Rethinking the office: a finance leader’s perspective
Commentary by Yogendra Sharma, FairStake Consulting, on McKinsey’s 2020 article
McKinsey’s article, Reimagining the office and work life after COVID-19, asks organisations to reconsider how work is done and what the office is for. That question remains useful, even though the article was written during the pandemic.
For a growing business, I would start with the work itself. A finance team may prepare forecasts and management reports across locations, but good decisions still require clear ownership, reliable information and regular discussion with business leaders. Working arrangements should support those outcomes.
Before changing office space or adopting more tools, I would ask: Which activities benefit from meeting in person? Where are reporting delays or handoffs occurring? Can leaders access consistent numbers? Are financial controls and confidential information protected?
The aim is a practical way of working that improves visibility, accountability and collaboration. The right balance will differ by business.
Original source: McKinsey & Company, “Reimagining the office and work life after COVID-19” (8 June 2020).
