To allow its employees to enjoy better work-life balance, Marico, the Indian FMCG company, has announced a hybrid model of work for its Indian workforce starting October 2021. Under the new Ways of Work (WoW) design, the employees or members as they are referred to, will enjoy more flexibility being allowed to work from the office at reduced, but defined frequency.
Amit Prakash, CHRO, Marico, says that the hybrid model has been introduced with an aim “to appeal to the sensibilities and preferences of the new-age professionals while delivering on the business needs. With this development, we will be equipped to not only attract talent from across geographies but also mitigate attrition by retaining members who choose to leave due to locational constraints.”
The objective is to offer a work model that will provide the benefits of work from home as well as office to better manage work and family needs, even while delivering on business commitments. The move falls in line with its commitment to deliver a superlative talent value proposition (TVP), by ensuring higher satisfaction, engagement, and productivity for its employees through enhanced workplace flexibility.
The new policy will see employees being moved to a Work from Office on Roster (WFOR) system under which they can come to the office on a pre-decided frequency.
Over the next 12-18 months, all employees or members across grades, based on individual needs and roles, will be allowed to work from a location outside their ‘base location’.
This will not be a role-forward policy, but a member-forward request based on personal circumstances. Members can avail this option if their partner’s work location is based out of Marico’s base location and if an immediate family member is in need of immediate medical attention for an extended duration. On the basis of the life stage of the member, other circumstances of special situations may also be discussed with the managers and approval sought from the respective CXO and CHRO on a case-to-case basis.
Changes will be made to the office infrastructure, to ensure optimal space utilisation and seamless work. A ‘hot desking’ area will also be set aside for members coming out of turn. Such members can book the space in advance through the Company’s proprietary Hot Desking app. Laptops have already been provided to all members. The Company has enforced stronger cybersecurity measures, implemented an organisation data classification framework, launched new internet policy, and also introduced an MS Productivity tool to facilitate members’ work routines.
Marico will conduct periodic Glint Engagement Surveys to take feedback from staff regarding the hybrid experience. It will also hold discussions with smaller groups to identify opportunities for improving engagement and productivity.
Marico, which is known for its Saffola and Parachute brands, is amongst India’s leading consumer products companies, in the global beauty and wellness space.
