Founder of $100M Late July Encourages Work-Life Balance, But Sets a Different Example

Nicole Bernard Dawes, founder of the $100 million company Late July, has established a unique approach to work-life balance among her employees. While she encourages her team to disconnect from work once they are off the clock, Dawes herself rarely unplugs from the job, citing a sense of responsibility to her team. In an interview with Fortune, Dawes acknowledged the irony of her situation, stating, "I think I probably am a little bit of a hypocrite, because I don't unplug. I never do." She emphasized the importance of being available to her team, saying, "I never want to be the person that's holding up a member of our team." Dawes' stance on work-life balance has sparked debate among entrepreneurs, who question whether it is possible to scale a multimillion-dollar business while maintaining a healthy work-life balance. Late July, a leading organic and non-GMO tortilla chip brand, was founded by Dawes in 2003. The company has since become a household name, with its products lining the shelves of major retailers such as Target, Whole Foods, Kroger, and Walmart. In 2014, Campbell's acquired a majority stake in the business, eventually purchasing the remaining shares in 2017. Under Dawes' leadership, the company has experienced significant growth, with annual sales reportedly exceeding $100 million. Dawes' approach to work-life balance is not unique to her company, but rather a reflection of the challenges faced by many entrepreneurs. According to a recent survey, 71% of small business owners reported working more than 50 hours per week, with 45% stating that they worked more than 60 hours per week. Dawes' decision to prioritize her team's work-life balance may be seen as a nod to the importance of employee well-being, particularly in the face of increasing demands and expectations. While Dawes' stance on work-life balance may be seen as hypocritical, her commitment to her team's well-being is clear. As she noted, "They didn't sign up to be entrepreneurs; they signed up to be part of a team." Dawes' approach serves as a reminder that, even in the fast-paced world of entrepreneurship, prioritizing employee well-being can have long-term benefits for both the company and its employees. Late July continues to operate under Campbell's ownership, with Dawes serving as a key advisor to the company. As the company looks to the future, Dawes' commitment to her team's work-life balance is likely to remain a key aspect of its success.