FOCUS ON Business #2 January-February 2022

focusonbusiness.eu No. 1 (2) | January–February 2022 ISSN 2720-3549 PRICE EUR 6 (INCL. 8% VAT)

We have an impact for a better tomorrow Magdalena Olborska, CSR Manager in Samsung Electronics Poland | p. 34

Your HR in our hands!

Trust 20 years experience!

outsourcing

permanent recruitment

kontakt@grupaprogres.pl www.grupaprogres.pl

industry reports

blue collar employees

quick recruitment

INTRODUCTION

Dear Readers, Hereby I invite you to the second edition of the FOCUS ON Business magazine.

For the good opening of 2022, we decided to draw attention to an important topic, which is corporate social responsibility. CSR is presented on our pages based on best practices coming from tech giant – Samsung.

The opening of the year is also a good time to look at important legal issues.

Nowadays, when legislation can change very dynamically, it is worth following and adapting to the requirements of the newly created law. In the legal section, we invite you to read publications focused on the Polish Deal and the activity of employees in social media.

Law, investments, business and HR are the areas with which we are opening the year 2022 on the FOCUS ON Business pages. All of them are also presented on an ongoing basis on our websites, to which I cordially invite you.

Editor in Chief

Editorial office EDITOR-IN-CHIEF: Dymitr Doktór | dymitr.doktor@proprogressio.pl MANAGING EDITOR: Elwira Przybylska | elwira.przybylska@proprogressio.pl DTP: Iwona Księżopolska ADVERTISING: reklama@proprogressio.pl PUBLISHED BY: Pro Progressio spółka z ograniczoną odpowiedzialnością spółka komandytowa ul. Dziekońskiego 1, 00-728 Warszawa www.proprogressio.pl EDITORIAL OFFICE ADDRESS: ul. Dziekońskiego 1, 00-728 Warszawa

Focus on Business | January–February 2022

Selected photos come from stock.adobe.com.

An electronic version of the Magazine see the website www.focusonbusiness.eu.

All rights reserved. No copying, reproduction or photocopying allowed without written consent of the publisher.

The views expressed in this publication as well as the content of the adverts are not necessarily those of the editor.

LEGAL SUPPORT: Chudzik i Wspólnicy

PRINT: Drukarnia Jantar CIRCULATION: 3000 copies PLACE AND DATE OF ISSUE: Warsaw, 20.01.2022 AUTHORS: Bartłomiej Babańczyk • Dorota Chudzik • Konrad Matuszewski • Natalia Jaskólska • Krzysztof Pimpicki • Michał Stangret • Piotr Augustyn • Magdalena Olborska • Julia Kozlenko • Ruta Krisciunaite • Jan Błażejewski • Arkadiusz Kosecki • Anna Tymoshenko • Joanna Dudar • Marek Jankowicz-Bogdański • Dominika Paciecha

3

INDEX

6 8 12 14 18 20 24 28 32 34 4

BUSINESS NEWS WIND OF CHANGE: The BSS Forum 2022 and 9 Outsourcing Stars Gala The most spectacular event of the modern business services sector is coming to Tri-City in Poland.

Employee activity in social media According to research, almost half of Poles confirms that they actively use social media.

Polish Deal – The New Way of Business Entrepreneurs began 2022 in a completely different tax reality.

Corporate Social Responsibility – hot or not?

It became evident that the situation on the recruitment market has changed and companies outdo one another to obtain the attention of the candidate.

Time Eaters. The first such calculator Even 1.3 million PLN per year can be gained by a small shared service thanks to elimination of the so-called time eaters.

Flex Office – modern solutions on office space market What distinguishes the Flex Office from other forms of lease? Why is it worth using flexible office space? Piotr Augustyn answers these and other questions in interview.

Find the perfect office chair and increase workplace well-being.

Holistic approach to ergonomics in the office Recent data points towards some worrying health trends among office workers.

What will the office of the future look like?

Offices around the world are undergoing a major transformation.

MAIN INTERVIEW We have an impact for a better tomorrow Interview with Magdalena Olborska, CSR Manager in Samsung Electronics Poland.

Focus on Business | January–February 2022

38 42 44 46 50 52 56 60 62 64 66 Focus on Business | January–February 2022

INVESTMENT NEWS Lviv Tech – an Innovative Platform for IT Companies to Meet New Clients The event was attended by Lviv Mayor Andriy Sadovyi and Ivan Babichuk, Supervisory Board Chairman of Lviv IT Cluster.

2021 in Lithuania’s Global Business Services – a year of success With the third year of the COVID-19 pandemic making a start, the Lithuanian GBS sector has not only kept its head above water but also achieved significant success.

What attracts investors to Bydgoszcz?

Why do investors choose Bydgoszcz and what support can they rely on from the City?

Here are some reasons to invest here.

Kielce supports the IT sector. Investment in human resources Kielce offers very good conditions for running a business in this sector.

Digitization – Necessity or Opportunity?

Jan Błażejewski from the IC Solutions company, based in Poznań, talks about the process of digitization in business.

Elbląg Technology Park – a place where science and business meets Interview with Arkadiusz Kosecki, Director of Elbląg Technology Park.

Employer Branding on Jura!!!

In 2021, for the fourth time, the city has become the autumn capital of employer branding.

HR NEWS What is the secret sauce to employer branding in BSS? Advanced business services are among the top leaders when it comes to the most attractive workplaces.

Knowledge of niche languages is an asset in the labor market Interview with specialists from Kelly Services, about the requirements for professional translators and the specificity of this profession.

5

BUSINESS NEWS

MOBILE PAYMENTS IN AFRICA CONTINUE TO GROW IN POPULARITY, PROVING IMPORTANCE OF LOCAL PAYMENT METHODS The total value of mobile money transac-

this LPM only grew with new pla­yers

but rather balances are topped up by

tions in emerging markets is predicted to

and more regional countries entering

purchasing prepaid airtime credits,

exceed $870 billion in 2026; this growth

the space. While mobile payments were

that can be purchased at thousands of

tendency can also be seen in sub-Saha-

not automatically available to each sub­�

shops or agent-kiosks even in the most

ran Africa, where mobile payments are

-Saharan country, as some still lacked

rural areas.

expected to grow by over 60% in the next

technical solutions, it has become a wide­­

Since much of Africa's popula-

5 years. Seen as one of prominent pay-

­ly spread trend that continues appearing

tion has limited access to financial ser-

ment trends in emerging markets for

in more African countries.

vices, the continent is regarded as one

2022, the popularity of mobile payments

Frank Breuss, CEO of Nikulipe,

of the world's most attractive banking

is emphasizing the importance of Local

a Fintech company creating and con-

opportunities for developing the exist-

Payment Methods, and could open up

necting Local Payment Methods to access

ing financial industry and introduc-

the African market to a number of global

Emerging and Fast-Growing Markets,

ing new products to improve financial

e-commerce opportunities.

notes that this payment trend has grown

accessibility. After previously disre-

popular due to the particular circum-

garding mobile money’s target market

ment Method (LPM) appeared in the sub-­ stances sub-Saharan Africa is in. He epha-

in favor of Africans with higher income,

-Saharan region in the early 2000s with

sizes that mobile phones in Africa are

Africa’s traditional banks are, too, look-

Safaricom, a Kenyan mobile network

used in a very different way than they are

ing into entering telecommunications

operator, offering one of the first mobile

in the US or Europe; they are often not

territory. This move by local banking

payment solutions. The importance of

based on monthly subscription models,

institutions indicates that the mobile

Mobile payments as a Local Pay-

payments market will continue growing in the upcoming years.

While mobile payment penetration varies from one sub-Saharan African country to another, at the end of 2020, 495 million people were using mobile services, which represents 46% of the region’s population. It is predicted that by 2025 this number will reach 615 million – equivalent to 50% of the region’s population. This shows that Local Payment Methods will remain an important part of not only sub-Saharan Africa’s but also fast-growing and emerging markets e-commerce growth.

6

Focus on Business | January–February 2022

HUSHWALL: FLEXIBLE DIVISION OF THE OFFICE The hushWall mobile wall is another solution from the Hushoffice collection, a brand belonging to Mikomax Smart Office. HushWall is a mobile partition designed following the agile office concept for flexible division of the office into zones, while ensuring a vertical work space. The mobile wall is made of a body that can be configured: as a mobile partition with a felt panel, as a movable wall with a whiteboard, and as a movable multimedia wall with a TV mount. The wall gives the possibility of creating new office division layouts and quickly adjusts to changing working conditions – without the need to involve installers and perform adaptation works in the office. HushWall allows to divide the office space so as to

The product is fully mobile and,

conference rooms, coworking spaces and

create workplaces adapted to the tasks

following the pattern of the entire Hush­

other flexi­ble spaces. HushWall is availa-

performed on an ongoing basis. HushWall

office line, it naturally extends the pos-

ble in two color versions with a cabinet

has the right weight to ensure exceptional

sibilities of working in the office. Dedi-

closed with a roller door.

wall stability while being easy to move.

cated to open space offices, auditoriums,

CHINESE STARTUPS RAISE $104.4 BN VC FUNDING IN 2021 a brief downturn. The announcement of several big-ticket deals during 2021 reflects investors’ appetite for placing bets on China is still bullish.

Despite the year-on-year growth, the month-on-month funding trend remained inconsistent throughout 2021.

Interestingly, there was a decline in deal volume in December while deal value grew significantly and in fact, it was the best month in terms of value during the year.

In fact, December 2021 alone witnessed announcement of 32 $100 million+ deals while 76 such deals were announced during the last quarter and a total of 262 deals in this range were announced during the year.

China’s regulatory crackdown on tech-

An analysis of GlobalData’s Finan-

Some of the notable VC funding

nology giants is not stopping the ven-

cial Deals Database reveals that deal vo­­­

deals announced in China during 2021

ture capital (VC) frenzy in the country.

lu­me too witnessed a staggering 31.9%

include $1.6bn raised by SVOLT Energy in

The VC market of the country in the wake

growth from 3,261 in 2020 to 4,302 in 2021.

August, $1.5bn capital raised by Horizon

of evolving regulatory landscape and

Aurojyoti Bose, Lead Analyst at

Robotics in June, $1.2bn raised by Nan-

COVID-19 pandemic surprisingly looks

GlobalData, comments: Investors seemed

jing Lingxing Technology (T3 Travel) in

upbeat. Chinese startups raised $104.4 bn,

to have become wary of China for some

October, $700m funding raised by Abo-

a growth of 48.9% year-on-year in 2021,

time on the back of a series of regulatory

gen Biosciences in August, and $750 m

finds GlobalData, a leading data and ana-

crackdowns on domestic companies. How-

capital raised by Beijing Shihui Tech­­­­­-

lytics company.

ever, funding activity picked soon after

n­ology in March.

Focus on Business | January–February 2022

7

BUSINESS

WIND OF CHANGE: The BSS Forum 2022 and 9 Outsourcing Stars Gala The Outsourcing Stars Gala – the most spectacular event of the modern business services sector is coming to Tri-City in Poland. For the ninth time, Pro Progressio will organize the most networking event in the BSS sector in Europe.

8

Focus on Business | January–February 2022

This time, the Outsourcing Stars Gala will be organized in the Tri-City, where, the evening event will be accompanied by the all-day The BSS Forum. During The BSS Forum, over a dozen meetings with experts from the BSS sector from Poland and around the world will be organized, and the entire event will be of a stationary nature. The main theme for the event in 2022 is Wind of change.

Focus on Business | January–February 2022

9

BUSINESS

In line with the leitmotif, for the first time Pro Progressio is also embracing the new formula of its annual event. This time, the Gala and Forum will be accompanied by job fairs and workshops for students and employees of the BSS sector. This is the first time that the event in Poland addresses its agenda not only to managerial staff, but also Polish and foreign employees interested in taking up employment in the modern business services sector.

10

Focus on Business | January–February 2022

Book the days April 5th–7th 2022 for a business trip to the Tri-City and follow the websites bssforum.com, where information about this year's Outsourcing Stars Gala, The BSS Forum and the My Work, My Development, My Choice Fair will be published on an ongoing basis.

The Strategic Partner of the event is Invest in Pomerania.

And here is how the Forum and Gala looked like in previous years:

Focus on Business | January–February 2022

11

BUSINESS

Employee activity in social media Text | Bartłomiej Babańczyk

According to research, almost half of Poles confirms that they actively use social media.

Labour law provisions cannot keep up with the rapidly changing reality and do not explicitly refer to employee activity in social media. However, it does not necessarily mean that the use of social media by an employee is not restricted in any way.

12

There is no doubt that skilful use of social

subject to any restrictions from the point

KEEPING INFORMATION CONFIDENTIAL

media might be successfully used in order

of view of labour law.

Activity of an employee in social media

to build a positive image of the employer.

The employee shall bear in mind

may even unintentionally lead to a dis-

Active support of employees through fol-

that his/her activity in social media might

closure of information, which should

lowing the company profile, sharing posts

breach, resulting from the article 100 §

never become available. It is easy to

published on the company profile or

2 point 1 of the Labour Code, a duty to

imagine a situation, in which a photo

running their own professional profiles

observe working time in the workplace

taken by the employee during working

might significantly support the commu-

(e.g. publishing private posts during

hours in the office, includes a part of

nicative strategy of the employer. How-

working hours), resulting from the arti-

a confidential document or the location

ever, sometimes the content published

cle 100 § 2 point 4 of the Labour Code,

of the photo reveals to the competitor,

in social media by an employee might be

a duty to take good care of the interests

the contractor with which the company

troublesome for the employer.

of the employing establishment (e.g. pub-

conducts negotiations.

lishing negative posts on the employer's

According to the article 100 § 2

RIGHT TO PRIVACY

activity), resulting from the article 100 §

point 4 of the Labour Code, one of

The employer is obliged to respect dig­­­-

2 point 4 of the Labour Code, a duty to

the basic duties of an employee is to keep

nity and other personal rights of the em­­­

keep secret information, the disclosure

secret information, the disclosure of

ployee, including the right to privacy.

of which may cause the employer to suf-

which may cause the employer to suf-

Therefore, it is usually assumed that,

fer (e.g. publishing confidential informa-

fer. Drawing negative consequences

as a rule, the employer has no right to

tion concerning clients or ongoing pro-

regarding the employee will not ena-

interfere in the content published by

jects), or finally, resulting from the article

ble the employer to repair the damage

the employees in private social media.

100 § 2 point 6 of the Labour Code, a duty

already caused by the disclosure of con-

However, it does not mean that the em-

to observe the rules of social coexistence

fidential information. Therefore, it seems

ployee activity in social media is not

(e.g. insulting co-workers).

that from the employer's point of view it

Focus on Business | January–February 2022

is more beneficial to prevent such sit­u­­­­­­ations through introducing clear rules (e.g. what can be considered as confidential) and raising awareness of the emplo­ yees (e.g what they should pay particular attention to).

CRITICISM OF THE EMPLOYER One of the issues that the employer sometimes faces in practice, is publishing in social media negative comments on the employer's activity by the employees (e.g. publishing critical comments on the organisational changes in case of im­­­plementing a new strategy). If the employer wants to draw consequences towards the employee, the right to allo­ wed criticism is a very often used argument by the employee.

In jurisprudence it is indicated that the 'allowed criticism' shall be charac­ terized by factuality, reliability, relevance to the specific facts and appro-

An issue, which sometimes faces the employer in practice, are inappropriate or insulting posts published by an employee regarding his/her co-workers.

priate form (Supreme Court judgement from 25th November 2014, file no. I PK

the applicable in a given place and time

the employer in case of an undesirable

98/14). Therefore, one may wonder, how

non-legislative, moral, ethical, custom-

employee's activity in social media.

much of appropriate form of criticism in

ary standards. Insulting co-workers may

It is worthwhile for the employer

a given case it is to publish the informa-

be the very violation of the rules of social

to set in the workplace regulations or

tion in question in social media.

coexistence (Supreme Court judgement

the social media policy the rules of social

In terms of assessment of the situ­

from 9 th July 2008, file no. I PK 2/08).

media use during working hours and by

ation and its possible consequences,

Therefore, it seems that publishing

means of the employer's equipment (e.g.

the intentions of the employee should

posts in social media may very well be

ban), use of the company's image (e.g. in­­

be taken into account. Publishing unau-

considered as a violation of the rules of

dicating own place of employment in

thorized information by the employee

social coexistence. In terms of assess-

social media), speaking on the company's

will not always justify termination of

ment of the situation, we should take

behalf (e.g. a disclaimer that only auth­o­

the employment contract on the basis of

into account not only the content but also

rized employees may speak on the com-

article 52 § 1 point 1 of the Labour Code,

other aspects of a case (e.g. whether or

pany's behalf).

if the intention of the employee was to

not the post is publicly available).

improve the situation (Supreme Court

Is also seems useful to indicate which actions of an employee may be

judgement from 16th November 2006,

POLICY REGARDING SOCIAL MEDIA

considered as a violation of the duty to

file no. II PK 76/06). It may however be

From the employer's point of view, it

take good care of the interests of the em-­­­

the cause of termination of the employ-

seems beneficial to clearly state the rules

ploying establishment, the duty to keep

ment contract due to the loss of trust and

of employee activity in social media.

secret information, the disclosure of

inability to further co-work together.

