INDUSTRY RETURN TO OFFICE WORKING POLICIES What our insights show By Julia Day
The CK Group recently carried out a survey across a range of organisations within the life sciences arena in the UK to enquire about their plans for returning to offices when the pandemic restrictions finally allow. This was carried out with the 21st June target in mind. However, even with the extended restrictions in place, the results have been fascinating. It was a difficult subject to fit into 9 questions as each item seemed to lead to more questions but we’ve done our best to try and capture some of the effects the pandemic has had on the ways we might work in the future; at least in relation to office presence. Of the companies who responded it was surprising, and quite pleasing, to see that 100% are planning to retain an element of home working.
We had a great response from the 1000 human resources professionals and hiring managers we invited to participate, so if you are one of those who took the time to provide the information, thank you!
What was even more surprising was the element of flexibility that appears to be on offer, with 45% of responders stating they are not implementing a minimum number of days per week or month to be on-site. However, it’s safe to say the overall trend or expectation seems to be 2 - 3 days a week in the office or as and when required by the business, but with no minimum requirement. Interestingly, 38% of responders are not planning on reopening offices at all when the easing of restrictions allow. The flexibility being offered appears to be available to the majority of workers, including new starters and people working at all levels, with 94% of responders stating this was the case.
So, now to share some of the data and insights we gained … First of all, I’d like to set the scene. All the companies who took part were based in the UK, although with a varied geographical remit and size. Around 47% were UK centric, 17% working across the EMEA or EU and 36% operating globally. In relation to size, 26% were small / start up (less than 50 employees); 30% small (50-300 employees); 11% medium (300-700 employees); 33% large (700+ employees). The majority were pharmaceutical and biotechnology companies (50% and 17% respectively) and the rest a mix of medical devices, CROs, service providers and healthcare organisations. 28
