Version: 2        Creation date: 10 April 2021        Last review date: 2 November 2023

1. Purpose and Scope

Near East University (NEU) is committed to fostering a flexible and inclusive work environment that accommodates the diverse needs of its staff while ensuring the University's operational efficiency and service quality. This Flexible Working Policy outlines the guidelines and procedures for requesting and implementing flexible work arrangements.

2. Definitions

2.1. Flexible Working: Flexible working refers to a range of work arrangements that allow employees to deviate from the standard working hours, location, or pattern, while still meeting their job requirements.

2.2. Remote Working: Remote working involves working from a location other than the University campus, typically from home or another remote site.

3. Eligibility

All NEU employees, including academic and administrative staff, are eligible to request flexible working arrangements in accordance with this policy.

4. Types of Flexible Working

4.1. Adjustment of Working Hours: Employees may request adjustments to their daily working hours to better align with personal needs, such as caring for dependents or commuting outside of peak hours.

4.2. Remote Working: Remote working enables employees to perform their duties from a location outside the University campus, subject to operational requirements and an agreement with their supervisor.

5. Requesting Flexible Working

5.1. Employees interested in a flexible working arrangement must submit a formal request to their immediate supervisor (administrative staff) or head of department (academic staff). The request should include details such as the type of flexibility needed, proposed schedules, and reasons for the request.

5.2. Supervisors or head of departments (HODs) are responsible for considering each request on its individual merits, ensuring that operational needs are met, and maintaining open communication with employees throughout the process.

6. Approval Process

6.1. Requests for flexible working will be evaluated within 10 days of submission. Approval or denial will be communicated in writing to the employee by their supervisor or HOD.

6.2. In cases of denial, the supervisor or HOD must provide a clear rationale for the decision, and employees may request a reconsideration if they believe their circumstances warrant it.

7. Remote Working Guidelines

7.1. Employees engaged in remote working are responsible for maintaining a secure and appropriate work environment, adhering to University policies, and ensuring the confidentiality of University information.

7.2. Regular communication between remote employees and their on-campus counterparts is crucial to maintain teamwork and collaboration.

8. Performance and Evaluation

Flexible work arrangements are subject to ongoing review and evaluation. Employees must meet their performance objectives, and supervisors or HODs have the authority to terminate or adjust flexible working arrangements if necessary.

9. Environmental Awareness

NEU recognizes that remote working contributes to environmental benefits by reducing the need for employee commuting and the associated carbon emissions. We encourage our staff to consider the environmental impact and support our commitment to reduce our carbon footprint.

This policy is an integral part of NEU's commitment to a flexible, inclusive, and sustainable work environment.