Swindon & Wiltshire News
Salisbury’s WBR Group introduces four-day week
Salisbury-based WBR Group, the UK’s largest independent provider of SSAS services and tax experts, are to introduce a four-day working week.
Based on the 100-80-100 model – 100 per cent productivity delivered over 80 per cent of the working week and with no loss of salary or other benefits – WBR has introduced the initiative to become the ‘employer of choice’ in Salisbury.
CEO Tom Moore presented the benefits and challenges to business leaders during an interview at the Wall Street Journal CEO Summit held this month in London.
He told delegates he wanted to boost staff retention and recruitment while maintaining efficiency, positioning WBR as a beacon of excellence in the finance industry.
David Downie, managing director of SSAS and Actuarial at WBR Group, said: “Our decision to implement a four-day working week was inspired by extensive international research which showed that employees who have more time to rest and recharge are more productive during their working hours.
“The initiative has led to more focused teams, faster client response times and superior work quality. Our teams have been at the forefront of changes and has been very much an employee-led implementation.
“The initial six-month review reveals that the four-day working week is improving employee wellbeing and fostering a more harmonious balance between work and personal life.
“So, we are seeing not only healthier and more motivated staff but also that they are significantly more productive and equipped and ready to meet post-pandemic challenges.”
Paige Holvey, client associate at WBR Group said: “Just a few weeks into the trial, I have found that I plan my work in advance more and structure my days better.
“This has come naturally to me, as I now look ahead at my availability, and I know what can and cannot be achieved. This in turn helps me manage expectations both internally and externally.
“I find that I am more open with my clients on when I will be available and feel confident giving achievable timeframes.
“Because I’m more confident with them, they’re more confident with me and overall seem happier with the level of service given. I’m grateful that the company are leading the four-day working week initiative and the benefits I have already felt from it have been brilliant.”
