THE ROLE OF “HEAD OF REMOTE”

Remote work has become the norm for many companies, and with it, a new job function has emerged – the Head of Remote. This role is responsible for ensuring the successful implementation of remote work practices, and it has become increasingly important as companies embrace hybrid and remote work models.

“An absolutely key role in every modern organisation. It’s obvious that the “office culture” is dead. The expectations of most employees today does not revolve around fancy office spaces, but the flexibility to chose where (and when) they work. Work is no longer a place, even if the more backward managers still fail to recognize this fact.

 

A head of remote can clearly define policies related to various forms of remote work, make sure the employees and candidates are aware of them, constantly improve them as per changing market expectations and – most importantly – work with the decision makers to overcome their obsolete views and grow into modern managers!” – Miro Milewski, Senior Business/System Analyst

What is a Head of Remote?

A Head of Remote is a relatively new role emerging with the change in where we work. Companies are adopting it because they recognize the need for a deliberate strategy to address the flexible-first transition. 

The Head of Remote can define policies related to various forms of remote work, ensure that employees and candidates are aware of them, and improve them according to changing market expectations. The Head of Remote is the organization’s voice to its members and the members’ voice to the organization.

The Head of Remote is not merely a title, but a strategic role that sets the stage for the behavioral and cultural shifts necessary to embrace new working models. Their decisions and actions have a profound impact on the organization’s remote work culture. 

“Overall, the emotional support provided by the Head of Remote should aim to help employees feel valued and supported as they adapt to the new way of working. A pretty classic change management process. – Michael Fraidenburg, owner The Cooperation Company

Responsibilities of the Head of Remote

The specific responsibilities of the Head of Remote will vary depending on the company, but some common areas of responsibility include:

• Develop and document remote work policies: This helps establish clear guidelines and expectations for remote employees and ensures consistency across the organization.
• Knowledge management: Consolidating frequently asked questions (FAQs) and creating a system for team members to find information easily. This helps streamline communication and information sharing in a remote work environment.
• Encourage connection between team members: Building camaraderie and community doesn’t happen accidentally. The Head of Remote creates team-building opportunities, celebrates birthdays/milestones, and encourages team members to ask questions publicly to promote connection and collaboration.
• Promote best practices: Encourage teams to create agreements and set sustainable work-life boundaries. This includes promoting healthy work habits, setting clear expectations, and creating a positive remote work culture.
• Create training opportunities: Continuous learning and development are essential for all teams. The Head of Remote identifies and provides training opportunities for team members to enhance their skills and stay updated with relevant knowledge.
• Onboard and offboard support: Ensuring remote employees have the tools and apps to perform their jobs effectively.
• Set up regular feedback loops: The Head of Remote schedules regular company retrospectives, town halls, and surveys to gather feedback from remote employees and address their needs and concerns.
• Provide emotional support: For staff who are reluctant or insecure about the transition to remote, the Head of Remote might listen to the employee’s concerns, acknowledge their feelings and provide reassurance that their worries and uncertainties are valid; that the organization is committed to supporting them through the transition. For more information and support, contact Michael at The Cooperation Company.
• Facilitate communication between employees, managers, and other stakeholders: Ensure that everyone feels connected and supported.  For more information and support, contact Michael at The Cooperation Company.

Desired Skills for the Head of Remote

To excel in the role of Head of Remote, specific skills are essential, including:

• Written and verbal communication: Remote work relies on effective communication. The Head of Remote must have excellent written and verbal communication skills to facilitate clear and efficient communication across the organization.
• Interpersonal: Building relationships, team camaraderie, and promoting collaboration are critical aspects of the Head of Remote role, and excellent interpersonal skills are necessary to establish trust and rapport with remote team members.
• Analytical: The Head of Remote needs to analyze data, feedback, and performance metrics to continuously improve remote work practices and address possible challenges or issues.
• Time management: Remote work requires strong time management skills to prioritize tasks, manage deadlines, and ensure productivity in a virtual environment.
• Training and presentation: Providing training and conducting presentations to remote employees require practical training and presentation skills to deliver information clearly.
• Professional qualifications in a relevant discipline: Depending on the industry or field, professional qualifications in a relevant discipline, such as human resources, organizational development, or remote work management, can benefit the organization.

Other resources for Head of Remote

• The Connected Hybrid Leader workshop to help you confidently lead in the virtual environment.
• Head of Remote description by GitLab
• Head of Remote Resources by Tyler Sellhorn
• Facilitation and conflict management services by Michael Fraidenburg