IBM asks its managers working remotely to “move near an office or leave the company”

IBM has issued an ultimatum, “move near an office or leave the company”, to its managers who are still working remotely. It is reported that on January 16, the company issued a memo where it is mentioned that all US managers must immediately report to an office or client location at least three days a week "regardless of current work location status".

Badge-in data will be used to "assess individual presence" and shared with managers and human resources, Senior Vice President John Granger wrote in the note.  

Except employees with exceptions such as medical issues or military service, others working remotely must relocate near an IBM office by the start of August, according to the memo.

Managers who disagree to relocate and are unable to secure a role that’s approved to be remote have been asked to “separate from IBM.”

“IBM is focused on providing a work environment that balances flexibility with the face-to-face interactions that make us more productive, innovative and better able to serve our clients,” a company spokesperson said. “Consistent with that approach, we’re requiring executives and people managers in the United States to be in the office at least three days per week.”