Nationwide CEO Warns Remote Work May Hinder Women's Career Progression

Debbie Crosbie highlights concerns that women working from home are missing key opportunities for professional development and advancement.

Nationwide CEO Debbie Crosbie expressed concerns that women who work remotely are less likely to access opportunities for career growth compared to men who attend the office more frequently.
Crosbie emphasized the importance of 'development-watching,' where employees learn by observing senior leaders navigate challenges, which is harder to achieve remotely.
Nationwide shifted from a 'work anywhere' policy to requiring employees to be in the office at least two days per week, following trends in hybrid work post-pandemic.
Women are more likely than men to embrace flexible working due to childcare responsibilities, but this could coincide with critical career stages, particularly as women are having children later in life.
Broader research supports Crosbie's concerns, with studies indicating that in-person office presence can significantly impact promotion chances, particularly for women.