KUALA LUMPUR (April 28): CIMB Group Holdings Bhd, which has launched its Future of Work Centre (FOWC) to equip its workforce with essential digital skills to future-proof the group, aims to have at least 15% of its workforce to be digital savvy by the year 2023.

The FOWC is a platform that will facilitate the mobilisation of employeees who have been upskilled or reskilled into their new roles, in order for them to fully reap the benfits of their training, CIMB said in a statement today. 

Its launch came on the heels of the group's earlier announcement of its Forward23 transformation plan, which includes RM2 billion investment in technology and data infrastructure.

"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 RM75-million investment to equip them with the skills to support CIMB’s effort in reaping opportunities in a data-driven, tech-enabled world," said CIMB group chief executive officer, Tengku Datuk Seri Zafrul Aziz.

The FOWC is part of the group's efforts to digitally empower its people, an initiative that started in May 2018, with training by the 3D (Data, Digital, Disruption) Academy, that caters to various competencies. To date more than 15,000 employees across the region have benefited from the trainings.

Meanwhile, existing culture and high potential employee leadership programmes at all levels have been fine-tuned to include digital work experience within and outside the group -- as well as networking opportunities with business leaders outside the banking industry -- to align with future demands. 

"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 Forward23. In addition to existing mobility policies, employees will also have the opportunity to participate in ‘internal internships’," CIMB's statement read. 

These internships will provide employees a safe environment to “explore”, practise their skills and gain confidence in their new roles via 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," CIMB added.