The employer may in this regard intro-

which may cause the employer to suf-

duce appropriate provisions to the work-

fer, the duty to observe the rules of

INSULTING CO-WORKERS

place regulations or decide to introduce

social coexistence. It shall be remem-

Another issue, which sometimes faces

a separate policy concerning social

bered that the rules should be introduced

the employer in practice, are inappro­­priate

media. Clear internal regulations may

with respect to the employee's right to

or insulting posts published by an em-

constitute a vital argument in favour of

privacy.

ployee regarding his/her co-workers.

The duty to observe the social rules of coexistence in the workplace, resulting from the article 100 § 2 point 6 of the Labour Code, includes among others, the obligation of an employee to behave appropriately towards his/her co-workers.

Author Bartłomiej Babańczyk Attorney-at-law, Baker McKenzie

It should be understood as the employee's behaviour being in accordance with

Focus on Business | January–February 2022

13

BUSINESS

Polish Deal – The New Way of Business Text | Dorota Chudzik & Konrad Matuszewski

Entrepreneurs began 2022 in a completely different tax reality. The legislator has introduced a vast number of fiscal changes for all taxpayers, which have affected entrepreneurs most severely. Moreover, the regulations were prepared in a hurry and will probably create many interpretation doubts during their application.

The legislator has included a broad range

of its increase cannot be avoided. Until

Another novelty in settlement of

of changes in the adopted law, star­ting

the end of 2021, the health contribu-

health contributions is their calcula-

with income taxes and moving on to

tion was a fixed amount, determined

tion method. Their amount will be cal-

enforcement proceedings, tax law, VAT,

based on the average salary determined

culated on a monthly and annual basis.

health insurance, and entrepreneurs'

by the Central Statistical Office. How-

In the case of a yearly settlement, three

law. The enormity of the changes is quite

ever, from the 2022, the health contribu-

scenarios may occur. In the first one,

a challenge for any entrepreneur.

tion will be a variable amount resulting

the amount of contributions paid is cor-

from the income achieved by the entre-

rect. In the second one, the contribu-

CHANGES IN HEALTH CONTRIBUTIONS

preneur. The change turns even more dif-

tions are underpaid, or, finally, the con-

One of the most significant changes affec­

ficult if we consider the way of accoun­

tribution may be overpaid. In the case of

ting entrepreneurs' "daily" settlement

ting for business.

an underpayment, the insured shall pay

duties is the health contribution. However, it is not its increase that makes a problem. Instead, the issue is about abolishing the possibility of deducting its part from the tax due. Unfortunately, the change has contributed to an increase in the volu­me of burdens resulting from a business.

From 2022, the health contribution will be a variable amount resulting from the income achieved by the entrepreneur. The change turns even more difficult if we consider the way of accounting for business.

Although, until now, entrepreneurs could reduce income tax amounts by a fraction

It should also be emphasised that in

the balance due. However, in the case of

of the health contribution paid, the new

the case of the tax scale and the flat tax,

an overpayment, the entrepreneur must

deal has repealed this provision.

the minimum health contribution will be

remember to file a request for a refund;

9% of the minimum salary applicable in

otherwise, the overpaid amount will not

the given tax year.

be reimbursed.

While remaining on the grounds of the health contribution, the subject

The changes in question affect

Entity

Basis

Amount

Tax rate

income

9%

Flat tax 19%

income

4,9%

of limited partnerships to CIT, partners'

Lump sum tax on registered revenue

<60,000: 9% on 60% MMS; 60-300,000: 9% on 100% MMS; >300,000: 9% on 180% MMS

ways because it constitutes a dividend.

revenue

partners in general and professional partnerships; limited partnerships may enjoy "preferential" treatment. Following the changes resulting from the transition

14

income is settled in none of the above Therefore, partners in limited partnerships will pay fixed rates of health contributions based on the MMS.

Focus on Business | January–February 2022

The alternations also affect appoin­

partnerships, and simple joint-stock com-

payment in a company being a small

ted functions. In the case of company

panies may benefit from Estonian CIT.

taxpayer will be 26.29%, in the case of

directors or proxies, the contribution shall

The upper threshold of PLN 100 million

a large taxpayer – 34.39%.

be calculated based on the remuneration received under the appointment.

The changes regarding the health contribution should be a motivating fac­­­­tor for each entrepreneur to verify the new burdens. But, unfortunately, the differences which have occurred do not make it possible to find a golden solu-

A positive change is the simplification of Estonian CIT. In the new wording of the act, limited partnerships, limited joint-stock partnerships, and simple joint-stock companies may benefit from Estonian CIT.

tion to suit everyone.

When discussing the changes, some

of revenue will also be abolished. Addi-

However, the peculiarities of Esto-

positive aspects of the Polish Deal should

tionally, another positive surprise comes

nian CIT must be remembered, the taxa­

also be mentioned. After all, entrepre-

with the termination of the investment

tion base in particular. Unlike the clas-

neurs can also find improvements in run-

obligation. In the original solution, a tax-

sical version, the taxable base includes

ning their businesses.

payer choosing this form of taxation was

profit distributions or their allocation to

obliged to incur certain capital expendi-

cover losses, hidden dividends, expenses

tures on fixed assets.

unrelated to business activities or undis-

MORE FAVOURABLE ESTONIAN CIT A positive change is the simplification

Another reason for considering this

of Estonian CIT. Primarily, the legisla-

form of taxation is the reduction of tax

Another advantage of using Esto-

tor decided to make this form of taxa-

rates, by which the total tax burden of

nian CIT is the possibility of avoiding

tion available to a broader group of enti-

CIT and PIT payments will be at the level

minimum CIT. First, however, let us

ties. In the new wording of the act, li­-

of 20%/25%. Just to illustrate, in the case

clarify the ambiguities that have arisen

mited partnerships, limited joint-stock

of classic CIT, the charge on the dividend

around this tax.

Focus on Business | January–February 2022

closed business operations.

15

BUSINESS

MINIMUM TAX The first one is the standard view that this tax will apply to large corporations only. But, unfortunately, the tax applies to all CIT subjects. At this point, it is neces­ sary to look at who can benefit from the minimum tax. The prerequisite for its application is either the occurrence of a loss or less than 1% of income share in the revenue.

Another questionable issue is the view that the tax will be payable on income. The tax base will not be the entire income but only 4% of it. Additio­ nally, the tax base will include other components such as debt financing costs incurred for the benefit of affiliated parties, the value of the deferred tax, costs

for the right to use assets belonging to

intra-group transactions in the Stan­

incurred for certain services provided to

the shareholder or a related party. How-

dard Audit File (JPK).

related parties.

ever, the two latter cases can be recogni­

However, entities wishing to form

sed as a company cost, provided that

a group will have to satisfy the statu-

HIDDEN DIVIDEND

the amount of the expense incurred for

tory conditions regarding affiliation, i.e.

Still, on CIT changes, the issue of hidden di­­­­­-

the hidden dividend is lower than the com-

financial, economic and organisational

vidends cannot be avoided. The concept

pany's gross profit in the given tax year.

links. These relate to the group "leader" holding 50% of the shares in the other

The hidden dividend shall be extended to all CIT taxpayers, disabling the recognition of expenses incurred as deductible costs. It applies to the expenses sustained in connection with a service provided by an affiliated party.

members, running a similar or complementary business, and remaining under the same management.

SUMMARY The issues mentioned above represent only a part of the changes that have en­­­

of hidden profits appeared when the Esto-

VAT GROUP

tered or will enter into force within

nian CIT was introduced at the begin-

Among positive aspects of the changes,

the tax changes enacted in the Polish

ning of 2021. Now, the hidden dividend

the VAT group may prove to be one. It

Deal. The forthcoming months will show

shall be extended to all CIT taxpayers,

is a new structure in the Polish tax sys-

how the originators interpret specific

disabling the recognition of expenses

tem allowing for "VAT exemption" within

issues. The issued interpretations and

incurred as deductible costs. Moreover,

a group. Moreover, the group principle of

rulings will allow for the proper applica-

it applies to the expenses sustained in

functioning does not seem overly com-

tion of the provisions, which today bring

connection with a service provided by

plicated because it is the group that will

many doubts. Nevertheless, every entre-

an affiliated party.

act as a VAT taxpayer. That means that

preneur should consider their public

Also, all company costs which de­­­

goods or services will be taxed on entry

and legal burdens related to their ope­

pend on the profit it makes will be a hid-

and exit from the group. VAT settlements

rations and reckon to reorganise their

den dividend. Other hidden dividends

in this respect will also be facilitated, as

businesses to mitigate the effects of

are unreasonable costs or consideration

there will be no obligation to record

the Polish Deal.

Authors

16

Dorota Chudzik

Konrad Matuszewski

general manager | tax advisor, Chudzik i Wspólnicy Radcowie Prawni

legal and tax consultant, Chudzik i Wspólnicy Radcowie Prawni

Focus on Business | January–February 2022

YOUR JOB, OUR WORK

pl.gigroup.com

BUSINESS

Corporate Social Responsibility – hot or not?

Text | Natalia Jaskólska

It became evident, especially with current perturbations related to COVID-19 situation, that the situation on the recruitment market has changed and companies outdo one another to obtain the attention of the candidate – especially those who represent so called niche profiles.

18

The task to attract experts in their fields

way within the organization? Is it essen-

implemented according to a specific

is currently even more challen­ging as

tial or perhaps it’s yet another trend that

strategy.

with globally changing situation, some

will fade over time?

Apart from building positive per-

of us took a step back and reflected on

By Corporate Social Responsibility

ception on the market, social responsi-

what are the values they’d like to see

we understand a concept according to

bility actions, incorporated into the e­­m-

implemented by the employer. Variety

which company focuses not only on its

ployer branding communication, have

of reports have shown that candidates

own interests and the growth, but also

positive impact upon recruitment and

currently put on the first place not only

on the problems of society. Some organi-

talent management. Looking at some

their remuneration expectations but

zations perceive CSR as a tool for PR stra­

data provided by IBD Business School

also work-life balance… and company’s

tegy which aims to warm up the com-

report, not only it reduces turnover up

social responsibility.

pany's image. However, for this con-

to 28%, but also the overall cost of hire

What is CSR, what impact it has

cept to be meaningful and appreciated

and speeds up the time to hire due to

on the employer branding and how to

in the eyes of the current or potential

the fact that candidates prefer to join

make sure it is implemented in proper

employees, it should be conscientiously

companies with sustainable principles.

Focus on Business | January–February 2022

As person responsible for recruitment and employer branding, I always believe that theory is one aspect but it’s always worth confronting it with the reality, hence I decided to conduct my own analy­sis. During the recruitment and interviewing process, I asked 10 candidates how essential for them are company’s CSR principles. 9 out of 10 candidates have replied that they are more attracted to organizations where social responsibi­ lity is actively communicated. 50% of my respondents declared that they wouldn’t work for a company with a poor sustainability reputation – even for a pay increase. I think it’s not a coincidence!

Social responsibility is definitely an additional value in terms of employer branding, but it also translates well into other aspects of the organization – the frequency of using company’s services, drawing the attention of potential investors, clients’ loyalty – the list of advantages is long, one only needs to ensure that the proposed strategy is not generating the reverse effect that

circulation, or turning off the power

the shelter for winter season as well as

is greenwashing. How to do so? In my

after work). Thanks to such activities,

a place to lay eggs. As a part of the action

view, the most important pillar relates

the company not only minimizes its nega­

we engaged our workers in the decision

to communicating the social responsi-

tive impact on the environment, but also

making process and finally, we ran a com-

bility promises that can be realistically

saves funds. The above also proves that

petition which task was to guess the loca-

achieved. Even if the company is not able

social responsibility is not only reserved

tions of the insect houses and make pho-

to start with great initiatives, local mar-

for international, large companies – small

tos of them. Simple, but how effective

ket is packed with companies that started

businesses could also work on it.

and engaging! What I’m also really proud of it that it’s not the one-time action in

By Corporate Social Responsibility we understand a concept according to which company focuses not only on its own interests and the growth, but also on the problems of society.

this field organized by our organization.

Nature clean-up action, ecological workshops, counting steps challenge to reduce CO2 emission are some of numerous actions arranged by our Forever Chocolate team responsible for raising the spirit of ecology in our company.

simple and have successfully attracted

Last but not least, it is also worth

CSR is still a fresh topic within

the audience. Looking at the recent FOB

mentioning that CSR can be also a part

Polish companies, however more and

Report "Responsible Business in Poland.

of fun! I would like to bring here some

more of them are convinced that over-

Good practices” one can observe some

example from my working experience. As

all the concept is valuable and worth

good practices in the field of social in­­

a part of our company’s employer bran­

implementing. I hope the above text

volvement, social campaigns or edu-

ding strategy, we have decided to set up

will convince more of us to bring it to

cational campaigns. Many companies

habitats for insects to help them find

the action!

run employee volunteering programs, often letting employees choose the initiative and selection of topics in which they would like to engage. There is also

Author

a cyclical increase in pro-ecological activi­ ties through the implementation of simple actions like eco-office (i.e. waste segregation in the office, double-sided print-

Natalia Jaskólska | Talent Acquisition and Employer Branding Specialist, Barry Callebaut

ing on ecological paper, minimizing printouts and relying on virtual document

Focus on Business | January–February 2022

19

BUSINESS CASE STUDY

Time Eaters.

The first such calculator Text | Krzysztof Pimpicki and Michał Stangret

Even 1.3 million PLN per year can be gained by a small shared service thanks to elimination of the so-called time eaters. The first calculator on the market was designed to quickly calculate the benefits of eliminating them in Business Services and Back/Middle Office teams.

Have you ever wondered what is the real

we don’t have enough time and energy

task statuses. Let's focus our attention

cost of your daily activities related to allo-

to complete tasks that provide real value

on the multiplicity of such activities per-

cating tasks to staff? How long does it

to the organization. Instead of building

formed by staff every day.

usually take for you to verify the work

teams, developing organizations, setting

Among them, we recognize 4 main

statuses of your team members? "Nego-

& reaching goals in line with the manage-

time eaters of line workers, resulting from:

tiations with staff" as to the allocation of

rial ambitions, we imperceptibly become

• Completing several tasks simultane-

unfinished tasks? Preparation of statis-

prisoners of simple, mundane activities.

ously, in a system environment that isn’t

tics, data extraction and consolidation

Imperceptibly, because this is how the time

from various systems?

eaters work.

These are only the examples of

the manager) about tasks to be perfor­ med on a given day and the status of

tine work. Work organization of teams

7 TIME EATERS OF EVERYDAY WORK FOR BUSINESS SERVICES & BACK OFFICE TEAMS

– especially in a remote or hybrid work

In case of a line workers, a key area of des­­­­

ding problems with the fulfilment of

model – became an ever greater chal-

tructive action of time eaters are activi­-

lenge consuming more of your precious

ties that support current, everyday per-

• The need to independently arrange

time and energy.

tasks that make up your everyday rou-

20

conducive to focus.

• Ineffective communication (with

the fulfilment of the other issues, in­clu­ the tasks.

formance of the tasks. Specifically, those

staff’s own work, when deciding what is

Very often, on-going action take

related to organizing, planning, commu-

to be done in case of conflicting priori­

over our schedules to such an extent that

nicating around organizing & monitoring

ties, management of urgent "drop-ins".

