Breaking the Mould: Reimagining Work for a New Era

Delivered at the Singapore FinTech Festival, this panel discussion explored how new work models like fractional leadership, flexible arrangements, and lifelong learning are redefining the workplace for a more inclusive and sustainable future. 

Key Highlights 

1. Examples of Shifting Work Models 

• Fractional work:  
  • Fractional work at the leadership level involves seasoned professionals dedicating 1–2 days a week across multiple organisations, balancing expertise and flexibility. 
  • Fractional work at the employee level allows themto balance financial stability and create their own purposeful ventures. 
• Consulting: is more project-based, with consultants deeply embedded in specific tasks. 

2. Adapting HR Policies to Modern Needs 

• Flexible Work Arrangements: 
  • New tripartite guidelines in Singapore introduced flexi-place (remote work), flexi-time (adjusted hours), and flexi-load (job sharing) as starting points to modernise policies. 
• Employee Support Initiatives: 
  • Programmes like Unilever’s UI Founders empower employees to pursue entrepreneurial ventures while contributing to the company’s growth. 

3. Flexibility Drives Engagement: 

• Employees thrive when trusted to decide their work settings, with flexibility fostering loyalty and safeguarding well-being. 
• Unilever allows employees to work globally for a month; 15% of the organisation has taken up this perk and none of them has violated this policy, demonstrating the success of such policies.  

4. Redefining Retirement and Combatting Ageism 

• Evolving Definitions: 
  • Traditional retirement is giving way to extended careers in the knowledge economy, where senior workers’ experience adds significant value. 
  • Programmes re-integrating retired professionals as mentors are thriving, particularly in cultures valuing seniority. 

• Fighting Stereotypes: 
  • Ageism affects both young and older workers. Organisations must foster an inclusive mindset to unlock potential across all generations. 

By thinking about building a workplace that will be great for our parents, our future selves and our children we are likely to be more empathetic and be able to build a better workplace culture. Redefining work with flexibility, inclusion, and purpose at its core, organisations can empower employees while achieving sustainable growth.  

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Speakers: