A JPMorgan Chase executive has called for increased effort from employees, just days after CEO Jamie Dimon dismissed resistance to the bank’s five-day return-to-office policy. Rohan Amin, the chief product officer of the Chase consumer business, emphasized the need for more hustle and determination in a memo sent to over 25,000 employees. Amin highlighted examples where internal challenges, such as low engagement on an AI feedback request and bureaucratic hurdles, have hindered progress.
The memo reflects ongoing tensions between the bank’s push for an in-office culture and employees who point to strong performance during periods of flexible work arrangements. While some employees expressed dissatisfaction with Amin’s critique, others reportedly provided constructive feedback in response to the memo.
In a separate statement, Dimon acknowledged respecting employees who prefer not to work in the office full-time but maintained that the current policy benefits clients and the company. He noted that 10% of the bank’s roles are performed remotely and emphasized that remote work is acceptable only when it aligns with operational needs.
Meanwhile, some employees have sought guidance from the Communications Workers of America regarding unionization, a rare move in the U.S. financial sector. This effort has garnered 1,200 signatures, according to Dimon. During a staff meeting earlier this month, Dimon reportedly dismissed concerns about the return-to-office policy, advising employees not to waste time on petitions. He later admitted on CNBC that swearing during town hall meetings was inappropriate.
— news from CNBC