The quest for a perfect hybrid working: A case study of Mars Wrigley Poland

Abstract

BACKGROUND: Although hybrid work has been a topic of research for many years, the pandemic has introduced a new context that remains relatively unexplored. OBJECTIVE: This paper aims to define hybrid working as a novel flexible working arrangement and investigate the factors that influence its effective implementation within organisations. METHODS: To achieve this research objective, we conducted a single case study focusing on Mars Wrigley Poland. The study involved interviews with the People & Organization Director of the company and an analysis of internal documents developed during the implementation of hybrid working. RESULTS: Our findings show that hybrid working is a team-managed flexible working arrangement, and it is within the teams that the specifics of the hybrid work should be determined and defined. Additionally, the findings reveal that hybrid working is not a one-size-fits-all model. It requires a holistic approach to establish a clear strategy that encompasses various factors such as culture, technology, and employee experience. Of particular importance is the need to ensure connection in the broader sense and ongoing support to employees. CONCLUSIONS: Managers can significantly improve the success rate of hybrid working by gaining insight into the key factors that facilitate the implementation of the hybrid model.