Focus on Business | January–February 2022

of the amount of time lost in the afore-

job and almost one full-time manager job

search for information about tasks, or­­­­­-

mentioned areas.

respectively.

ganize them, manage suspended tasks,

• In case of a line worker it’s 0.75 hrs/

This provides a first picture of

which completion wasn’t possible the first

day, i.e. 15.75 hrs/month (approx. 9%

the power of activities of the time eaters.

of the working month).

Importantly, additionally, we also observe

• The need for staff to independently

time, which must be found, organized before resuming task execution.

On the other side of the everyday task fulfilment processes are managers,

• In case of a manager it’s 1.25 hrs/day,

a significant time loss spent on sub-­

i.e. 26.25 hrs/month (approx. 16% of

optimal task execution resulting from

the working month).

the adopted work organization method.

exposed to the activities of the time eaters associated with organizing, monito­ring, reporting activities as below: • The audit of task performance throughout the day, "negotiations with staff" as to the allocation or assignment of tasks unfinished by others.

Instead of building teams, developing organizations, setting & reaching goals in line with the managerial ambitions, we imperceptibly become prisoners of simple, mundane activities.

• Preparing and manually distributing tasks so as to delegate work to individual

AN EXAMPLE. In an organiza­

employees and performing other tech-

tion consisting of 50 line workers wor­

7 TIME EATERS DUE TO SUB-OPTIMAL WORK ORGANISATION

nical related activities.

king in a 10 person team on average

In this field, in case of line workers, we dis-

• Preparing statistics by extracting, con-

(5 managers), the organization loses

tinguish 4 main time eaters resulting from:

solidating data from various transac-

787.5 hrs/month of line workers' work-

• Uneven distribution of work in the team

tion systems and other external files for

ing time and 131.25 hrs/month of mana­

on a given day, which causes stress in

reporting purposes and for meetings

gers' working time due to the activity

order to be on time (translating into

with the team.

of an aforementioned 7 time eaters.

lower quality of work, overtime), unpro­­­­­-

Based on our experience from over

Assuming that on average we work

ductive waiting for work, "slacking off"

500 Business Services & Back/Middle

168 hrs/month (depending on holidays

Office teams we’ve created a model on

and weekends with this monthly fi­gure

• Lack of matching tasks to staff: they per-

the basis of which we’ve developed a time

usually varying from 152 to 184 hrs)

form tasks that are below their compe­­tence

release calculator which makes it possi-

this translates into nearly 5 FTEs i.e.

or tasks that they don’t like to perform

ble, among other things, an estimation

Full Time Equivalents) line worker

(decreased commitment, motivation).

Focus on Business | January–February 2022

on days with fewer tasks.

21

BUSINESS

• Necessity of solving quality problems

1400 hrs/month of working time of line

While the 7 time eaters of the teams'

related to backlog, management of tasks

workers and 80 hrs/month of working

current work are low-hanging apples (to

which has been suspended, committing

time of managers. This translates into

be eliminated quickly & "easily" within

similar quality mistakes.

more than 8 FTEs line worker job and

a few weeks), the work time eaters resul-

• Lack of knowledge & application of best

almost 0.5 FTEs manager job (consider-

ting from a sub-optimal method of its

practices for the execution of a given

ing the aforementioned assumption of

organization can be eliminated in the me-

task by staff (they execute tasks in a dif-

168 working hrs/month).

dium term (a few months).

ferent way).

HOW TO ELIMINATE TIME EATERS?

WHAT TO DO WITH THE TIME FREED UP?

observe a significant time loss spent on

In total, as a result of all 14 time eaters,

Both in case of managers & line workers

sub-optimal task execution resulting from

the losses are as below:

it can be allocated to, f.e.: development,

the adopted work organization method.

• in case of line worker, it's 43.75 hrs/

actions targeted at increasing quali­­ty, gi­­

Here we identify such time eaters as:

month (about 26% of the working

ving greater value to the organization (cus-

• The need for data collection, consoli­

month).

tomer retention, after-sales), the implemen-

Also in the case of managers, we

dation, additional analysis to enable

• in case of a manager: 42.25 hrs/month

the management of productivity, time-

(about 26% of the working month).

tation of additional tasks related to incre­ asing the scale, optimization activities.

liness & quality of work (goal setting, monitoring, reporting, accounting).

While the 7 time eaters of the teams' current work are low-hanging apples (to be eliminated quickly & "easily" within a few weeks), the work time eaters resulting from a sub-optimal method of its organization can be eliminated in the medium term (a few months).

• The need to organize, monitor data on the status of the implementation of new staff, as well as administrative, analytical activities related to the management of employee competence development.

• The need to collect data, conduct additional analysis to enable work and holi­ day planning, resource management,

AN EXAMPLE. In this example

The freed time allows for the exe-

organization, all 14 time eaters result in

cution of more work by the same team

How does this translate into the amount of lost time according to the model we’ve developed?

loss of nearly 2200 hrs/month of working

– thanks to this we can save on the costs

time of line workers and more than 210

of recruiting new staff and use the saved

hrs/month of working time of managers,

funds, f.e., to pay rises for current staff.

• In case of a line worker it's 28 hrs/month

which translates into more than 13 FTEs

In this way we provide funds for the sala­ry

(approx. 17% of the working month).

line worker jobs and 1.25 FTEs manager

increase expected by staff without ex­­­

• In case of a manager, it's 16 hrs/month

jobs (assu­ming 168 hrs of working time/

penses. These are just a few selected ways

month).

to use the time or energy freed up.

organization of replacements.

(approx. 10% of the working month).

AN EXAMPLE. Continuing with

In total, the described 14 time eat-

How much the time eaters cost

the above example of an organization

ers cost such an organization nearly PLN

you? How much can you gain by elimi-

(50 line workers, 10 person team, 5 mana­

1.3 million per year (assuming an average

nating them? How to achieve it?

gers), due to these 7 more time eaters

remuneration: about PLN 7,000 for a line

the organization loses an additional

worker and PLN 12,000 for a manager).

Check it out using our calculator: www.harmodesk.com/kalkulator.

Authors

22

Krzysztof Pimpicki

Michał Stangret

CEO, Harmodesk & Positive Productivity

Evangelist, Harmodesk & Positive Productivity

Focus on Business | January–February 2022

HAYS POLAND SALARY GUIDE 2022

hays.pl hays.xx/salaryguide

Hays Poland Raport Płacowy 2022 | 1

BUSINESS

Flex Office – modern solutions on office space market The new, pandemic reality has presented different needs for entrepreneurs and their employees.

The office space market has faced huge challenges. Flex office – a modern form of lease – is gaining strength and becoming a trend in offices of the new normality and reality.

What distinguishes the Flex Office from other forms of lease? Why is it worth using flexible office space? What will the future of modern workplaces look like? Piotr Augustyn answers these and other questions in interview for FOCUS ON Business.

FOCUS ON Business: Where did the idea

The idea of 'cost sharing' was attractive

This is where the Flex Spaces are building

for creation of your brand come from?

to them. They participated in the cost

their competitive advantages. The flexi­

Piotr Augustyn, chillispaces.com:

of rent and initially created coworking

ble serviced offices, by their nature,

The history of the company Rise.pl goes

only for themselves. Later the service

are designed as rapidly reconfigurable

back to 2003. That time I was responsi-

was extended and became available to

spaces. If we assume that in the new nor-

ble for management of investments in

other entrepreneurs. Requirements and

mality and reality the office will act as

Poland. Mainly industrial and real estate

needs in relation to the office space have

a meeting point for teams, creative work,

investments. Subsequent custo­m ers,

evolved over the years.

and event spaces, rather than acres of

implementing their projects, needed a place where they could register their companies. We decided to give them such a service, which got its name from the USA and was called 'virtual office'.

Then we expanded our offer by renting

The Flex Office market has been developing dynamically for many years. Poland is following the trends from the USA and EU.

the office space. That is how 'Hot Desk',

24

now called coworking, was created. After

What is the new way of office space

desks, then the Flex Office is able to pro-

a few years, responding to our custom-

renting?

vide that space to its users. The fact that

ers' needs, we started providing the ser-

The Flex Office market has been

the space is managed by a flex operator

viced offices. The separated spaces were

developing dynamically for many years.

takes the burden of space arrangement

a formal requirement of our customers

Poland is following the trends from

and associated design costs off the cus-

– we had to take into account the needs

the USA and EU. The pandemic and its

tomer’s shoulders.

of their business partners. Each new cus-

consequences for the organization of

tomer is a good lesson in best practices

work has opened up a new dimension

What distinguishes the flex office from

for us. For our first big office, we threw

to flexible office space services. First of

other forms of lease?

ourselves in at the deep end because

all, companies, which often suddenly

It is worth understanding that a ser-

the requirements of our customers were

switched to remote working, had to deal

viced office should be perceived not as

huge. In business you have to be brave

both with the excess of rented space

a typical lease, but an office as a service.

and courageous. Because it pays off!

and with great uncertainty how teams

In this case not only the size of the office

Thanks to this we know that we are able

will react to returning to the office after

is important but all the elements which

to serve both large and small customers.

a long time. While the issues of excess

we call "service part of the service". It in-­­­­­­­­­­­­

space could be relatively smoothly solved

cludes the speed of service delivery to

Where can we look for the roots of

by subleasing or moving to a flexible

a customer, its quality, stability, security

coworking?

space, the second issue is much more

and flexibility, which is understood dif-

The service originated in the United

complex. In fact, we are still in the come-

ferently today. It is not only short rental

States, where freelancers decided to

back phase and are exploring what

periods, but first of all the approach

rent and share the office space together.

the offices of the future should look like.

to the relationship with a customer.

Focus on Business | January–February 2022

The fact that we are closer to a customer allows us to respond faster to changes such as pandemic disease. For example: Currently, teams can't determine how much of their work will be made in their offices or in a form of hybrid work. In the Flex they will find a solution for themselves.

Focus on Business | January–February 2022

25

BUSINESS

For us as an operator, the sale of the ser-

example: Currently, teams can't deter-

I mentioned earlier. No long commit­

vice does not end at the moment of con-

mine how much of their work will be

ments and the speed with which the office

clusion of the lease agreement. In fact,

made in their offices or in a form of

can be available. Secondly, the cost sta-

the actual selling starts right now,

hybrid work. In the Flex they will find

bility and scalability of the service. This

because we are not protected by long

a solution for themselves. Serviced offices

is often a key element for any develop-

lease periods and termination notices.

combined with club cards for employees

ing companies or new entrants. Pandemic

It is important to create a good rela-

in hybrid mode remove this uncertainty

has also shown that employees are more

tionship with our customers, not only

and reduce costs.

and more willing to work closer to home.

to make the lease last as long as possible, but precisely to know their needs. As a serviced office provider we are able to meet these needs much faster than a traditional landlord, if a landlord is able to do it at all. Such things as space changes, reconfigurations, flexible approach to val-

Recent years have shown that the idea of the "share economy" is visible inmore and more areas of our lives.

We share cars, holidays homes and many more.

How about sharing the office space as well?

uation of the service and adapting it to the customer’s development needs, e.g.

Another important factor is the sim-

Serviced office networks with locations

by using the "pay-as-you-grow" model,

plicity of the cooperation model. The cus-

beyond downtown can provide their cus-

are elements that a traditional lease will

tomer pays a simple fee for a workspace

tomers who have distributed teams with

not provide as efficiently and effectively

that includes all necessary elements.

the office space in a variety of locations.

Why use the flexible office space?

the idea of the "share economy" is visi-

as the Flex model.

The fact that we are closer to a cus­­­­­­­

26

Recent years have shown that

tomer allows us to respond faster to

There are several reasons for this.

ble in more and more areas of our lives.

changes such as pandemic disease. For

First and foremost is the flexibility

We share cars, holidays homes and many

Focus on Business | January–February 2022

has shown itself as a pandemic effect, i.e. the expectation on the part of traditional tenants for a flex operator to be in the building where they rent an office.

In this case, the flex offering complements an offer of the building owner and becomes the same essential element as food service, showers, confe­rence rooms and many more.

What will the future of modern workplaces look like?

That's a very good question. I would like to know the answer to it myself (smile). I think we all realize that the role of the office will change. Over the coming months and upon the permanent return of teams to their offices we will see how dramatic and spectacular this change will be. What we see today is very high occupancy in our offices, despite pandemic disease – some of our offices are 100% leased. The Flex space is no longer more. How about sharing the office space

What should a tenant consider when

just a temporary solution, but a target

as well? The serviced office is an area

choosing a flex office offer?

location for companies that have pre-

dedicated to a given customer, but auxi­

First of all, a tenant should take into

viously based on traditional leases.

liary facilities such as conference rooms,

consideration the completeness and ver-

The possibi­lities offered by the Flex for

reception areas, chillout spaces are

satility of the service, i.e. the price should

hybrid teams have a positive impact on

shared by all customers, which helps to

include all necessary charges. Secondly,

the perception of this service. The share

reduce costs.

the quality and stability of the infrastruc-

of the Flex space in the total market has

ture which must guarantee and provide

been growing, and please remember

Who is the Flex offer aimed at?

The market is changing dynamically and rapidly. The coworking and serviced offices, two different services, are no longer dedicated mainly to freelancers and small companies. Even before the pandemic, we estimated that large

The Flex is still an offer for small businesses and freelancers who will find here a professionally prepared office and, importantly, also a community and contacts.

corporations and medium-sized companies generated about 40% of the turnover

the failure-free continuation of any busi-

that the level of this share in Poland is

in our industry. The pandemic has only

ness processes. In my opinion, it is impor-

much lower than in Europe. The ques-

intensified this trend.

tant for the location to provide opportu-

tion “what kind of office it should be”

The Flex is still an offer for small

nities for development and reconfigura-

is not as important as the question

businesses and freelancers who will find

tion of a given space. The rest depends

“where this office should be”. In the U.S.,

here a professionally prepared office and,

largely on actions of an operator and its

there is a strong trend to open the flex

importantly, also a community and con-

flexibility. Flexibility, however, is in a way

space away from city centers so that

tacts. However, a corporate customer

a state of mind.

an employee does not have to com-

places emphasis on other elements,

mute to the office. This office "comes" to

such as the high-quality IT infrastruc-

Is the Polish office market prepared for

an employee by creating a network of

ture, redundancy, stability of the service

modern forms of lease?

satellite offices. Work-life balance cer-

as well as security and safe of the space,

These forms are already here.

tainly benefits from this. In our stra­tegy

not only physical, but also health and

The market certainly is ready for them

we have assumed the creation of flex

medical. Additionally, a customer is inter-

and is developing rapidly. Operators in

centers in smaller cities/towns which

ested in the image of its company and its

our country are also beginning to offer

also have their potential, and which are

office, i.e. the possibility of customizing

new types of services, developed for

not the first choice for investors entering

of any flexible spaces in accordance with

example in the U.S. by the Corporate Ser-

Warsaw or Cracow.

the customer’s requirements, so that its

viced Suite, which are dedicated to corpo-

employees feel part of the organization.

rations. There is also a phenomenon that

Focus on Business | January–February 2022

Thank you for the interview.

27

BUSINESS

Find the perfect office chair and increase workplace well-being.

Holistic approach to ergonomics in the office Recent data points towards some worrying health trends among office workers. One in eight surveyed spent more than eight and a half hours seated over the course of a normal working day while 40% of those surveyed spent between two and a half and five and a half hours sitting still.

It’s also been shown that those who sit still most tend to be those who also exercise less.

WE WERE MADE TO MOVE The health consequences of sedentary

with sitting still? For us, well-designed

SUPPORTING THE CORRECT BODY POSTURE

office habits are depressingly familiar.

means crea­t ing chairs that support

These chairs are designed to help keep

Headaches and concentration prob-

the spine’s natu­ral S-shape while sit-

the spine in its natural shape both when

lems. Muscle tension, particularly in

ting, helping maintain a correct posture.

sitting upright and leaning back. The seat

the shoulders and neck. Circulatory

How our office chairs move and can be

and back are movement synchronized

disorders. Cardiovascular complaints.

adjusted differs. To exemplify this, we ca-­ and movement is more controlled. As

These problems cause countless hours

tegorise desk chairs in two groups – those

va­riants of this, some chairs have extra

of sick leave and economic damage to

that support the correct body posture and

functionality such as active pelvic sup-

businesses every year. However, these

those that encourage movement.

port and automatic weight adjustment.

facts are no surprise to medical specialists, as the human body was quite simply not designed for long periods of sitting still.

