CEOs doubling-down on the return-to-office debate

In the 10th edition of the KPMG CEO Outlook, we capture insights from global and Philippine business leaders on key topics such as the race to embrace artificial intelligence and rising geopolitical concerns.

- SHARON DAYOAN

In this four-part series, we begin by focusing on Talent—examining internal challenges like workforce upskilling and hybrid work models. We also explore how Philippine CEOs are addressing these issues, comparing their approaches with global trends as they navigate the pressures of staying agile, managing stakeholders and driving long-term growth.

In today's evolving work landscape, employees are seeking greater flexibility in their work arrangements and a nurturing environment that supports their diverse needs.

Leaders who respond to these expectations foster talent by creating adaptable environments, which is especially important during challenging economic times.

This year's findings reveal that CEOs are hardening their stance on returning to pre-pandemic ways of working. In the Philippines, a majority of the CEO respondents envision a return-to-office arrangement in the next three years for corporate employees whose roles were traditionally office-based.

Moreover, half of Filipino CEO respondents shared that employees who regularly come into the office may naturally have greater visibility for assignment, raises, or promotions, while the other half have expressed neutrality on the matter.