Håkan Samuelsson is back as CEO at Volvo Cars. Now he is banning all employees from working from home.
Håkan Samuelsson has returned as CEO of Volvo Cars. One of his first decisions is to change the rules for working from home.
Employees will now have to come into the office every day in Torslanda, marking a shift from the Swedish carmaker's previous practice.
The new CEO has communicated the new policy to all employees via a letter. Previously, under previous CEO Jim Rowan, employees had the option to work from home on selected days. That flexibility is now being removed.
The decision comes at a time when the automotive market is experiencing increased competition. Volvo Cars' management believes that an office presence is necessary to meet the challenges of the future.
Samuelsson has also held a live event for all employees. Here he explained the background to the decision and the seriousness of the situation. He emphasized the need for maximum presence in the workplace.
Volvo Cars' press officer, Magnus Holst, elaborates on the rationale behind the change. He points to the importance of physical presence for the company's future.
Focus on collaboration and culture at Volvo
"We believe that working in the office promotes better collaboration," Magnus Holst tells Göteborgs-Posten (GP). He adds that it also improves the company culture.
It's about strengthening the internal dynamic. The physical presence should make it easier to exchange ideas spontaneously.
Management believes that direct interaction is crucial. It should ensure faster problem solving and a more efficient workday.
"Our focus for 2025 and beyond is on delivery," Holst further explains to GP. A strategy that prioritizes the office is seen as crucial to achieving the goals.
Spontaneous interactions and quick problem-solving are more difficult to achieve remotely, according to the press manager. Therefore, physical presence is now given greater importance.
Back to the Torslanda offices
Håkan Samuelsson's return to the top job took place just under two weeks ago. His decision to call in the staff is a significant change.
The office complexes in Torslanda will once again become the daily focal point for all employees. It is a clear signal of a new direction for Volvo Cars.
Although the general rule is now to be present every day, exceptions are being made. An employee may still be allowed to work from home. However, this requires approval from the immediate manager.
It is still unknown how employees will react to the change. The recall to the office is a trend also seen in other large companies globally.
Volvo, like the rest of the automotive industry, is facing major upheavals. Electrification and new technologies require close coordination and innovation. Management sees the office as the best setting for that work.
At Boosted.dk we follow developments at Volvo closely. You can read more news about Volvo and their latest car models, even when things are going badly and it is really expensive to be Swedish-Chinese.