Obviously, the default solution to this problem would be to encourage people to leave their seats as often as possible. This can be achieved in part by smart floor plans and locating coffee and rest areas or printer rooms a short walk from workstations. However, apart from the obvious productivity challenges, this is simply not logistically or practically feasible in many roles. So, what can be done?

SUPPORTING AND ENCOURAGING MOVEMENT At Kinnarps, we believe that a good office chair is ergonomic, comfortable, easy to use and sustainable. It should also be well-designed. But what does ‘well-designed’ mean in the context of addressing the health issues associated

28

Focus on Business | January–February 2022

ENCOURAGING MOVEMENT In these chairs, the seat and back move

muscles and the release of discs, help

independently of each other. They have

keep the spine in its natural shape and

a wide forward seat tilt and a large open

encourage an open natural body posi-

seat angle, making it easier for the user to

tion and improved blood circulation.

sit more actively and encouraging move-

3 THINGS TO CONSIDER WHEN CHOOSING A TASK CHAIR

functions support active sitting in dif-

IDENTIFYING YOUR PERFECT OFFICE CHAIR

ferent positions and encourage adjust-

Which chair is best for you is a very in-­­­­

Will it be shared by several users?

ments in foot positioning that activate

dividual matter. Before making this

How long will you sit? What kind of

blood circulation.

decision, you need to consider a few

ment. Among their many benefits, these

Within the two categories we have

points. For example, will the chair have

1. How will the chair be used?

work will you do?

2. Choose movement for well-being

defined – supporting the correct body

multiple users? With the increasing use

posture and encouraging movement –

of the hybrid working model and flex-

Look for a chair with functions that

there is room for adjustment on a highly

ible working hours and office spaces,

individual level. This means that your

this is an important issue. Take time

Your chair should be comfortable

perfect office chair is definitely out there.

to think about how the chair will be

and easy to customise to your needs.

What’s equally certain is that the health

used and which functions are impor-

Make sure that the controls are easi­

benefits of these different types of

tant for you. Once you’ve identified

l­­y accessible and intuitive.

chair are many. By keeping the body

these, reaching a decision and finding

in motion through encouraging subtle

the chair that will activate your body

physical movement – or if you prefer,

and increase your working efficiency

moving when sitting still – they activate

is easier.

encourage movement.

3. Try and feel what suits you best

Which chair is best for you is a very individual matter – and as you’ve read, this is something we build into the design and functionality of office chairs.

Focus on Business | January–February 2022

29

BUSINESS

SIT YOURSELF HEALTHIER When you’ve found an office chair you

It’s beyond doubt that the benefits of

think is right for you, it’s important to

an office chair with the right features for

be able to recognise and adopt the cor-

the user, correctly set up and used prop-

rect sitting position as this defines how

erly are more profound than improved

your chair should be adjusted. Your feet

posture and comfort. Sitting properly and

should be on the ground with the heels

comfortably reduces the incidence of sick

directly underneath the knees. To find

days and time off taken to visit physio­

the right height, your knee angle should

therapists or doctors. It also increases

be between 90 and 100 degrees and your

productivity and efficiency levels. All

back should be upright. It’s worth noting

these factors optimise economic effi-

that how you place your mouse, keyboard

ciency and confirm that however you

and monitor also affect your posture so

look at it, a high-quality office chairs

consider these when trying to ‘learn’ to

a smart long-term investment.

sit correctly. Furthermore, the right sit-

We hope this article helps you come

ting posture is directly linked to having

closer to finding the chair that best meets

your desk at the right height. With this in

your requirements. Ergonomic seating

mind, it’s well worth considering inves­

and choosing the right office chair for you

ting in a height adjustable desks if you

and your people is just a part of a holistic

don’t already have one.

approach to ergonomics.

HOW TO SIT ERGONOMICALLY CORRECT • Whether standing or sitting, adjust desk height so that your elbows are at a 90-100 degree angle.

Sitting properly and comfortably reduces the incidence of sick days and time off taken to visit physiotherapists or doctors.

It also increases productivity and efficiency levels.

5 REASONS TO INVEST IN ERGONOMICS OF THE WORK ENVIRONMENT 1. Lower your costs It’s hard to focus and difficult to per-­­­­­

and can become a breeding ground for dissatisfaction. Holistic ergono­mics

• The top of your monitor should be at

form when you’re working in an un­­­

the same height as your line of vision.

comfortable posture in an inharmo-

• Use the headrest to provide comforta-

nious environment. You lose time and

By involving people in the design of

make mistakes. Ergonomic changes

your working environment you’ll in­­­

will improve your productivity and

crease staff satisfaction and trans-

increase your accuracy.

form co-workers into ambassadors.

ble support of the head or neck.

• When sitting, adjust chair height so that your knees are at 90-100 degree angle.

• Keep your wrists straight and parallel to

2. Reduce sick leave

will boost employee morale.

4. Empower everyone

Ergonomics will also enhance your

the desktop rather than angled upwards.

Holistic ergonomics can significantly

• Ensure the lumbar support sits comfor­

decrease everything from day-to-day

ter working climate.

physical pain in the human body to

5. Improve cooperation

tably against your lower back.

organization’s image and create a bet-

long-term sick leave caused by things

You can expect positive effects on

AN INVESTMENT IN PRODUCTIVITY

like stress and anxiety. A healthy,

an individual and team level by

Current trends in office working envi-

happy and harmonious co-worker can

encouraging movement and work

ronments include activity-based work-

thrive at work.

in alternating positions – sitting and

ing and the increasing emergence of

3. Boost morale

standing. A greater dose of move-

the hybrid working model, where time

Pain, frustration, stress and other dis­­-

ment at work not only prevents pos-

is more evenly divided between home

comforts caused by a dysfunctional

ture defects of employees, but also

and the office. In practice, this new,

working environment are demoralizing

improves cooperation in the team.

more agile model places extra demands on human resources managers and others responsible for office planning and logistics. It also creates challenges when it comes to identifying and apply-

Author

ing the solutions that best promote workplace and staff well-being. The benefits of a good office chair can make a major contribution towards this.

30

Focus on Business | January–February 2022

Listen to see the bigger picture HOLISTIC ERGONOMICS BY KINN ARPS

Think of our products like instruments in an orchestra. They can perform extraordinary things individually, but they’re not meant to go solo. It’s impossible to do better business, reduce sick leave or injuries and foster a sound working environment if things are unbalanced and untuned. You need harmony. At Kinnarps, we call it holistic ergonomics. It’s the modern way of creating the complete experience of a space and one of the most important ingredients when designing the successful ofce of the future. Listen and enjoy. kinnarps.com/ergonomics

BUSINESS

What will the office of the future look like?

Photos | Szymon Polański

Offices around the world are undergoing a major transformation. The coronavirus pandemic and its effects have contributed to the evolution of business and natural social changes. This was a violent global phenomenon – it affected companies on all continents to an equal extent. After many months of moving activities to a virtual space and the widespread domination of the home-office model, more and more companies decide to return to offices. However, everything indicates that this will be a return to other, better interiors. It is worth summarizing these changes.

FLEXIBLE OFFICE

a necessity. But designers care not only

the ability for the company to func-

The ability to smoothly adapt the office

about the users' backbones, but also...

tion normally?

space to current needs is an advantage

heads. Relaxation zones providing

Fortunately, there is not missing

that began to be appreciated several

excellent conditions for relaxation have

items that can be used to separate work-

years ago. The need to quickly switch

become a standard. A short nap or a few

stations or to secure critical places (proper

between individual and team work was

minutes of rocking on an office swing

construction of a reception desk) – while

beco­ming more and more common. Pre-

helps you recover and can miracu­lously

maintaining the required functions.

vious office arrangements did not give

restore freshness.

such freedom, hence the growing popula­

An excellent example of a safe, yet effective and functional office is the inte-

rity of mobile furniture facilitating quick

SAFE OFFICE

rior design of the Warsaw headquarters

meetings as well as the emergence of ele-

The coronavirus pandemic posed a chal-

of the international consulting company

ments that allow you to quickly separate

lenge for office administrators – how

Cushman & Wakefield, which imple-

yourself from the environment during

to minimize the risk of virus transmission

mented its own 6 FEET OFFICE concept

individual work. A perfect example are

in closed rooms. How to protect emplo­

(ensuring adequate distance between

the furniture and accessories are sofas

yees and visitors, while maintaining

people in the office).

and pouffes for small meetings, movable screens which isolate the individuals from distracting images and sounds, and soundproofed telephone booths.

HEALTHY OFFICE No, it is not just about "ordinary" ergo-­­ nomics, which is the construction of chairs and armchairs that provide back support nor is the layout of the desk that allows the appropriate location of the computer keyboard and monitor. A modern office actively supports the broadly understood well-being of the user, which is a combination of optimal conditions for the body and soul.

Desks and tables with electric height adjustment are more and more popular – they allow you to change the working position, and even remind you of such

32

Interiors of the Cushman & Wakefield office in Warsaw.

Focus on Business | January–February 2022

(MULTI) FUNCTIONAL OFFICE Remote work at home, which office workers had to get used to, apart from undoubtedly disadvantages, also had advantages. One of them was complete freedom in adapting the workplace to one's own needs. Thousands of small home offices were created, each of which met individual expectations. We can say that these home offices are – almost 100% functional. We can expect that after returning to stationary offices, their users will still expect this convenience and will still require the workspace to be adapted to their needs.

Designers care not only about the users' backbones, but also... heads. Relaxation zones providing excellent conditions for relaxation have become a standard.

In this case, the answer lies in the elements used which allow each office employee to easily shape their own "micro-space". And it consists not only of desks, tables, chairs and screens, but also shelves, flower stands and hangers. As the designers who create designs for Balma emphasize – it is important to ensure the right quantity, quality and design consistency of these accessories – after all, we are talking about an office, i.e. a representative space...

ARE WE EXPERIENCING AN OFFICE REVOLUTION? Probably not. Focusing on the well-being of the office user and caring for their needs was already popularised in pre-

Interiors of the Cushman & Wakefield office in Warsaw.

Author

-pandemic times. However, the widespread and forced "exit from offices" corrected our perspective. It seems that now – going back to the offices – we know better what to expect.

Focus on Business | January–February 2022

33

MAIN INTERVIEW

WE HAVE AN IMPACT FOR

A BETTER TOMORROW Interview with Magdalena Olborska, CSR Manager in Samsung Electronics Poland.

34

Focus on Business | January–February 2022

Focus on Business | January–February 2022

35

MAIN INTERVIEW

Wiktor Doktór, Pro Progressio: In Sep-

kONtakt" program was recognized for

tember on Focus on Business portal

its activities supporting the UN Sustain-

we informed about the international

able Development Goals and counteract-

educational program Solve for Tomor-

ing the economic and social impact of

row (SFT), in which young people can

the COVID-19 pandemic in the 10th edi-

develop their competencies and pro-

tion of CSR Letters of the Polityka weekly.

pose solutions, centered around three major contemporary challenges: cli-

Samsung's CSR mission statement is:

mate, health and security. How does

"Together for Tomorrow! Enabling

this work?

People!" What is it aimed at?

Magdalena Olborska, Samsung

Samsung's CSR vision includes

Electronics: Solve for Tomorrow is a glo­­

a num­­­­b er of educational programs

bal program by Samsung, which was

around the world. These are designed to

established in 2010 and is popular among

enable young people to reach their full

young people in many countries around

potential in the technology-driven job

the world. In Poland, it will provide

market. The company's core value is to

a unique space for learning, exchanging

operate under the slogan "Together for

ideas, and designing and implement-

Tomorrow. Enabling people!" ("Together

ing solutions to local problems. Thanks

for Tomorrow. Activate your potential").

to SFT, young people can face the chal-

We want to contribute to building a bet-

lenges of XXI century, which are more

ter world for everyone, which is why we

and more acutely felt due to the climate

have been conducting activities to sup-

crisis, or improper use of new technolo­

port the development of digital skills and

gies and Internet. The aim of the program

facilitate access to knowledge.

Samsung's CSR vision includes a number of educational programs around the world. These are designed to enable young people to reach their full potential in the technology-driven job market.

is to strengthen future competences in young people, encouraging them to be

What is your role in CSR Team at Sam-

active, creatively courageous and to carry

sung and what qualities do you have

out innovative projects.

in common with the rest of the team?

What other global programs has Sam-

three people involved in innovative

sung run last year? Which ones are you

projects and their communication. I am

particularly proud of?

the leader of the team and I am also

The Samsung CSR team consists of

The kONtakt Program was a very im­­­­-

proud to be the one who initiated the sup-

portant activity, especially during the pan-

port for start-ups creating solutions com­­­­-

demic when the use of new technologies

pliant with the UN Sustainable Develop­

among children and young people in-

ment Goals, which gave birth to the global

creased significantly. It promotes activi-

CSR program: Samsung for Impact. I am

ties related to digital well-being, develo­

also the originator of the CyfrOFFy kON-

ping digital competen­cies and taking

takt program. Everyone in the team is

care of safe and prudent use of new

united by one goal – to create initiatives

technologies. Maintaining a balance between the online and offline worlds is one of the most important challen­ ges faced by parents of school and preschool children today. Samsung, as a one of the leading manufacturers of electronic devices, cannot pretend that certain problems or phenomena do not exist. Therefore, the company takes responsibility for conducting activities that support healthy digital habits.

A series of webinars organized for teachers has yielded impressive results.

From April 2020 to December 2021, a total of 29 webinars were held, which lasted a total of 2,610 minutes and gathered a total of approximately 80,546 participants online. Samsung's "CyfrOFFy

36

Focus on Business | January–February 2022

that have a real impact on a better tomor-

of development – from concept to proto-

row, contribute to the spread of know­

type. They could also count on the help

ledge and enable people to acquire this

of experienced engineers from Samsung

knowledge.

R&D Institute Poland, who shared their knowledge on creating global products.

Samsung actively supports social im-

Apart from substantive support, Sam-

pactful startups environment. Please tell

sung also provided promotion and assis-

us how Samsung incubator works and

tance in searching for investors. What

what support can startups count on?

really distinguishes Samsung Incuba-

Samsung Incubator is a program

tors is the fact that the best ideas could

that operated in three cities in Eastern

count on grants from the company while

Poland – Rzeszów, Lublin and Białystok.

retaining full rights to their concepts.

Last year, the last edition of the pro-

The company takes responsibility for conducting activities that support healthy digital habits.

A series of webinars organized for teachers has yielded impressive results.

gram took place, which also set a trend

Samsung's mission includes making

for startups dealing with the UN Sustain-

a positive impact on the world by pro-

able Deve­lopment Goals. We launched

viding innovative products and ser-

two parallel recruitments – the Samsung

vices. What business support does

Incubator #dlaPlaneta program was

Samsung offer to other companies

open to innovators who implement pro-

and institutions?

jects responding to the challenges defined

Samsung is a powerful know-how

in the SDG goals. And for the Samsung

which we are willing to share. For exam-

Incubator Climate Leadership program,

ple during pandemic we helped to opti-

we were looking for startups that have

mize one of the production lines of medi­

an interesting idea for a project related

cal masks in PTAK company. Thanks to

to climate protection.

introduced changes, the line increased

Startups operating in each of the in-

its production capacity three times and

cubators could count not only on free

could produce almost 69 thousand masks

space, equipped with the latest Samsung's

a day. The help was free of charge and

devices, available 24/7. Incubators are

was provided as part of industry solida­

also distinguished by the fact that young

rity during the pandemic.

innovators have received technological and substantive support at every stage

Focus on Business | January–February 2022

Thank you for the interview.

37

INVESTMENT NEWS SKANSKA SELLS OFFICE PORTFOLIO IN KRAKOW AND WROCLAW FOR EUR 128 M Skanska has sold two office projects in Poland to Stena Real Estate BV, an international property company that is part of the privately owned Swedish Stena Group. The first phase of the Centrum Południe complex in Wroclaw, consisting of two joint office buildings, and the last building of the High5ive complex in Krakow, comprises 39,400 sqm of innovative and sustainable office space.

The projects are designed and built in line with ESG principles, which demonstrates Skanska’s commitment towards today’s business, environmental and social needs. It is the second transaction between the two parties in CEE since

Centrum Południe offers tenants

project in the 2020 CIJ Awards Poland

the second building from the Spark office

many solutions to make their offices

and received the 2021 PLGBC Green

complex in Warsaw was acquired in 2020.

a friendlier place to work. Filters, adia-

Building Award.

