HSBC tightens remote work policy with four-day office mandate for top brass

HSBC Holdings Plc is tightening its return-to-office policy, mandating that all managing directors work on-site at least four days a week beginning October 2025.

According to an internal memo reviewed by Bloomberg News, the bank emphasized that senior leaders must "set the tone from the top" as "in-person interactions are essential to how we lead and deliver for our customers." A spokesperson for HSBC has confirmed the authenticity of the communication, the report added.

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HSBC clarified that the directive includes working from HSBC offices, interacting directly with clients, or participating in conferences, stakeholder visits, offsite meetings, and similar work-related engagements.

This policy shift follows a broader industry trend. Earlier this year, JPMorgan Chase & Co. required all employees to return to the office full-time.

Across the financial sector, leaders have voiced concerns about collaboration, productivity, and mentorship in remote setups, prompting a re-evaluation of hybrid working norms.

HSBC's mandate also comes against the backdrop of a significant operational challenge: desk shortages. As the bank prepares to transition to a new global headquarters in London next year, reports suggest that the institution is facing a projected shortfall of approximately 7,700 desks - raising questions about how increased office attendance will be managed, the report added.

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