Grant Thornton trials 9-day fortnight

National accounting firm Grant Thornton has announced a six-month trial for a nine-day working fortnight, commencing 1 March 2023.

All offices nationally will remain open five days a week to continue servicing clients during normal business hours.

Grant Thornton CEO Greg Keith said the accounting firm will be “bold in trying something different as we want a better outcome for our people and our clients”.

Moreover, he believed that the current working system is “broken” in light of high volumes of reported increases in stress and health issues from the professional services workforce.

“We see an irresistible opportunity to improve quality, client service and our people’s wellbeing,” Mr Keith added.

If employees maintain productivity and KPIs are met, the firm will accordingly consider either adopting the nine-day fortnight permanently or further trial a four-day week if it is extremely successful.

The firm said in a statement that the upcoming trial aligns with its purpose to support its people and clients.

Grant Thornton additionally expects the reviewed working fortnight will improve wellbeing outcomes, in addition to attracting and retaining talent.

Moreover, the shift will help close the gap between men and women when it comes to childcare and parenting, affording them more flexible work hours and time to invest in their families, the firm explained.

“Whilst this trial prioritises our clients and their expectations, our people will also benefit from additional time to recharge,” the CEO said.

“We will be closely engaging with clients throughout the trial to ensure the quality we deliver and their experience improves as expected.”