LISTEN: Four-day week in offices ‘could transform Guernsey’

PwC will launch a trial of a four-day working week for five days’ pay in the next few weeks.

‘It is about us being an international finance centre and for us to show that we are forward-thinking in the workplace, we are looking to attract staff so we need to differentiate ourselves – we want to be different to what it is like to work in London or Luxembourg,’ said managing partner Evelyn Brady.

‘We want to be able to say come and work in Guernsey, enjoy working with global clients, and enjoy what is a wonderful place to live.’

She said the firm would continue to adapt the four-day week model during and after the trial.

‘It’s never going to be “one size fits all” so it will be modified as we go forward. This is the start, I don’t suspect it will be the end of the story.’

Ms Brady said she expected to see more collaborative working, with shared spaces and hot-desking in the office.

Listen to more from PwC Guernsey managing partner Evelyn Brady on the latest Guernsey Press Business Podcast:

PwC has already been a leader locally in flexible working and use of mobile phones rather than landlines.

The model is intended to increase staff retention, which she said was one challenge PwC faced.

The pilot will be considered successful if the physical and mental health of staff was improved and people felt able to work in a way that suits their own needs, she said.

‘You might have to work less [time] but you’ll be more productive,’ said Ms Brady.

But the traditional, individual desk may go as a result.

‘I’m not sure that is something relevant going forward.

‘When we look at the future of work we’re looking at a much more flexible workspace.

‘But I think the office is still an important part of anyone’s career because you need to work with people – you need to be coached, you learn from each other and get energy from each other. There is a social element involved, it’s about balance.’