CIMB launches future of work centre, targets 15% to have digital skills by 2023

Group CEO of CIMB Group, Tengku Datuk Seri Zafrul Aziz said:

KUALA LUMPUR: CIMB Group Holdings Bhd launched its Future of Work Centre (FOWC) to prepare its employees for a highly digitalised environment as it targets to have at least 15% of them equipped with digital skills by 2023.

FOWC will equip CIMB’s workforce with essential skills and opportunities to apply them directly, in preparation for a future that will see them work alongside technology such as AI, robotics and data analytics, the banking group said on Sunday. 

FOWC is the platform to enable its workforce who have been upskilled/reskilled into their new roles in order for them to fully reap the benefits of their training. 

This follows an earlier announcement on Forward23, CIMB’s five-year transformation plan which also includes the group’s RM2bil investment in technology and data infrastructure. 

Group CEO of CIMB Group, Tengku Datuk Seri Zafrul Aziz said: “CIMB’s Forward23 goal to future-proof the Group requires a strong digital workforce and high operational agility. Our people – our most valuable asset – are key to achieving that goal. 

“Future of Work Centre is part of CIMB’s RM75mil investment to equip them with the skills to support CIMB’s effort in reaping opportunities in a data-driven, tech-enabled world. By 2023, our aim is to have at least 15% of our workforce equipped with digital skills.” 

The initiative started in May 2018 with training by the 3D (Data, Digital, Disruption) Academy. 

Modules offered under the academy are tailored to cater to various competencies, from zero knowledge of the digital world to certification level, and offered in region’s local languages. To date more than 15,000 employees across the region have benefited from these trainings. 

CIMB said leadership in the digital world requires skills such as empathy, collaboration and agility to successfully navigate new business models, and unconventional modes of employment.

To supplement the technical training offered by the 3D Academy, existing culture and high potential employee leadership programmes at all levels have also been fine tuned to align 
with future demands. It now includes digital work experience within and outside the group, as well as networking opportunities with business leaders outside the banking industry. 

Employees who have undergone classroom training will be able to apply their new skills and be mobilised into new roles through various programmes and initiatives under Forward 23.

In addition to existing mobility policies, employees will also have the opportunity to participate in “internal internships”. 

These internal internships provide employees a safe environment for them to “explore”, practise their skills and gain confidence in their new roles. 

These will be project-based or temporary placements that may lead to different career options. 

To supplement internal opportunities, CIMB’s FOWC will also seek external placements that will provide its employees with exposure beyond banking. 

As such, employees could have a taste of, appreciate and consider different career options. The intention is to encourage people to explore new opportunities and be more open when charting their career paths. 

FOWC supports the sustainability of CIMB Group’s business and enables its people to weather changes in the age of disruption with transferable skills that will remain with them.