At IFM, flexible work isn’t just written into our policies – it’s a lived part of how we support our people every day.

 

We recognise that IFM is a global business, and our flexible work approach is thoughtfully designed to meet the needs of both our people and the organisation. It’s built on trust, mutual benefit, and the belief that flexibility should empower individuals to take ownership of their day – supporting personal circumstances, enabling collaboration across time zones, and allowing space to celebrate life’s successes or navigate more challenging moments

 

Our Remote Working Policy – an important part of our flexible work offerings – was introduced during the COVID-19 pandemic, when many families were separated across borders. Designed to support employees navigating personal circumstances, the policy enables a temporary change to an employee’s work location – domestically or internationally for a set period, subject to applicable work rights and legislation.

 

Since its inception, this policy has become an important support for our people, including carers and those with family responsibilities. One powerful example comes from a colleague in our Tax Operations team, based in Melbourne, who used the remote work, flexible work, and carers leave to temporarily work from Canada to care for their mother.

 

Here’s their story:

 

“My 89-year-old mother lives in Canada, where my sister has been her primary carer for many years. In August, Mum was hospitalised, and her health began to decline rapidly. It seemed unlikely she would make it to Christmas.

 

My sister was exhausted, and I felt compelled to be there – not only to support Mum, but also to care for the carers: my sister and her partner.

 

Advocating for Mum with hospital staff became a full-time job for several weeks, and part-time for several more. My sister simply couldn’t do it all – she was managing countless day-to-day responsibilities and couldn’t be at the hospital during regular hours.

 

Because I was there, my sister and her partner were able to take two weekends away – relaxation time they desperately needed and have not had since my last visit.

 

I understand how challenging it is for an organisation to manage workflow and deliverables while supporting employees working part-time, across time zones, and through significant life events. And yet, IFM did this for me.  I’m grateful to work at IFM because I feel that the organisation genuinely cares for their people — not just as employees, but as whole individuals.

 

My Mum continues to survive and even thrive again out of hospital.

 

IFM’s Chief Operating Officer, Amy Diab, shared:

“Supporting this request was a straightforward decision. We recognise that life doesn’t always fit neatly around work, particularly when caring responsibilities span time zones. Our flexible work approach is designed to meet people where they are—providing the support they need to navigate life’s complexities. When we back our people through life’s pivotal moments, we enable them to bring their best to their families, their communities, and their work.”