The first stage of Centrum Połud-

batic humidifiers and ventilation systems

The final, third phase of the Skans-

nie offers 28,215 sqm of sustainable and

provide up to 30% more fresh air than

ka’s High5ive office complex, which has

modern office and retail space, which is

the norms for office spaces. The buildings

a leasable area of 11,250 sqm and is 99%

69,5% leased. It is a part of a multi-stage

contain technologies that allow, among

leased, will be the first Skanska office

complex that will ultimately offer 85,000

other things, the reuse of gray water and

building in Krakow to hold a WELL cer-

sqm of modern office and retail space.

rainwater. LED lighting is used in public

tificate. This certificate is awarded to

Construction of the first phase ended in

areas, thanks to which the complex con-

healthy and comfortable workplaces. Its

July 2020. In July 2021, Skanska started

sumes up to one-third less energy than

construction is scheduled to be concluded

work on the second phase of its larg-

the reference buildings. The complex is

in the first quarter of 2022.

est project in Wroclaw. Centrum Połud-

also 100% powered by electricity gene­

High5ive is a well-known complex

nie will be the first Skanska WELL cer-

rated by wind farms. Recycled materials

of five office buildings in Krakow, which

tified office building in Wroclaw, includ-

and those with low VOC emissions were

will ultimately deliver over 70,000 sqm

ing WELL Health-Safety Rating. The cer-

used when the complex was constructed.

of modern space to the market. The last

tificate is awarded to office spaces with

The green areas around Centrum Połud-

building, which reached its target height

the highest safety parameters, limiting

nie are also cultivated without the use

in May 2021, will provide over 11,000 sqm

the risk of disease transmission and also

of harmful pesticides and herbicides.

for tenants. The entire office space has

allowing the creation of a healthy and

The first phase of Centrum Południe

already been leased to Spyrosoft, Business

friendly work environment.

was recognized as the best sustainable

Link and zooplus, among others.

High5ive was created in accordance with the highest standards and the most demanding environmental certificates, while making human health and needs the central focus. The third phase of the complex will be the first Skanska project in Krakow to apply for the presti­ gious WELL Core & Shell certificate, which verifies office space quality. All the solutions used, based on the requirements of this certification, will help users in their daily duties, as well as ensure their safety and physical and mental comfort. The buil­ding also provides over 40 parking spaces for electric cars.

38

Focus on Business | January–February 2022

Make each customer interaction a truly personalized experience Luxury Cosmetics

Luxury Cosmetics

Active now

Monday, 21 December Wednesday Virtual assistant

Messages to this chat and calls are now secured with end-to-end encryption. Tap for more info.

Hi, I am your virtual assistant. How can I help you?

6:03 PM

I would like to get some extra advice to choose the right product for me.

6:03 PM Virtual assistant

We have new additions to our skin care collection. As our loyal customer you get to try it first with a special gift.

9:03 AM

I will connect you with our skincare consultant.

Is video ok?

6:03 PM

Great 6:03 PM

Go to Online Shop

Send a message...

Omnichannel Customer Engagement Hub

Intelligent Chatbot Building Platform

Cloud Contact Center Solution

Accelerate Your Digital Transformation Deliver Seamless Omnichannel Experiences across Touchpoints For more information, visit www.infobip.com

BUSINESS

RETAIL INVESTING ACROSS EUROPE IS SET TO GET COMPETITIVE IN 2022

Following years of turmoil in retail, 2022

yields may start stabilising during 2022,

ahead, property owners will be forced to

will bring rental growth and increased

after a 3bps increase to 5.3%.

renovate stock to achieve greener stand-

investment capital to the sector across Europe, according to Savills.

40

These retail trends are unfolding as investment into European commercial

ards or repurpose buildings to embrace social values.

The international real estate advi-

and residential property is on the rise,

Savills also said greater portfo-

sor said that the retail sector is better pre-

reaching €78.9bn in Q3 – the highest level

lio diversification would be a theme for

pared for changes in consumer habits,

recorded in a third-quarter over the past

years to come, in terms of assets, loca-

while strong retail repricing – which has

five years. Meanwhile €201.6bn of invest-

tions and strategies. The logistics and

moved +80bps on average in Europe in

ment was transacted during the first

living sectors will also remain highly

the past four years – means retail assets

three quarters of 2021 – a 13.5% jump on

sought-after in 2022 and supply and

are one of the most competitive real

last year and a 7.7% increase on the past

demand imbalances in both sectors will

estate sectors.

5-year average.

create rental growth.

Savills’ European Investment Out-

Savills estimates that the end-year

But interest in the alternative sec-

look 2022 identifies best-performing

volume will be around €288bn, a 9% in­­

tor will further increase as investors seek

supermarkets and retail warehouses as

crease year-on-year, and a similar total

higher returns in a very low yield envi-

the most sought-after investment deals,

volume of around €290bn in 2022.

ronment, said the firm. – Hospitals, uni-

followed by convenience stores, commu­

The UK, Germany and France will

versities, data centres, life sciences and

ting hubs and high street units in strong

remain the preferred investment desti-

urban farming are slowly growing on

footfall areas.

nations, but as increasing amounts of

investors' radars. We expect these sec-

The report forecasts that prime

cross-border capital is invested in the Nor-

tors to gradually emerge as an asset class

retail warehouse yields will compress

dics, the region’s share in the total Euro-

in the next five years – said Lydia Brissy,

further by 5–10bps on average during

pean volume could continue to expand.

director, Europe research, Savills.

the next 12 months, following a 4bps

Despite growing deal volumes,

Similarly, prime yields may harden

compression in the average prime retail

investors will remain focussed on qua­

by up to 15bps on average in European

warehouse yield in the last two quarters

lity in 2022, particularly in the office sec-

logistics, while the living sectors may see

(to 5.2%). It added that shopping centre

tor, and with greater ESG imperatives

a 5–10 bps yield compression.

Focus on Business | January–February 2022

INVESTMENTS

Lviv Tech – an Innovative Platform for IT Companies to Meet New Clients

On October 9, within the IT Arena 2021 tech conference, Lviv IT Cluster introduced Lviv Tech, a platform for Lviv IT businesses to connect with customers and clients worldwide, which was created with the support of the USAID Competitive Economy Program in Ukraine. The event was attended by Lviv Mayor Andriy Sadovyi and Ivan Babichuk, Supervisory Board Chairman of Lviv IT Cluster.

Lviv Tech is an important initiative for

a suitable company by utilizing Lviv Tech

The platform was developed with

Ukraine to promote the Lviv IT sector

platform’s search engine and filters and

the support of the USAID Competitive

(and, subsequently, the Ukrainian one)

then contact the company directly to

Economy Program in Ukraine. At the 2019

on the worldwide market. This initia-

begin working together.

Strategy Session, the member compa-

tive is exceptionally crucial for small

– At the moment, Ukraine does

nies of Lviv IT Cluster launched the ini-

and medium-sized businesses that do

not have its analog services to Lviv Tech.

tiative. Work on the project’s execution

not have enough possibili­ties to adver-

The new platform’s benefit for small and

proceeded throughout 2020-2021.

tise themselves. Lviv Tech is a B2B plat-

midsize enterprises is helping them to find

During the event, the speakers dis-

form that combines the features of

consumers without further expenditure in

cussed the current state of the IT indus-

an online cata­log and a marketplace.

marketing and sales – stated Ivan Babi­

try in Lviv and ran back the history of

Lviv IT Cluster members can develop

chuk, Supervisory Board Chairman of

Lviv IT Cluster, which celebrated its

a thorough company profile to find con-

Lviv IT Cluster.

10th anniversary on October 9 within

sumers. Potential clients may select

42

the IT Arena conference. During these

Focus on Business | January–February 2022

ten years, Lviv IT Cluster has launched

are the components that make Lviv IT

of technology businesses for the com-

several dozen projects in the spheres of

Cluster a successful and dynamic organi­

mon goal of increasing the region’s

education, infrastructure, promotion

zation that initiated the development of

competitiveness.

and analytics. The synergy of IT compa-

IT clusters in Ukraine. Lviv Tech is one

Make your business thrive with a trusted

nies, education and local governments

more example of combining the efforts

partner from Lviv: lvivtech.com.

Author

Julia Kozlenko Marketing Director, Lviv IT Cluster

Focus on Business | January–February 2022

43

INVESTMENTS

2021 in Lithuania’s Global Business Services – a year of success Text | Ruta Krisciunaite

With the third (and, hopefully, final) year of the COVID-19 pandemic making a start, the Lithuanian Global Business Services (GBS) sector has not only kept its head above water but also achieved significant success.

The pandemic has demonstrated that

KPMG organisation member firm, KPMG

will see 300 specialists providing fund

a resilient location strategy is a key to

in Lithuania and Latvia, has recently

administration, payments, cash, and asset

business continuity in uncertain times,

become part of KPMG Sweden. Lithua-

management, as well as technology ser-

and multiple companies have recog-

nia’s skilled IT talent pool made it the per-

vices to the company’s growing client

nised Lithuania as a reliable, flexible,

fect site for KPMG’s regional IT center

base in Europe and the US.

and high-performing partner.

after the merger. The new hub will pro-

Vilnius also joined the worldwide

2021 brought seven new investors

vide IT, cyber security and data analy­-

network of Guidehouse, a US-based

into Lithuania’s GBS community, with

tics services for KPMG operations in Swe-

ma­­na­gement consultancy. The compa-

more than 1,300 new jobs to be added

den, Latvia, Lithuania and other Nor-

ny’s new Lithuanian office is already

over the next few years. Another 1,500

dic countries.

servicing Guidehouse high-profile clients

are in the plans as six companies already established in Lithuania expand their high value-added functions, such as Embedded Engineering, Cyber Security, and Robotic Process Automation, among others. Highly educated, diverse, multilingual talent continues to be Lithuania’s main attraction point for new investors.

44

2021 brought seven new investors into Lithuania’s GBS community, with more than 1,300 new jobs to be added over the next few years. Another 1,500 are in the plans as six companies already established in Lithuania expand their high value-added functions.

FROM CONSULTING’S BIGGEST NAMES TO LEADING SOFTWARE DEVELOPERS

Lithuania’s ICT services landscape

in the areas of Anti-money Laundering

also welcomed Itransition, an American

and risk management. Lithuania’s strong

2021 once again confirmed the maturity

software services provider that establi-

AML/CFT ecosystem and highly-quali-

of Lithuania’s GBS sector as several global

shed software development and delivery

fied local talent were the main drivers

names selected the country to host their

center in Vilnius. The center's 30-strong

behind the company’s decision to invest

ICT hubs. Accenture, one of the world’s

team will carry out full-cycle software

in the country. Guidehouse recently cele-

largest consultancies, has joined Lithu-

development, DevOps, QA, and sales/

brated the hiring of their 300th employee,

ania’s fast-growing GBS family. In Octo-

account management functions. In Lithu-

which is an astounding achievement

ber, the company opened its Advanced

ania, Itransition is also looking to develop

given that their operation kick-started

Technology Center in Vilnius, which

university partnerships and organise

in March 2020.

focuses on developing and delivering

reskilling and upskil­ling courses for those

a wide range of cross-industry techno­

who want to enter the IT industry.

EXPANSIONS ABOUND

logy solutions across leading technology

The financial services sector of

In Lithuania, 2021 has also been a fruit-

platforms. Currently actively recruiting,

Lithuania’s GBS ecosystem also saw sig-

ful year for existing GBS players. Inter-

Accenture expects to grow its headcount

nificant new investments. For instance,

national telecom leader Telia announced

in Lithuania to over 300 specialists over

Alter Domus, one of the largest private

plans to hire another 400 specialists

the next few years.

asset servicers for the alternative invest-

for its GBS center in Vilnius, bringing

Another consulting giant KPMG

ment market, has chosen Lithu­a nia

the total headcount to more than 1,300

announced plans to establish an IT engi-

for an EMEA operations hub this year.

people. This expansion represents a sig-

neering hub in Vilnius in April. A global

The company’s regional center in Vilnius

nificant acceleration of the company’s

Focus on Business | January–February 2022

globally and remains among the coun-

Accenture Baltics celebrated its arrival to Lithuania by hosting an interactive 60-metre installation along the city’s River Neris. Photo: Accenture, 2021.

tries whose policies and institutions support economic freedom the most.

Lithuania has also raced into the Top10 countries in the world for gen­­­ der equality at work, according to the new Global Gender Gap Report 2021 by the World Economic Forum. The report ranked Lithu­ania 8th among 156 countries worldwide, which demonstrates the country’s commitment to empo­ wering economic equality and diversity. Again, Lithuania’s GBS & ICT industry is leading the way here, with women holding 48% of senior management positions and leading 42% of GBS centers in the country.

Another positive trend is the in­­ creasing focus on sustainability and social responsibility in the GBS community.

drive towards new technologies, with

Teleperformance, a Paris-headquartered

According to Invest Lithuania’s industry

new hires developing 5G, digital pro­

global leader in customer experience

survey, the share of GBS centers carrying

ducts, cutting-edge IT infrastructure and

management, is looking to add 500 mul-

out corporate social responsibility (CSR)

process automation solutions.

tilingual employees to its Lithu­anian

activities has almost doubled between

operations hub by 2022. Meanwhile, Nor-

2018 and 2020 — from 38% to 68%. 2021

way’s NORIAN, which provides language-

brought some impactful initiatives too.

-dependent accounting, payroll, and intel-

For instance, in October, EPAM Systems

ligent automation services to Scandina-

kicked off their first Engineering Hacka-

vian and Baltic clients from its Vilnius­�

thon in Lithuania, gathering the brightest

-based Competence Center, is expanding

local minds to help NGOs, charity organi-

its Swedish – and Norwegian-speaking

sations, schools, and hospitals deliver digi­-

team of financial experts.

tal products and solutions that improve

According to a new study of OECD countries, Lithuania’s GDP per capita bounced back to pre-pandemic levels

by Q1 2021.

their processes and services. Mean-

INTERNATIONAL RECOGNITION

while, Norwegian Visma has launched

The Lithuanian GBS sector’s engi­­­­-

The continuous growth of the Lithuanian

a free programming teaching platform,

neering and technology development

GBS sector in 2021 is hardly surprising,

Angis.net, to encourage students across

competencies are also getting a boost

given the country’s fast economic reco­

Lithuania’s regions to learn programming

with Dematic, a supplier of smart logis-

very from the pandemic. According to

in an easy yet effective way, regardless of

tics solutions, opening a new R&D

a new study of OECD countries, Lithu-

their social environment, financial capa-

department. The company has anno­­

ania’s GDP per capita bounced back to

bilities, or place of residence.

unced plans to recruit 100 specialists in

pre-pandemic levels by Q1 2021, placing

All in all, Lithuania’s GBS sector con-

Controls, Mechanical Engineering, Soft-

the country ahead of all other EU mem-

tinued to thrive over 2021, with new en­­

ware Development, and Solutions Deve­

ber states and signalling good prospects

trants discovering the country’s bene-

lopment functions in the near future.

for sustained economic growth. Another

fits and existing players expanding their

Eisfeld Ingenieure, a German company

indication of Lithuania’s resilience to

opera­tions. Both are strong indicators of

offering state-of-art structural engineer-

economic shocks is a Top10 spot in

just how healthy and welcoming Lithu­

ing solutions, is also looking to grow its

the Fraser Institute’s Economic Freedom

ania’s business environment is, so we

team by at least 20 engineering profes-

of the World index 2021. Since 2020, Lithu­-

are looking towards more achievements

sionals. Having established a GBS center

ania has climbed from 11th to 8th place

in 2022.

in Vilnius in 2020, a leading US MedTech company, Dexcom is planning to double its headcount in Lithuania to 400 specia­ lists by 2023, with new hires joining technical and sales support, automation solutions, and finance teams.

Lithuania’s cross-skilled multilin-

Author Ruta Krisciunaite | Senior Investment Advisor, GBS & ICT, Invest Lithuania

gual talent is also in high demand with international GBS centers. For example,

Focus on Business | January–February 2022

45

INVESTMENTS

What attracts investors to Bydgoszcz?

Bydgoszcz is the strongest business centre in the Kuyavian-Pomeranian Voivodeship and is still dynamically developing, offering a good climate for entrepreneurship and further investments.

Diversified economy provides stable pillars for economic growth, and industry reports confirm the high position of the City among the most attractive locations for doing business in Poland.

