AG Insurance is committed to hybrid working, which they can achieve thanks to the right technology and inclusivity.
At AG Insurance, one of the largest insurers in Belgium with more than 4,000 employees spread across various locations, hybrid working has now become firmly embedded in the company culture. The combination of a well-thought-out HR approach and solid IT investments proves to be the reason for success.
Uniform Policy
Since the pandemic, AG Insurance has thoroughly redesigned its work structure. “Everyone comes to the office at least two days a week,” says Sylvie Opsommer, responsible for HR and People Development. “One fixed team day and a second day based on projects or preferences. This keeps our teams connected.”
We do everything to work as comfortably as possible.
Sylvie Opsommer, verantwoordelijke HR & People Development bij AG Insurance
These clear agreements are necessary because hybrid working requires more from a manager than just offering the possibility to work from home. Vision, consistency, and especially connection are needed.
Connection as a Common Thread
According to her, connection between colleagues is the biggest point of attention. “You can’t replace that with video calls. That’s why we invest heavily in physical meetings and adapted meeting spaces.” AG’s offices are therefore equipped with technology that allows hybrid meetings to run smoothly, with audio and video functions that actively involve everyone, whether at home or in the office.
Samuel Vandenberghe, responsible for the IT service desk, also emphasizes the importance of this technological support. “We ensure that everyone has the same tools, regardless of their profile. Whether you’re a developer or often on the road, you get tailored equipment: laptops, headsets, extra screens…”
IT is the Driving Force Behind Hybrid Working
The transition to working from home had to happen quickly, and AG was able to do that. “From one day to the next, everyone had to start working from home. Now we’ve evolved to a proactive IT approach,” says Vandenberghe. For example, certain tools detect battery problems before they have an impact. “That’s the power of technology: avoiding inconvenience before it arises.”
“That’s the power of technology: avoiding inconvenience before it arises.”
Samuel Vandenberghe, IT Service Desk Manager at AG Insurance
Meeting rooms got a complete makeover. “We went from stuttering video and poor audio to integrated systems where you can start a meeting with one click,” Vandenberghe explains. This contributes to inclusive meetings: everyone can participate.
The home environment is not forgotten either. Employees receive a work-from-home allowance and can request ergonomic equipment. “During COVID, we expanded that offer,” says Opsommer. “A headset, an extra screen… everything to be able to work comfortably.” In addition, AG regularly conducts well-being surveys to identify potential areas for improvement.
Leadership and Inclusive Culture
A hybrid model also requires more inclusive management. “We train managers to stay close to their teams even at a distance. Regularly checking in, maintaining personal contact: that makes the difference,” says Opsommer. In addition, there are trainings on inclusive meeting culture and efficient collaboration, so that everyone feels heard and involved.
New employees pose a challenge in this regard. “It’s more difficult for them to feel connected. We provide extra guidance for them because you don’t want them to get lost in this hybrid structure.”
Looking to the Future
AG Insurance continues to invest in modern offices where people like to come. “Our slogan is ‘A great place to grow for all’. That’s not just about career, but also about atmosphere, comfort, and collaboration,” says Opsommer.
The hybrid work model at AG Insurance is therefore not just about flexibility, but about balance. The balance between technology and humanity, between efficiency and inclusivity. Its success lies in the continuous attention to improvement, tailored to what employees really need.
Or as Vandenberghe puts it: “Employees work more efficiently in the best circumstances, both in the office and at home.”