Actuarial, administration and consultancy services provider Barnett Waddingham has implemented a new flexible working framework to allow staff to carry out their duties in a way that is best for them and their clients.
The arrangement, known as WorkSmart, was developed following regular engagement with both the organisation’s staff and customers over the past year as part of a collaborative approach to ensure everyone’s needs are met and the business can continue to operate.
According to Barnett Waddingham, the initiative provides a clear framework for its more than 1,320 staff to identify how and where they will work to get their best work done. This might be in the office or at a client’s office or at home, and a blend of working locations is anticipated during a typical week.
Ongoing investment in technology meant the business was able to move its entire workforce to remote working from the beginning of the first Covid-19 (Coronavirus) lockdown with minimal disruption to ensure the ongoing levels of service that its clients expect.
Senior partner Andrew Vaughan explained that the initiative is a flexible working approach with the principle of doing the right thing at its core. He said the organisation had considered the wants and needs of its clients and staff, both now and in the future.
“We have purposely taken our time to find the right approach for Barnett Waddingham by proactively engaging our people and clients on this new way of working. We are extremely confident that WorkSmart enables us to deliver a fantastic service while also making Barnett Waddingham an incredible place to work and develop your career,” he commented.
Vaughan added that the programme prioritises ongoing investment in staff, technology, culture and office space, and is a clear signal of the organisation’s commitment and ambition to continue building a leading independent business that has a positive impact on clients, employees and their careers, and the environment.