Why do investors choose Bydgoszcz and what support can they rely on from the City? Here are some reasons to invest here.

STRONG PRODUCTION ON THE THRESHOLD OF A NEW INDUSTRIAL REVOLUTION Bydgoszcz is a city with well-established

Bydgoszcz enterprises successfully ope­

Bydgoszcz com-

industrial traditions. Strong and continu-

rate on European and global markets,

panies that want

ously developing production sector goes

joining the group of leaders in their sec-

to further strengthen

hand in hand with the spread of latest

tors. The investment value of the City is

their competitiveness

technologies and employs almost half of

appreciated not only by Polish, but also

on the market, invest not only

all people working in the City. The indus-

by many foreign investors. Addition-

in the development of infrastructure, but

trial past of Bydgoszcz is an impor-

ally, the development and internatio­

also in human resources, where various

tant context for creating a modern eco-

nalization of the sector is actively sup-

competences are needed. The favoura-

nomic climate. The local economy is

ported by the activities of the Bydgoszcz

ble business climate, human capital and

based on electromechanical, transport,

Industrial Cluster, which has the status of

enormous economic potential contribute

tool and plastics processing, polymer

the National Key Cluster.

to the development of Bydgoszcz enter-

materials, armaments, electronic, tele-

Industry 4.0, innovative solutions,

communications, and food industries.

new technologies – this is what drives

prises that are boldly entering the era of the new industrial revolution.

CONVENIENT LOCATION FOR THE WAREHOUSE AND LOGISTICS INDUSTRY Strong manufacturing sector, dynamically growing e-commerce industry, as well as convenient location of the City, along with an extended network of expressways, are conducive to the development of the warehouse and logistics market in the City, which today plays an important role in the region's economy. The central location of Bydgoszcz on the map of Poland, access to an international airport, as well as good connection to sea ports in Gdańsk and Gdynia, and large economic centres such as Berlin and Wrocław are important factors considered by warehousing and logistics investors when selecting the location for their businesses. The increase in the attractiveness of Bydgoszcz as a logistic centre is also influenced by the construction of S5 and the planning of S10 expressways that will connect the coast with Silesia and Warsaw with Szczecin.

In recent years, the resources of modern production and warehouse spaces have dynamically increased and currently occupy approx. 470,000 m2, and over 340,000 m2 of high standard warehouse parks remain under construction and at the planning stage. Dedicated investment offer enabled Bydgoszcz to be noticed by international developers and presents great potential in the context of launching new investments in modern production and warehouse spaces or in the scope of renting existing facilities.

46

Focus on Business | January–February 2022

MODERN SERVICES, OFFICES AND TECHNOLOGIES Bydgoszcz is among

example, by the strong manufacturing

others, the dynamic growth of the e-com-

the important loca-

sector. Such sustainable development,

merce market, development of 5G tech-

tions in Poland also

based on the synergy of competences, is

nology, cloud tools, industry 4.0, smart

for investments in

often the reason why international enti-

city solutions, automation, or the possi-

the modern business

ties decide to conduct key business opera­

bility of cooperation with various sectors

tions in Bydgoszcz.

and industries.

services sector. About 60 BPO, SSC, IT and R&D service

Due to the high concentration of

The dynamic growth of the BPO/

centres operate in the "city open to out-

IT companies, Bydgoszcz ranks among

SSC sector was also seen by the Bydgo-

sourcing", and the number of jobs in this

the top locations chosen by global

szcz market of modern office spaces

sector currently exceeds 11,500 of which

technology companies in the nation-

with the current resources exceeding

over 80% is generated by IT services, cre-

wide list of IT centres. The proof of this

136,000 m2. New office buildings attract

ating a strong local specialisation. Finan-

are the service centres of such corpo-

with a high standard, location in the City

cial and accounting centres and contact

rations as the already present: Atos,

centre, easy access to public transport,

centres are also developing more and

Nokia, Asseco, Sii, or GlobalLogic. More

as well as numerous technological facili-

more dynamically. The main represen­

and more entities from the IT industry

ties or the possibility of arranging space

tatives of the sector in the City are develo­

are receiving international awards for

according to individual expectations.

ping specialised business processes and

the highest level of products and ser-

In addition, there are also flex office

realise projects for the largest global IT,

vices provided, and Bydgoszcz specia­

spaces available in Bydgoszcz, which

telecommunications, insurance, or auto-

lists have a significant contribution to

significantly enrich the office offer and

motive companies, confirming the high-

the implementation of important and

provide an excellent alternative when

est level of services and competences of

prestigious projects, such as IT support

choosing a place of business for both

their Bydgoszcz staff. The services and

for the Olympic Games. The prospect of

new investors considering this location,

products provided by IT companies

further development of the IT industry in

as well as entrepreneurs, or start-ups

present in the City are eagerly used, for

Bydgoszcz is currently related to, among

already pre­sent in the City.

HUMAN RESOURCES TAILORED TO INVESTORS' EXPECTATIONS An important aspect for investors is

The City therefore has a well­-developed

access to appropriate human resources

technological and scientific base, which

and competences. Also in this respect,

is an important argument for further

the Bydgoszcz market is attractive to them.

companies considering locating their

The presence of over a million population

branches in the City on the Brda River.

within a radius of 50 km from By­dg ­ oszcz puts the City in a privileged position in terms of the availability of the staff.

Bydgoszcz also has an attractive edu­­­­cational offer and an academic base.

More than a half of the total number of students in the Kuyavian-Pomeranian Voivodeship study at universities located in Bydgoszcz. What is also important for investors is the education profile, which is adapted here to a large extent to the needs of the local economy. An additional advantage is the technical profile of education in Bydgoszcz secon­dary schools.

The City also actively supports the cooperation of educational institutions with the business community.

Bydgoszcz pupils and students benefit from attractive programmes of patro­nage classes and courses created in cooperation with companies investing in the City.

Focus on Business | January–February 2022

47

INVESTMENTS

ATTRACTIVE OFFER AND INVESTOR SUPPORT The efficient and effective implementa-

business workshops, coope­

tion of investment processes in the City

ration exchanges and foreign

is comprehensively supported by the Byd­

economic missions.

goszcz Regional Development Agency

Entrepreneurs looking

(BARR). The agency provides professional

for a convenient location will see

investment services in a one-stop-shop

a diverse offer of investment areas in

formula, as well as offers assistance in

Bydgoszcz. A convenient source of infor-

the framework of post-investment care.

mation for entrepreneurs in this area is

BARR supports investors in finding suita-

the database of investment offers main-

ble land or office area, obtaining relevant

tained by the Bydgoszcz Regional Devel-

data about the potential of the local mar-

opment Agency. It includes all available

ket or necessary administrative decisions

areas and facilities of various sizes and

and permits, conducting recruitment pro-

destinations. Extensive areas of about 150

cesses, or applying for investment incen-

hectares located entirely within the City

tives available in the City. The agency also

only a short distance from the interna-

helps in applying for available funds

tional airport and providing convenient

for the business development, and also

access to national roads and rail trans-

organises numerous training courses and

port are available for sale to investors.

DEVELOPMENT IN THE SPIRIT OF WORK-LIFE BALANCE People remain the most important fac-

Bydgoszcz Canal which is regaining its

tor for the development of both business

former glory. The banks of the Brda

and the City as a whole – hence the assess-

River, flowing through the City cen-

ment of the quality of life plays an increa­

tre, are also a source of positive energy.

singly important role in the process of fur-

In addition to the bustling main streets

ther investment development. As a "bou-

and squares, it is worth taking a look

tique" location, that is, a large city with-

at quiet alleys, offering unusual, yet

out many inconveniences characterising

atmospheric and inspiring places.

large metropolises, Bydgoszcz can attract

It is here that one can find alternative

more talented professionals who will

cafes, small pubs with a local brewery,

have the opportunity to develop here

Art Nouveau architecture flowing in

while maintaining good work-life balan­­­

the soothing sounds of melodies from

­ce. Bydgoszcz is a city of harmony and

the windows of the Bydgoszcz music

balance, caring for nature and constantly

district, extraordinary museums and

investing to be a more and more friendly

monuments of hydrotechnics related

place for residents and business people.

to the industrial history of the City, and

It attracts with a good cultural, residen-

even the Bydgoszcz fair full of regional

tial and educational offer, interesting

and natural products. Such places, and,

places for active recreation and pursuing

most of all, the people one can meet here

passions.

create the unique atmosphere of Byd­

Bydgoszcz offers numerous green

goszcz. It is worth trying it for a moment

areas – well-kept city parks, forest com-

and falling in love with this City in order

plexes, charming spaces of the Mill Island

to come back to it, or even become

located in the heart of the City or the Old

attached for a longer time.

More information Bydgoszcz Regional Development Agency 4C Unii Lubelskiej Street, 85-059 Bydgoszcz Phone: +48 52 585 88 23, e-mail: barr@barr.pl www.barr.pl

48

Focus on Business | January–February 2022

INVESTMENTS

Kielce supports the IT sector.

Investment in human resources The IT sector shares a special place on the economic map of the capital of the Świętokrzyskie Voivodeship. Kielce offers very good conditions for running a business in this sector.

Investors in Kielce can count on, among

Warsaw and Kraków, on the S7 express-

Highly qualified staff and competitive

others, for support in finding a location,

way, along with modern road infrastruc-

employment costs, modern office space

in the recruitment and promotion pro-

ture and availability of human resources.

and the proximity of large urban centers

cess, and for those planning to build new

The city of Kielce is an example of

make it worth locating investments in

office space – tax reliefs and exemptions.

how you can take care of the quality of

the business environment sector in Kielce.

Kielce is also attractive due to its location

life and at the same time create conditions

Kielce is also a large labor market.

– between two strong centers, which are

for the development of entrepreneurship.

Nine universities (including two public)

Project IT participants. Photo: Łukasz Zarzycki.

50

Focus on Business | January–February 2022

educate 20,000 students, nearly 7,000

where they learned or already developed

graduate every year, of which 2 thou-

their skills in the field of Java, Java Script,

sands are graduates of the most desirable

C # and Python programming languages.

faculties for the BSS industry: economics,

In addition, the course covered 10 teach-

finance and accounting, English philolo­-

ers of IT subjects who, under the super-

gy, electronics and telecommunications,

vision of IT experts, developed their skills

IT, management and production engi-

in learning programming.

neering. Universities react to the situation

In addition, thanks to the favor of

on the Kielce labor market on an ongo-

the owners of top IT companies, students

ing basis, opening new, prospective direc-

had a chance to see with their own eyes

tions. The Jan Kochanowski University in

what the programmer's work looks like

Kielce has in recent years created, among

and try their hand at IT. 22 entrepreneurs

others, medicine, Scandinavian studies

from Kielce showed their willingness to

conducted in English and data engineer-

share knowledge with the younger gene­

ing. On the other hand, the Kielce Univer-

ration of fans of new technologies. For

sity of Technology offers such specialties

a month, students gained new, practi-

as Building Information Modeling (BIM),

cal professional skills and learned about

ICT networks and computer control and

the work culture in the IT environment.

measurement systems.

The interns received a scholarship for their work.

BET ON STAFF – PROGRAM A BUSINESS IN KIELCE

est growing in the world, and specialists

In response to the demands of companies

in this field are in demand on the global

representing the modern business ser-

job market. Therefore, the project also

vices sector in Kielce, the City of Kielce

includes a specialist IT English language

decided to implement measures aimed

course, which provides young people

at the development of human resources

with additional professional skills.

The IT industry is one of the fast-

for future employers.

In addition to educational activities,

One of the most interesting initia-

as part of the project, an IT lab was reno-

tives of the City of Kielce in the recent

vated, modern equipment was purchased

period is the implementation of the pro-

– computers and devices, including visu-

ject entitled "High-quality qualifications

alizers, graphic tablets, a server, robots

and internships as the key to success

for learning programming.

in the IT industry", which was created

Currently, the project activities are

in response to the needs of the IT ser-

continued – another group of students

vices market. The project activities were

has started programming courses under

selected so that each of the 80 partici-

the supervision of trainers from leading

pating students (profiles of IT techni-

IT companies from Krakow and Warsaw.

cians and programmer of two second-

Young people also continue the specialist

ary schools in Kielce) would gain pro-

IT English language course.

fessional skills, which are so important

For details on the possibilities

on the labor market. And so the students

offered by Kielce please visit www.invest.

took a specialized programming course,

kielce.pl 

We are very happy that the obtained funding helps young people acquire important, practical IT skills necessary on the labor market.

The IT industry is one of the most important sectors in Kielce.

We believe that by helping students, already at the stage of school education, we shape human resources for investors!

And this will result in the development of our city.

– Mayor of Kielce, Bogdan Wenta

More information Investor Assistance Centre | Kielce City Hall Strycharska 6 Street, 25-659 Kielce Phone: +48 41 36 76 571, 41 36 76 557, e-mail: coi@um.kielce.pl www.invest.kielce.pl/en, www.mapa.invest.kielce.pl/en

Focus on Business | January–February 2022

51

INVESTMENTS

Digitization – Necessity or Opportunity?

Text | Jan Błażejewski

We are currently observing a global trend related to the broadly understood digitization of processes in corporations, public health institutions, and local governments. Is it just a trend or a real transformation that brings benefits? Jan Błażejewski from the IC Solutions company, based in Poznań, talks about the process of digitization in business.

After more than five years of working

a portfolio. There are many such companies

Working with a business advisor

in a company introducing to the market

on the Polish market and they possess

with practical knowledge concerning

a digitization system concerning paper

experience in developing and imple-

digitization will significantly facilitate

documentation and integrating it into

menting technologies for digitization.

the entire process, leading you on the right

the processes of companies, hospitals,

The second important factor that should

track, and answering your questions.

A properly selected expert will also offer

It should always be remembered that digitization must be an integrated element of the ecosystem which employees use for work, and facilitate their work.

the right tools and present a schedule for implementing the best solution. Very often, a company with the experience and knowledge in the field of digitizing processes already possesses ready solutions integrated with domain systems in va­­

or local government units, my answer is

not be underestimated is the price.

rious areas. This is undoubtedly a great

– digitization is an opportunity! We are

Certainly, one should not settle solely for

advantage of such a solution, as it will

dealing with a growing and strenght-

the lowest price when it comes to choos-

significantly facilitate the entire process,

ened trend. This process was reinforced

ing the technology and its provider. In

and at the same time will create a coher-

by the Sars-COV-2 virus pandemic and

this case, the old proverb "buy cheap, buy

ent environment that aggregates data

the necessity of implementing remote

twice" fits perfectly.

from various areas of the organization.

work, which significantly accelerated the digital transformation for many companies and entities.

Digitization is neither easy nor cheap, but with proper prepation of the company, which means both the purchase of the technology for digitization and its implementation, it is possible to assume large savings and a number of processes or image related benefits.

THE FIRST STEP IS THE HARDEST TO TAKE So you'll probably ask how to prepare for such an undertaking to prevent digi­ tization from becoming a ball and chain, and instead, to become a real optimization of processes and cost reduction in an or­­­­ganization? First of all, it is necessary to choose a partner already having

52

Focus on Business | January–February 2022

Unfortunately, the practice of many

in the era of universal access to the Inter-

organizations shows that digitization

net and Wikipedia (I know, these are not

often takes place to a company's most

always valuable data), when no one

important systems, which is a huge mis-

wants to go back to browsing paper pages

take because it limits the bene­fits from

in search of an interesting entry. The same

its introduction. It should always be

applies to digitization. Once we get used

remembered that digi­tization must be

to the fact that a contract signed yester-

an integral element of the ecosystem

day is already available in the system and

used by employees in their work and

can be easily viewed, no one will want

as such is meant to facilitate it. Only in

to return to a system requiring visits to

this way digitization can be effective and

the company's archives. In addition to

bring the most benefits, both measura-

convenience, quick access to informa-

ble (sa­vings, optimization) and difficult

tion results also in other benefits.

to measure (better image).

Let's imagine a situation in a hospital where a doctor saving someone's

Once we get used to the fact that a contract signed yesterday is already available in the system and can be easily viewed, no one will want to return to a system requiring visits to the company's archives.

life has to look at the patient's medical records. In such situations, time plays a key role. Thanks to the automatic digi-

New investment in the city

Name of the investor: B. Braun Business Services Sp. z o.o.

