The professional services firm revealed the network, which is chiefly aimed at new applicants but also available to existing staff, would enable workers to choose a working pattern that works for them – be it shorter hours or only working for a few months a year. 

People will apply to PwC’s Flexible Talent Network based on the skills they have and the working pattern that best works for them, rather than for specific roles, with PwC matching people in the network with relevant projects.

The firm also revealed 2,000 people have already registered for the network in its first two weeks.

Explaining the reasoning behind the launch, PwC said it was hoping to attract more diverse talent who might previously have dismissed the firm as an option.

Laura Hinton, chief people officer at PwC, added: “People assume that to work at a big firm they need to follow traditional working patterns – we want to make it clear that this isn’t the case. In order to recruit the best people, we recognise that we need to offer greater flexibility, different working options and a route back in for those looking to restart their careers.

“We already encourage everyday flexibility for our people in how and where they work, but our Flexible Talent Network takes flexible working to a new level, allowing people to choose exactly how they want to work throughout the year. People in the network will get to spend their year their way, whether it’s because of caring commitments, entrepreneurs supplementing their income, people who want to travel or simply not work all of the year.

“Offering flexibility in how people work throughout the year is not only good for workers, but also for business, the economy and ultimately society. We’re likely to see a rise in people transitioning in and out of work throughout their careers and those organisations who responsibly support their people to do this will ultimately gain a competitive advantage.”

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