The Edge for May 2021
The state is set to lift many pandemic restrictions on May 19. So we asked New Jersey business executives whether they expect employees to return to the office full-time, or has working from home during the shutdown demonstrated that a hybrid – or even a full-time remote work situation – is the best way to move forward. Here is what they said:
A Plan to Ease Everybody Back to the Office in September
Beginning July 6, employees will return to work using a ‘Team A/B’ structure on alternating weeks, providing for a gradual return. They will be expected to strive for three days on site during their designated week. However, we will be flexible for those without childcare. Beginning Sept. 6, employees will be expected to return permanently, supported with work-from-home days to be used as they wish for 2021. We anticipate one to two work-from-home days per week for each employee. Work-from-home days can be used as a lump sum, weekly, or a combination of both. We will evaluate this hybrid work arrangement in the fall before any permanent decisions are made for 2022.
– Brydget Falk-Drigan, Executive Vice President, Chief Human Resources Officer, Peapack-Gladstone Bank
‘Our Associates Can Work In a Hybrid Model and Succeed’
Determining the direction of a return-to-work plan must take into consideration employee vaccination rates, state and federal guidelines, office design, and our team’s safety. I don’t see us as a 100% virtual organization, nor do I see us requiring everyone to be onsite all day, everyday. A workforce capable of working virtually, especially on a moment’s notice, is a key component of our business continuity planning. I am confident that our associates can work in a hybrid work from home/onsite model and succeed.
– Dennis Wilson, President & CEO, Delta Dental of New Jersey
‘Our Professionals Have Proven They Can Serve Clients No Matter Where They Are Based’
We envision a hybrid model for our Short Hills office. Many of our people will work remotely going forward, with the office space used for collaborating, relationship-building and brainstorming – especially with clients. Focused work can be done at the location our people choose. Our professionals have clearly shown their ability to serve clients no matter where they are based.
– Jen Shimek, Managing Partner, Short Hills Office, KPMG
‘We’ll Do Some Things Differently’
Certainly, we’ll do some things differently. Business development team members normally based at our corporate office will likely continue working remotely for the foreseeable future. Other corporate employees will be assessed individually, with some returning to the office, others continuing remotely, and others assuming hybrid schedules. These decisions will be based on various criteria, including roles, responsibilities, the amount of time typically spent outside the office, and also input from our various business lines and their staff. Overall, we’ve learned from the pandemic, and we’ll use those lessons wisely.
– Craig Montanaro, President and CEO, Kearny Bank