Country of origin: Germany Sector: Medical sector Number of workplaces: 135 Occupied space in m2: 440 Location in the city: Roosvelta, Poznań

tization of the patient's medical records and its integration with the domain system (HIS system), it is possible to view comprehensive medical records quickly and in its integrity. Our time is one of our most valuable resources, both in professional and private terms, so it is worth taking advantage of all available technological solutions that allow the optimization of our activities in such a way that the time is used as efficiently as possible.

B. Braun is one of the world’s leading manufacturers of medical technology and pharmaceutical products as well as a provider of medical services. The company

LET'S TALK ABOUT THE BENEFITS

DIGITIZATION AND RETURN ON INVESTMENT

What are the real benefits of implemen­

Someone will say – great, but I have to

in Nowy Tomyśl and Radzyń Podlaski and

ting digitization, apart from being in line

evaluate the financial benefits, and a busi-

the orthopedic hospital in Krakow. Our

with global trends? First of all, quick

ness case for implementing a technology

access to information. I belong to a ge-­ that enables digitizing documentation. neration that remembers painstaking

Here, an experienced business advisor

searching for entries in vast volumes of

from a provider of offering a digitiza-

encyclopaedias. Something unthinkable

tion system should also come in handy.

in Poland is represented by Aesculap Chifa.

We have a factory of surgical instruments

competence center was established in 2014 in Nowy Tomyśl and at the beginning it was focused only on the financial area.

As the center met the expectations of the concern, we were given the green light for further development. We extended our services to information technologies and human resources and therefore opened an office in a new location – Poznań. The dynamic development of the center resulted in the opening of the new company B. Braun Business Services, which supports the digital transformation of the entire concern.

Tomasz Wróbel Vice President of Finance, B. Braun

Focus on Business | January–February 2022

53

INVESTMENTS

cares about the environment. Eliminating traditional documentation means a real impact on reducing the use of paper.

Care for the environment and the fate of our planet can be seen in the strategies of almost all industries. Banks declare a reduction in plastic production thanks to new eco-plastic ATM cards, while car companies mainly advertise hybrid mo­dels. Therefore, it is worth not only creating the image of an eco-friendly company but actually being one. That A company representative will help to

can be really high. A proper and meticu-

way, our organization may become more

calculate the potential benefits of digi­

lous analysis of, for example, the above

cre­dible and achieve real image benefits.

tization. The first step should consist

mentioned parameters will allow us to es-

We can also observe digitization

of a database-­based calculation, taking

timate the costs of producing and han-

trends in the entire public sphere, where

into consideration those parameters that

dling paper documentation. Having such

digital document workflows systems such

are relevant in the context of return on technology investment. In the context

We can observe digitization trends in the entire public sphere, where digital document workflows such as EDM (medicine), ETO (HR), or EZD systems (local governments) are successively implemented.

of the profitability of the processes to be digitized, the following parameters are important: working time of emplo­ yees, speed of information transfer, costs related to the production of paper documentation, its circulation, storage, or subsequent digitization (scanning, indexation of documentation).

knowledge, it is possible to calculate

as EDM (medicine), ETO (HR), or EZD sys-

The employee's working time,

the return on investment in what refers

tems (local governments) are successively

which I mentioned, also stands for

to / related to digitization of documents

implemented. It is worth consi­dering

money, so shortening the time needed

and savings that the organization may

whether digitization is still a trend or is

for implementing a specific task (pro-

gene­rate in the coming years.

it already a real direction followed by all

cess) also means financial benefits for

industries and sectors? A direction that

the employer. It also sometimes hap-

DIGITIZATION IS ECO

allows to work efficiently and ma­nage

pens that companies have contracts for

I will talk about one more issue that is

the growing amount of data. So if we

external archiving of documents, docu-

worth emphasizing and that is often over-

add financial benefits as well as building

ment logistics, as well as the destruction

looked. In fact, by implemen­ting innova-

the image of a modern and environmen-

or indexation of documents. The sum of

tive solutions in favour of the broadly

tally friendly company to it, the answer to

all these costs, combined with the cost of

understood digitization, we build

the question from the title seems obvious.

printing or purchasing printer toners,

the image of a modern company that

Digitization is an opportunity for us all!

Author | More information Jan Błażejewski IC Solutions

54

Investor Relations Department | City of Poznań Za Bramką 1 Street, 61-842 Poznan Phone: +48 61 878 54 28, e-mail: inwestor@um.poznan.pl www.poznan.pl/invest

Focus on Business | January–February 2022

INVESTMENTS

Elbląg Technology Park – a place where science and business meets Interview with Arkadiusz Kosecki, Director of Elbląg Technology Park.

FOCUS ON Business: Technology Parks

In our facility, the tests are performed by:

conducts educational courses within

play a significant role in the develop-

1. CENTRE OF ENVIRONMENT QUALITY

the Academy of Young Chemists and

ment of entrepreneurship in Polish

(CENTRUM JAKOŚCI ŚRODO­WISKA,

ci­ties. When was the Elbląg Technology

CJŚ):

Park established and what has been its

The CJŚ comprises of two accredited

Emissions Testing – leased by the com-

history over the last few years?

laboratories that are equipped with

pany "ENVI-CHEM" Badania Chemiczne

the highest quality specialised test-

i Środowiskowe Sp. z o.o.

ing equipment.

The cooperation with the ETP enables

Arkadiusz Kosecki, ETP: Elbląg Technology Park celebrated its 10th anni-

workshops for uniformed services.

• Laboratory of Work Environment and

versary this year, as it was established on

• Laboratory of Advanced Environmen-

the laboratory to obtain funding and

1 April 2011. It is an institution support-

tal Analysis (Laboratorium Zaawanso-

support for the development of its activi­

ing entrepreneurship and launching inno-

wanych Analiz Środowiskowych EPT,

ties through the implementation of new

vative projects. Originally, it was assumed

LZAŚ EPT)

research methodologies. ENVI-CHEM is

that within five years 21 entities will be

Laboratory within the structures of

also accredited to perform a range of tests

seated there. We have managed to achieve

Elbląg Technology Park. LZAŚ EPT per-

of harmful and noxious factors at work-

this goal much faster, and at the moment

forms environmental tests such as tests

place, pollutants emitted into the environ-

the initial plan was exceeded four times.

of water, food, dietary supplements,

ment as a result of human activity, and

Our offer is currently used by 86 enti-

sewage, rainwater, soil, crop enhancers,

ties (including 32 Park lessees). As part of

waste sludge, environmental samples,

our Start-up projects we have incubated

alternative fuels, RDF, biomass, indus-

Centre of Metal Science is leased by

start-ups, supporting them in all possible

trial products or material tests.

Metrotest company.

chemical tests using traditional methods.

2. CENTRE OF METAL SCIENCE

areas of business. We have significantly expanded the range of our laboratory testing services by gaining further laboratory accreditations. This allows local companies to obtain precise tests results, which contributes to further development of these businesses.

There are as many as four Research and

56

In the ETP there are companies from various industries.

The largest part of them are companies from metal science and biotechnology research and development sector.

Elbląg and the surrounding area is a furniture hub, so it is not surprising that furniture cluster takes significant place.

Development Centres in the ETP. What

LZAŚ EPT is accredited by the Polish

METROTEST runs testing laboratories

are their field of operation and expertise?

Accreditation Centre to PN-EN ISO/IEC

specialising in metallographic exami­

As I have mentioned, supporting

17025:2018-02 "General requirements

nations, including material exper-

research and development activities is

for the competence of testing and cali-

tise of metal alloys and calibration of

an important part of the ETP's operation.

bration laboratories".

measuring instruments. It is accre­

It is worth mentioning that 3 of the labo-

Apart from accredited testing, the labo­

dited by the PCA to PN-EN ISO/IEC

ratories located in the ETP are ISO accre­

ratory also carries out other tests con-

17025:2018-02 "General requirements

dited, which further distinguishes these

tracted as part of research and devel-

for the competence of testing and cali-

laboratories and our Park.

opment work. The Laboratory also

bration laboratories".

Focus on Business | January–February 2022

In the ETP there are companies from various industries. The largest part of them are companies from metal science and biotechnology research and development sector. Elbląg and the surrounding area is a furniture hub, so it is not surprising that furniture cluster takes significant place. An important position is also held by a company opera­ting in the field of innovative underwater works, or a company dealing with research and production of cosmetics based on snail slime. In addition, we have tenants from the IT, biotechnology, construction projects, automation and telemetry and catering sectors. The ETP provides entrepreneurs with the possibility to lease available areas and office space, as well as to use infrastructure and professional consulting services, technology transfer and assistance in acquiring financial resources, including EU funds.

When inviting companies to coope­ rate with us we are always oriented to companies operating in the sector consistent with the strategy of the city of Elbląg, in industries that are in line with Regional Smart Specializations and their equivalent at the national level.

It is worth mentioning that in the last year our tenants and companies cooperating with the Park have been greatly interested in starting the investments on the areas under the mana­ gement of the Park Director. These are the companies that have reached the stage 3. CENTRE OF INFORMATION

and other materials. The available

TECHNOLOGY TRANSFER

infrastructure provides for perform-

The Centre is leased by Reversesolu-

ing ageing tests.

In Poland and worldwide, the use of

tions Sp. z o.o. The company employs

As you can see, the offer of our Park is

so-called flexible office space, as well

engineers who support the industry

very rich and allows for very speciali­

as various forms of support offered by

and advise individual customers on 3D

sed and unique tests in, what is very

technology parks, is becoming increas-

measurement, quality control, reverse

important, accredited laboratories.

ingly popular. What does the ETP offers

of scaling their business.

in this respect?

engineering or creating prototypes.

The 3D Prototyping Laboratory of the Centre for Information Technology Transfer enables the creation and implementation of application software and database systems, rapid proto­typing using specialised equipment (3D prin­ ting) and CAD/CAM systems, computer

Originally, it was assumed that within five years 21 entities will be seated there. We have managed to achieve this goal much faster, and at the moment the initial plan was exceeded four times.

graphics, multimedia and ICT. In addition to the R&D centres, your

We do not have flex offices in our

AND FURNITURE TECHNOLOGY

Park is a seat to a large number of

offer yet, this is a subject we are work-

Centre of Wood and Furniture Techno­

dif­­ferent companies. What indus-

ing on. However, we are open to new

logy is dedicated to performing strength

tries do these entities represent and

opportunities and we have the necessary

tests on various types of utility materi-

at what level do you support their

potential to create this type of offices if

als such as wood, composites, plastics

development?

only there is interest in such solutions.

4. CENTRE OF WOOD

Focus on Business | January–February 2022

57

INVESTMENTS

the future, i.e. development projects, bringing income, for business but also for the city. After all, the ETP as an organisational unit of Elbląg city must fulfil its mission of supporting the activities of the city authorities in the area of economic activation of the commune.

The coming years will be a period of struggle for the environment, so the park's activities should also be orien­­­­ted towards improving energy efficiency and dev­e­lo-­­­­­­ ping renewable energy sources. I see a great opportunity in the smooth im­­­ plementation of university research results into business. We should not waste the opportunity presented by the new financial perspective resul­ ting from the planned launch of further EU programmes.

We currently offer virtual offices, which

Many initiatives undertaken by my pre-­

are very popular, as well as incubation

decessor – Ms Urszula Małek – deserve

space for start-up companies. The Busi-

to be continued and I intend to do so.

ness Incubator operating in our struc-

However, coming to the ETP from the area

tures provides supporting services for

of business, I would like to boost coope­

companies in the early stages of devel-

ration with entrepreneurs, creating opti-

opment. Our offer includes free services

mal conditions for the development of

We also focus on: • the United Nations' agenda of 27 Sustainable Development Principles • activities related to combating the climate change and • implementation of a closed loop eco-­­­ nomy.

including access to an up-to-date database of orders and job offers, participation in training courses and conferences. We also offer support in obtaining external funding and market analyses.

Of course, business start-ups can count on the lease of offices on preferential terms and secretarial services.

The Business Incubator provides supporting services for companies in the early stages of development.

The offer includes free services including access to an up-to-date database of orders and job offers, participation in training courses and conferences.

You have taken up the position of EPT

entrepreneurship. I see the role of the ETP

I also would like to take this oppor-

Director at the beginning of Decem-

as an integrator of the university, busi-

tunity to encourage all interested parties

ber 2021. How do you currently see

ness and business environment institu-

to contribute to building a strong eco-

the future of the Elbląg Technology

tions. This is the concept of the so-called

nomic position for the city of Elbląg and

Park? Are you planning any initiatives

"Golden Triangle", which has evolved

its surroundings.

that will expand the current scope of

into a "Quadruple Helix Model", where

ETP activi­ties in the coming years?

all participants in the process are

Thank you for the interview. FOCUS ON

The ETP tasks are precisely defi­­

equally involved in achieving the objec-

Business wishes you effective imple-

ned in its Statute and therefore this is

tives. Eliminating the tendency to cater

mentation of the presented, such ambi-

the main determinant of its operations.

to needs instead of thinking about

tious plans.

More information Promotion, Culture and Tourism Department, Promotion and Entrepreneurship Unit | City Hall of Elbląg Stary Rynek 25 Street, Ratusz Staromiejski, IV floor, room 400, 82-300 Elbląg Phone: +48 55 239 32 90, 55 239 33 17 e-mail: invest@umelblag.pl www.inwestycje.elblag.eu

58

Focus on Business | January–February 2022

INVESTMENTS

Employer Branding on Jura!!!

Text | Anna Tymoshenko

Translation | Magdalena Wytrzymała

In Częstochowa, we focus on the quality of work – this works both ways.

In 2021, for the fourth time, the city has become the autumn capital of employer branding.

BETTER JOB NOW – THE INNOVATION IS OBVIOUS The Better Job Now programme is

New jobs for the inhabitants of Często-

to influence the profiling of their quali-

chowa have been one of the priori-

fications already at the level of secon­

based on three pillars of action:

ties of the Częstochowa local govern-

dary schools. The cooperation of entre-

• The "Fair Play" program promotes

ment in recent years. Better Work meets

preneurs and schools, both at the secon­

the principles of fair play in the labour

expectations, gives satisfaction, a sense

dary and tertiary level, is the only

market in Częstochowa: employing

of security, enables the development

chance to educate qualified staff, under

employees (minimum 80% of the staff)

and fulfilment of ambitions. The Better

the real needs of the local labour market.

directly, under contracts that do not

Job is also done by qualified and dedicated employees.

We want the labour market in Częstochowa to become the market of socially sensitive employers who care for its employee, knowing that it is his grea­

60

The Jurassic Economic Congress was crowned by the Gala of the "Jurassic Product of the Year" competition, which was held for the 21st time.

test capital. Entrepreneurs from Często-

The task of the local government is to cre-

bypass the provisions of labour law

chowa are aware of the necessity and

ate a platform for mutual understand-

and other initiatives as part of corpo-

importance of investments in the deve­

ing between these interdependent areas

lop­­­ment of human resources. Activities in

– education and business. That is why

• Center for Better Workplaces is located

the field of staff training cannot only take

the Center for Better Workplaces was cre-

in the City Hall of Częstochowa, at ul.

place inside the company. Entrepreneurs

ated and this is the idea behind the whole

Waszyngtona 5, room 112 in the Inves-

look for their future employees and try

Better Job Now programme.

tor Assistance Center. Within CFBW

rate social responsibility.

Focus on Business | January–February 2022

there is also a website called "Better Job Now", which allows students of secon­ dary schools, entrepreneurs and residents who want to change or find a job to meet in one place; • Goal: Your Development involves many initiatives aimed at improving the quali­fications of people who want to have a better job and focus on developing their professional competencies.

As part of the Programme, an Em­­­­­­ ployee Rights Ombudsman was appoi­­­nted, who acts in cooperation with CFBW. Częstochowa is a city of well-wor­ king and honest people, the work culture of Częstochowa residents is very high and industrial traditions, often cultivated from generation to generation, result in quali­ fied employees from the heavy industry and services industries. Entrepreneurship and creativity in Częstochowa helped the city flourish during the partitions and successfully pass the time of political transformations. Today, SMEs and fami­ly businesses are still the dri­ving force of the economy in the region and boldly cooperate with the world's largest corporations, all thanks to the quality of staff, their creativity and education. high quality, uniqueness and credibility.

as well as employee benefits and costs of

JURASSIC ECONOMIC CONGRESS IN CZĘSTOCHOWA FOR THE FOURTH TIME

The "Jurassic Product of the Year" pro-

good corporate image campaigns.

motes the principles of reliable busi-

The congress forum was attended

The Jurassic Economic Congress was held

ness operations, supports and pro-

by: the mayor of the City of Częstochowa,

on November 4 at the Arche Hotel. It was

motes local entrepreneurship and eco-

representatives of the Association of

crowned by the Gala of the "Jurassic Pro­

nomic initiatives.

