JP Morgan mandates full-time office return amid desk shortages

JP Morgan is facing significant challenges as it mandates a full-time return to the office for its 22,000 UK employees, particularly in London, where it lacks sufficient desk space for 14,000 staff members at its Canary Wharf headquarters. Despite a company-wide directive issued in January, the office is only able to accommodate about 60% of its workforce, prompting logistical issues as employees are expected to return floor by floor starting in March. The move to end hybrid work has sparked backlash, with over 1,000 employees signing a petition advocating for a return to flexible working arrangements, citing concerns over increased workplace toxicity and reduced flexibility. CEO Jamie Dimon has publicly dismissed employee concerns, suggesting that those unhappy with the policy should consider leaving the company. The Glasgow office, which opened last year, is set to be the first location to fully implement the five-day workweek, as JP Morgan aims to foster collaboration through in-person attendance. While the shift has provoked internal tensions, the bank recently reported record profits, indicating a robust financial position amid strategic operational changes.