Citigroup has confirmed it will press ahead with hybrid working for most of its global workforce, bucking a growing shift among Wall Street rivals towards five days a week in the office.
The US banking giant’s chief executive, Jane Fraser, recently assured managing directors that Citi staff may continue working up to two days a week remotely.
The decision contrasts sharply with other major institutions such as JPMorgan Chase, which last month ordered employees to return to full-time office attendance. Barclays has also followed suit, stipulating three days a week at its London headquarters, up from two.
Despite Citi’s flexible stance, the bank is stepping up scrutiny of staff attendance, using security pass data to ensure they come in at least three days a week. It employs 229,000 people globally, including 14,000 in the UK. Citigroup’s long-term commitment to office space is underscored by a £1bn renovation of its Canary Wharf skyscraper, due for completion in 2026.
The hybrid model stands in stark contrast not only to many peers in finance but also to sectors beyond banking. The Trump administration recently offered redundancy packages to a large share of US government workers refusing a full-time office return, while Amazon chief executive Andy Jassy has insisted on five days in the office for his workforce since January.
Jane Fraser says the hybrid policy gives Citi an edge in recruiting talent and supporting a healthy work-life balance, though critics argue in-office proximity fosters better collaboration and mentorship. Citigroup declined to comment beyond Fraser’s earlier statements.
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Citigroup bucks ‘return to office’ trend by committing to hybrid working