Entrepreneurs and Employers of Często-

duct of the Year" competition, which was held for the 21st time.

We started with a panel called

The fourth edition of the Congress

chowa, the Regional Chamber of Industry

was devoted to cooperation on the level

and Commerce in Częstochowa, directors

o f B U S I N E S S - U N I V E R S I T Y - S E L F -­ and presidents of companies from Często-

"Częstochowa – Better Job Now". Immedi-

-GOVERNMENT and creating an atmos-

chowa, as well as experts in the image of

ately afterwards, the "Employer Branding

phere of partnership and opportunities

the employer, i.e. Zyta Machnicka (Light-

for large and small" workshops began.

for local companies. This year, the event

ness), Iwona Grochowska (NAIS) and

Later, two other panels and two blocks

was expanded to include Employer Bran-

Adam Wąsik (EB Laboratory).

of workshops took place.

ding workshops, during which empl­o­

The partner of this year's edition

"Jurassic Product of the Year" is also

yers could learn more about the image of

of the Congress was Pro Progressio and

a brand in itself. Its idea is to create op­­­

the employer and employee appreciation

the whole event, the day and the evening

portunities for entrepreneurs from

programs. The program includes discus-

part, were hosted by Anna Tymoshenko

the region to promote their unique

sions on the labour market in the Często-

– Head of the Investor Assistance Center

products and services distinguished by

chowa region, the Better Job Now program

in Częstochowa and Wiktor Doktór – CEO of Pro Progressio.

More information Investor Assistance Center Department of European Funds and Development | City Hall of Częstochowa Waszyngtona 5 Street, 42-217 Częstochowa Phone: +48 34 3707 212, +48 34 3707 213 e-mail: coi@czestochowa.um.gov.pl, fer@czestochowa.um.gov.pl www.czestochowa.pl

Focus on Business | January–February 2022

61

HR NEWS NEW MANAGING DIRECTOR OF EUROPE APPOINTED AT BURO HAPPOLD Global engineering, consultancy and

Berlin, Munich, Warsaw, Copenhagen

advisory practice Buro Happold has an­

and Rotterdam. Through organic growth

nounced Christian Ulrich as Managing

alongside strategic acquisitions, we will

Director of its expanding European busi-

strengthen the creative and technical

ness. Christian will lead the growth of

ta­lent across Europe that has earned Buro

Buro Happold’s geographical reach as

Happold its world-class reputation.

well as its service offer. Christian will also

James Bruce, Chief Executive

become Partner at Buro Happold and join

Officer, Buro Happold, added: Europe is

its Global Leadership Team.

central to our ambitions over the next five

His senior appointment reflects

years, so we are overjoyed to have Chris-

a successful career across a number of

tian at the helm. This is an incredibly excit-

major service providers in Germany,

ing time as we evolve as a business with

most recently as Chief Operating Officer

a far wider reach both on the continent

of Arcadis in Central Europe. He brings

and across the globe.

a wealth of expertise and relationships,

Christian’s appointment comes at

coupled with strong local knowledge and

a pivotal time for the company, and forms

insights into European markets.

a central part of its strategy. CEO James

For over 25 years, Buro Happold

Commenting on his appoint-

Bruce unveiled his ambitious plans in

has been involved in some of the most

ment, Christian said: I’m joining at

early 2021 to see the business double

iconic projects across Europe inclu­

the start of a hugely promising next

from 2,000 to 4,000 employees in six

ding Munich’s SAP Garden sports are-

chapter in the Buro Happold story. I will

years through acquisitions, joint ventures

na, the Varso Tower in Warsaw, and

be using all of my experience to build on

and partnerships in key regions across

the award-winning Lille Langebro bridge

the strong existing network already in

the globe, including Europe.

in Copenhagen.

RECORD DEMAND FOR EMPLOYEES IN THE FIRST QUARTER OF 2022 IN POLAND According to the latest ManpowerGroup

and the percentage planning to reduce

Large employers forecast the stron­

Employment Outlook Survey, in Q1 2022

the employment) reached + 25% and is

gest hiring activity with a Net Employ-

employers will have to face the compe-

one of the highest results in Polish sur-

ment Outlook of +34%. Elsewhere, Out-

tition for candidates at a record level.

vey history.

looks of +27% and +23% are reported

The Net Employment Outlook (the dif-

Polish employers report strong hir-

by Medium- and Small-size employers,

ference between the percentage of com-

ing intentions for the January to March

respectively, while the Outlook for Micro

panies planning to expand their teams

period. With 43% of employers expect-

firms stands at +4%.

ing to increase payrolls, 19% forecast-

In the 60th anniversary edition of

ing a decrease, and 36% anticipating

the ManpowerGroup Employment Out-

no change.

look Survey of more than 39,000 emplo­

Employers in all ten industry sec-

yers, all countries and territories report

tors surveyed expect to add to payrolls

a positive outlook for the first time since

during the coming quarter. With a NEO of

before the pandemic.

+39%, hiring managers in both the Construction and the Manufacturing sector

The outlook survey

expect especially strong staffing environ-

for the Q1/2022 in

ments. Other optymistic sectors are IT,

Poland is available

Technology, Telecoms, Communications

on the website:

&Media and also Banking, Finance, Insur-

manpowergroup.pl/en/

ance & Real Estate.

62

Focus on Business | January–February 2022

CAREER&DEVELOPMENT

What is the secret sauce to employer branding in BSS? Text | Joanna Dudar

Advanced business services are among the top leaders when it comes to the most attractive workplaces. While thinking about this industry, candidates most often associate it with such aspects as: a company’s good financial standing, employment stability, good reputation, professional development opportunities and a safe work environment during COVID-19.

According to the 11th edition of the Rand-

a good company financial standing were

feel that their current employer doesn’t

stad Employer Brand survey – pharma-

more important in Poland than the remu-

support their career progression or –

ceuticals and cosmetics, automotive and

neration. Back then, fear of loosing one's

from their point of view – supports them

vehicle components, household appli-

job was strong enough to place job secu-

in an inappropriate manner. They sim-

ances and the medical sector are the most

rity in the priority position.

ply wish they had this support.

attractive workplace in Poland. Raw

From the employer’s point of view,

According to our observations,

materials and fuels, the energy sector and

this means that in the upcoming period

the pandemic sparked off much anxi-

business services ranked top, however

we should focus not only on revising our

ety in the everyday functioning of com-

just beyond the podium. What’s impor-

remuneration policy and pay spines, but

panies and was the reason for suspend-

tant, Poles think about all above indus-

also ensure that there are rules in place

ing many initiatives. Our operations

tries that these are the places where it's

and clarity as to the form of employment,

were and still are permeated by a feeling

worth applying for a job.

as well as a contract duration strategy.

of being temporary. It changed the way we see the meaning of our work. We can

More than 3 thousand Poles admitted that they associate the BSS with professional growth. This means that we should pay even more attention to that element in our employment strategy and/or highlight it while creating job postings.

treat career progression as an opportunity for change that would bring us closer to achieving professional fulfillment.

How are the advanced business services sector employers assessed in this regard? More than 3 thousand Poles admitted that they associate the BSS with

WHAT ARE THE CHARACTERISTICS OF AN ADVANCED BUSINESS SERVICES SECTOR EMPLOYER?

For example, does our framework actu-

professional growth. This means that we

ally give the employees a sense of stability.

should pay even more attention to that

As it stems from our Randstad Em­­­­

element in our employment strategy and/

First: good company financial standing

ployer Brand 2021 survey, more than

or highlight it while creating job postings.

combined with job security

3 thousand candidates associate work in

Let us however pause for a moment

the advanced business services sector

Third: good reputation and a safe work

and look at the wider context, namely that

with good company financial standing

environment in the times of COVID-19

of the Polish labor market. Looking back

and job security. This is why it is easier

Right after the pandemic was anno-

at the results of the Randstad Employer

for employers from that sector to attract

unced in Poland, it became a priority to

Brand research from the times of

talents to their companies.

set up appropriate procedures and select

the financial crisis, we see that signi­ ficant changes in the most desirable

64

effective HR measures to ensure the emSecond: career development

ployees’ safety.

aspects of employment did not occur

It turns out that the biggest discre­-

It turns out that a sense of security

in an instant but rather over a period

pancy observed in the survey is between

at the current workplace (regardless of

of 5 years. And so between the years 2013

what the employee wants and what they

the industry) ranked third among the fac-

and 2014, for the first time in the 11-year

feel they receive from their current em-

tors associated with our current employer.

history of the survey, job security and

ployer. To put it simply, Polish employees

Representatives of the advanced business

Focus on Business | January–February 2022

It turns out that the biggest discrepancy observed in the survey is between what the employee wants and what they feel they receive from their current employer. To put it simply, Polish employees feel that their current employer doesn’t support their career progression or – from their point of view – supports them in an inappropriate manner.

services sector scored high in this do­

If the employees felt anxiety over

in subsequent periods. Unless we, as

main. A safe work environment was

the last year (fear of losing the job) and

the employer, respond quickly enough

found to be one of the five key aspects

there was no transparent communication

and adequately to this issue.

that are most strongly associated with

between the employee and the employer

working in the BSS sector.

or some measures were taken that were

The top five most widely recognized

not understood by the employees, it

aspects of such work also include a good

might turn out that the company will lose

reputation, which undeniably promotes

qualified employees soon when the situa-

building and/or reinforcing the attractive-

tion on the market becomes more stable.

ness of an employer brand.

This year the Polish edition of the Randstad Employer Brand survey

A FEW WORDS TO WRAP UP

shows that one in three employees in

There is no doubt that people are under

Poland saw their professional situation

the influence of the processes happen-

change due to COVID-19. As many as 30%

ing in the broader market and their deci-

of those declaring that they are afraid

sions and expectations are closely related

of losing their job in the next six months

to them. Therefore, continuous monitor-

consider leaving.

ing of what is important for employees

Ignoring some symptoms, such as

Randstad Employer Brand is a comprehensive employer brand survey based on the opinions of the general population.

The first survey was conducted in 2000 in Belgium. Today it is conducted in 34 countries with over 190,000 interviewees. This means that we have been gathering insights into successful shaping an employer brand image for 21 years.

In Poland the survey has been carried out since 2010.

In this year’s survey we asked almost 5 thousand Poles aged 18–65 to share their opinion. What is important, we analyze in the most thorough manner the working-age persons and thus this group is overrepresented in our sample.

We interview not only employees, but also students and persons seeking job, as we wish to grasp the perspective of the entire population, including their concerns and aspirations.

and the external brand perception – in

fear of the job loss, might have no imme-­­ The objectivity of the survey should also be

such a dynamic time as we are all having

diate negative consequences for the com-

– seems to be even more important than

pany, but they are very likely to be expected

stressed – an independent research agency, TNS Kantar, is responsible for sample completion and selection.

before. Only an employer who knows and understands the needs of their employees will be able to react quickly and adequately.

Author

What might happen if there is no transparent communication bet­­ ween the employee and the employer?

Joanna Dudar| Strategic Business Development Director, Randstad Polska

What might be the consequences for the company?

Focus on Business | January–February 2022

65

CAREER&DEVELOPMENT

Knowledge of niche languages is an asset in the labor market Interview with Marek Jankowicz-Bogdański, Project Manager and Dominika Paciecha, Senior Project Coordinator at Kelly Services, about the requirements for professional translators and the specificity of this profession.

FOCUS ON Business: How would you

dialects, and many different characters

describe specifics of the work of a pro-

and personalities. There are many other

medical, insurance, or finance-related

fessional translator?

branches of translations: sworn and legal

matters. Our interpreters work mainly

phone conversations regarding legal,

Marek Jankowicz-Bogdański,

translations, localization, or interpre­

for clients based in the United States

Kelly Services: Professional translators

ting. Of course, that does not conclude

and the United Kingdom, and the job is

and interpreters are responsible not only

all available options as there are many

entirely remote.

for word-to-word translation but also

different professions. In Kelly Services

To give you an example: a Polish

for bridging the gap between cultures,

Poland, interpreters handle real-time

immigrant living in the US with limi­ ted English proficiency visits a doctor.

The doctor can request a phone interpretation from our client via a dedicated mobile application. The call is rerouted to the interpreter, relaying the intended message from the source to the target language. Either Polish or English.

What are the formal requirements for translators? Are soft skills required in this profession?

Dominika Paciecha, Kelly Services: Soft skills are a must. To do their job correctly, translators must be cultu­ rally sensitive and careful with the words they choose. Even simple errors may disrupt the communication flow.

Near-native proficiency in both source and target language is another skill required from any translator on the job market. A translator is one of the jobs that requires lifelong learning. Language changes all the time, so a translator has to make sure they are always up to date with all the languages they translate. In Kelly Services Poland, we are looking for people with high empathy and the ability to handle stressful conversations.

In our case, linguistic background and education are not required, albeit welcome. We provide training and coaching sessions for our employees to develop their skills further.

66

Focus on Business | January–February 2022

Is it a niche job or the opposite? How

a high-demand language. A lot of Poles

When it comes to Kelly Services

do you see institutions and companies’

can speak in German, so the salary is not

Poland, we require bilingual proficiency

demand for translators?

as high as a Korean or Japanese speaker

in both English, and one of the other lan-

could expect.

guages interpreter would be required to

M.J.B.: The world is globalized and intertwined more than ever. Companies

work with.

are involved in international trade and

Let’s assume I know Spanish at a flu-

business, which requires professional

ent level, and I am considering a career

and accurate communication. There are

as a professional translator. Where to

all sorts of contracts, customer service

start from?

It would be at least C2 in both English and Spanish in this case.

A degree in linguistics is necessary if sworn translations are the main career

calls, and documents to be translated, so

D.P.: Choosing the right career is

choice. There are many other jobs, for

the demand will only continue to grow.

an important step. As I mentioned, there

example, in the gaming industry, that do

Poland has become an attractive destina-

are a lot of different language-related

not require any linguistic education.

tion for foreigners, and many foreigners in a given country mean numerous jobs related to translation and interpretation.

In my opinion, a translator will add value to any company operating in an international setting.

A degree in linguistics is necessary if sworn translations are the main career choice. There are many other jobs, for example, In the gaming industry, that do not require any linguistic education.

How much does a translator earn? What factors affect the translator’s salary?

professions on the job market, so any

Can I find a professional translator or

M.J.B.: Translators’ earnings depend

person interested in pursuing this career

a job as a translator with Kelly Services?

on multiple factors. The demand for

path should research the specifics of each

D.P.: Kelly Services Poland specia­

the language and how rare it is in a coun-

job and establish what they are interested

lizes in sourcing the best talent for our

try are essential factors. There are all

in. Some positions do not require native

clients from many different industries:

sorts of geopolitical factors as well. For

proficiency, so we should also consider

finance & accountancy, digital & tech,

example, Poland has a strong partner-

how many languages we know and at

sales, marketing, supply chains, mana­

ship with Germany, and thus German is

which level of command.

vgement & consulting, and many more.

A lot of these positions are multilingual.

Currently, our BPO branch is hiring interpreters for the biggest company providing over-the-phone interpretation. We are looking for the best talent in Poland and many other places around the globe.

Which are the most demanded languages on the market? Is English still dominant?

M.J.B.: In the globalization era abi­ lity to speak in more than one language is becoming a necessity. People who possess this skill find it easier to communicate while traveling, browsing the internet, or in business. Many employers are looking for foreign language proficiency, and English is required in almost every global corporation nowadays.

Mastery in the niche foreign language may be beneficial during the job search. In my career, I have been wor­ king with people using popular languages such as Brazilian-Portuguese, Korean, Japanese, and some less usual: Uzbek, Urdu, or Finnish. Of course, the demand depends on multiple factors and changes over time, but currently, knowledge of Asian and Scandinavian languages is advantageous in the job market.

Thank you for the interview.

Focus on Business | January–February 2022

67

Modern portal for the Business Services Sector

focusonbusiness.eu