HSBC phases out work-from-home flexibility for frontline staff in Hong Kong

HSBC Holdings is phasing out its remote-work flexibility as it tightens its post-pandemic policy in Hong Kong, requiring frontline employees to be in the office or meet clients five days a week.In an internal memo seen by the South China Morning Post, the city’s largest bank asked client-facing staff, including traders and salespeople, to follow the new rules from April 1.Managing directors and senior managers with direct reports must attend the office at least four days a week, while all other staff need to be present at least three days, with one of those days being either a Monday or a Friday, subject to office space availability.“Being together in person matters. It allows faster decision-making, problem-solving and project delivery, which can be challenging to replicate virtually,” said the memo sent on Monday from Maggie Ng, CEO of HSBC Hong Kong.The new work rules take effect from April 1, according to HSBC. Photo: Eugene LeeThe memo urged people managers to lead by example, saying they were instrumental in driving good practice and experience. “We ask you to role model the change with clear guidance,” it added.