18 months on, what difference has it made?
Our SMART Benefits were introduced in September 2023, to support a healthier, more flexible approach to working. Employees may use Flexible SMART Working to design suitable working arrangements that suit their lifestyle and way of working — including (but not limited to) a 4-day week, flexi-time, expanded work weeks, and remote working.
Eighteen months in, we’re speaking to people across the business to reflect on what’s changed — and where it’s made a difference.
We caught up with Matheus Magenta, Software Developer, to find out how flexible working has supported him.
Q: What does your current working pattern look like?
I work 35 hours a week, fully remote — usually from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. However, I sometimes work beyond those hours or during weekends when my mental model is more settled. The flexibility also means I can spend weeks working from my homeland, Brazil, so I can be closer to my family without compromising productivity or using all my annual leave at once.
Q: How does this compare to how you worked in previous roles or companies?
I spent over a decade working more than 14 hours a day in person, plus handling calls, emails, and messages from home.
Q: Can you share any examples of how flexible working has helped you manage personal responsibilities or reduce stress?
For the first time in my life as a parent, I’m able to do the school run, attend my daughter’s appointments at school or the GP, support her with homework, and even be home during Christmas and New Year’s Eve. I can also eat healthier meals and take breaks to rest or go for a walk, for example.
Q: How has it affected your productivity or focus during working hours?
As a colleague of mine put it well, this flexibility allows me to work when my productivity is at its peak, rather than sitting in front of the computer for hours with limited focus just to meet a 9–5 schedule.
Q: Have you noticed any changes in your motivation, energy levels, or job satisfaction?
Absolutely. As I mentioned, switching to flexible working has allowed me to be closer to my family and maintain a healthier lifestyle.
Q: How would you describe the culture at KaarbonTech when it comes to trust and flexibility?
To me, it’s a healthy culture built on the premise — something I learned from day one — that everyone is an adult who understands their responsibilities and values a collaborative and respectful workplace.
“Flexibility has allowed me to be more present — both at work and with my family. Being trusted to manage my time means I can focus when I’m at my best, without compromising on what matters outside of work.”
– Matheus Magenta