International firm Baker & McKenzie will roll out agile working across its global network, offering flexible working to its entire headcount. 

The change will be brought in with immediate effect across the firm’s 77 offices, a spokesperson confirmed today. 

The firm told the Gazette the programme will include alternative working hours, remote working, and regular working time outside of the office.

The initiative is being led by Peter May, chief talent officer at the firm, and global executive committee member Claudia Prado.

May told the Gazette the decision came off the back of a global engagement survey conducted last year in which one of the issues that surfaced was a desire for ‘flexible working’, including remote working and flexible hours.

’We understand that in the 21st century workers needs change and that there should be a new approach that realises people have different needs,’ he said.

May said while demands on physical premises may change eventually the benefits of the programme would have a ‘positive effect on staff including on productivity and morale’.

The firm will now enter into an 18-month implementation period where it will bring its working policy across its global offices into line with those that already offer flexible working, including the UK and Spain.

Baker & McKenzie has 4,607 lawyers including 1,580 partners.