Connells sets new cap on hours for thousands of staff
The UK's largest estate agency group, which includes Countrywide, has told all its 5,000 employees their new working week is 37.5 hours, down from 41.5.
Connells Group has revealed major changes to working hours for thousands of staff across its brands.
The changes mean all staff hours will be capped at 37.5 hours per week, down from the previous level of 41.5 hours.
In a move the company is calling ‘harmonisation’, branch hours at all its 1,200 offices, including Countrywide, will be set as 9am-5.30pm Monday to Friday, and 9am-2pm on Saturday.
Sources suggested there would be a reduction in pay and a requirement to work six days a week.
No change to pay
But Connells is stressing that “there will be no changes to pay, annual salaries, allowances and benefits” for its 5,000 employees.
“Working patterns will be agreed locally at branch level to make sure everyone has a working week that works for them as individuals,” the firm says.
We’re committed to evolving as a forward-thinking employer who values both customer needs and employee wellbeing.”
Chris Rosindale, who was appointed Chief Operating Officer at Connells in January, told The Neg: “This is great news for our customers and colleagues.
“By harmonising our opening hours based on customer feedback and investing in a healthier work-life balance for our colleagues, we’re committed to evolving as a forward-thinking employer who values both customer needs and employee wellbeing.”
New CEO
In September, former Your Move MD Helen Charlesworth became permanent CEO at Connells, taking over from interim boss Richard Twigg.
And in January, the group announced a major shakeup of its senior leadership team, with some senior executives who had served with the estate agency for decades leaving.
