a>.&nbsp;

The city is still reeling from the pullback. More than a third of offices in San Francisco are vacant, according to preliminary third-quarter data from real estate firm JLL.&nbsp;

The city is still reeling from the pullback. More than a third of offices in San Francisco are vacant, according to preliminary third-quarter data from real estate firm JLL.&nbsp;

The downturn has hurt local businesses. But on Monday, lines of hungry workers waited for a salad or sandwich at downtown eateries.

The downturn has hurt local businesses. But on Monday, lines of hungry workers waited for a salad or sandwich at downtown eateries.

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