HSBC Splits Top APAC Role

The bank’s headquarters in Central will be open to all employees from Monday, as the fourth wave of Covid-19 infections ease in the territory.

Staff will be able to return to their desks subject to seating capacity plans in individual departments, citing an internal memo seen by the newspaper.

Businesses and functions are encouraged to determine appropriate in-office and remote working ratios for their teams based on new ways of working,» the memo said. Staff who choose to work from home for personal or family reasons will be allowed to do so.

The bank’s headquarters have been closed since March, after several staff working there tested positive for Covid-19.

The British lender has embraced flexible working, and recently changed its human resources guidelines to allow home-based remote working for as many as four days a week.

In Singapore, where the bank employs some 3,300 staff, its Future of Work plans are underpinned by ensuring customer focus; flexibility for how, when, and where employees work; and ensuring that its offices are designed and used to build collaboration and networks.

Statements issued by multiple global banks in Hong Kong have indicated gradual resumption towards normal operations after months of tightened social distancing measures.

HSBC is among financial sector firms that have joined the city’s push for wider adoption of vaccination. The bank is offering Hong Kong-based employees one day off per dose of vaccine received – a benefit entitled to even previously vaccinated staff.

In May, Hong Kong authorities said senior executives of financial firms in the city apply for exemptions from the compulsory quarantine arrangements when they return or travel to Hong Kong.