Actuaries Institute Podcast

This instalment of the Institute's Diversity and Inclusion series asks the Chief Actuary at MLC Insurance, Darren Robinson, about his experience managing employees with flexible work (remote location and part time) arrangements. Darren discusses the value of an 'agile coach' in supporting part-time staff and how productivity, retention and morale can be affected by flexible working.Ashish Ahluwalia (Principal at Finity Consulting) discusses with Darren, the increasing take-up of flexible work arrangements and how - with the correct planning, level of trust, capability and communication - both employers and employees can benefit. Darren explains some of his own staff's requests - including when returning from maternity leave and scenarios where 'Head Of' Departments moved interstate - and offers advice for both employees and mangers on negotiating such arrangements.Darren emphasises that maintaining strong lines of communication, despite the geographical distance, is important. As is facilitating 'water-cooler