Flex@X Program

Flex@X is only available to administrative (NSGEU) and managerial and professional employees.

About Flex@X

StFX is committed to providing a safe, inclusive workplace environment for all employees. Where appropriate, this can include opportunities for flexible scheduling and hybrid work arrangements. Flex@X and the Flexible Work Policy govern the University’s flexible work arrangement programs.

Flex@X provides eligible employees the opportunity to request a flexible work arrangement while maintaining the necessary level of productivity, engagement and performance required by the University. Eligibility is limited to administrative (NSGEU) and managerial and professional employees at this time.

The availability of Flex@X options will vary based on the operational and service needs of each department. The Flexible Work Policy was written to capture a wide variety of flexible work arrangements. Some positions will not be eligible for Flex@X and some may have limited options.

Guiding Principles

The University is, first and foremost, committed to providing an exceptional in-person, residential learning environment for students. Beyond this, Flex@X is governed by the following principles:

1. Operational and Service Needs: Arrangements are dependent on the needs of the department and must not compromise operational effectiveness or service delivery. Impact on other departments and University-wide operational effectiveness is also considered.
2. Productivity and Effectiveness: Arrangements are dependent on the nature of the work and the ability for the work to be performed productively and effectively to the same level that would be expected if there was no Flexible Work arrangement.
3. On-Campus Presence: Key to a vibrant campus community, on-campus presence is a requirement for most roles.
4. Transparency: Decisions must be made in a transparent manner.
5. Employee Preference: Employee preferences are considered when developing and approving any Flex@X arrangement.
6. Regular Review: Arrangements are reviewed regularly to ensure effectiveness. 

Flex@X Options

The availability of Flex@X options will vary based on the operational and service needs of each department. The Flexible Work Policy was written to capture a wide variety of flexible work arrangements. Some positions will not be eligible for Flex@X and some may have limited options.

Flex@X has three Flexible Work Arrangement options:

Flex@X arrangements are not permanent. They will include a start date, end date, regular review dates and termination provisions. Flex@X agreements need to be reviewed prior to their end date and extensions will need to be approved.  Arrangements will generally last a maximum of two (2) years before review.

Application Process

Managers and supervisors will review department operations and employee responsibilities. As part of this process, they will engage with their employees to get feedback and gauge interest in Flex@X. 

The application process for Flex@X is as follows:

1. The employee fills out the Flex@X Application.
2. The manager/supervisor and department head receive the form and evaluate the request against the Flex@X criteria. The decision is recorded on the form and sent to People and Culture.
3. If the request is approved, People and Culture will issue a Flex@X Agreement which will need to be signed by the employee and their manager/supervisor.

Application forms for Flex@X will be posted in February 2025.

Criteria

In making the decision to approve a Flexible Work Arrangement, the following will be considered: 

1. Operational and service needs and safety requirements can be effectively and efficiently maintained (student service needs will be prioritized in assessing and approving regular Arrangements).
2. Job requirements can be productively and effectively performed remotely to the needed quality standards.
3. If Hybrid or Remote, the work does not require close supervision and the duties can be performed with a degree of independence from the Employee’s supervisor/manager and co-workers.
4. The Arrangement will not unduly hinder or delay on the work of other Employees or negatively impact the delivery of services and supports to students and community members. 
5. If Hybrid or Remote, the Employee has a suitable remote workspace (e.g. privacy, free from distractions, ergonomic workstation set-up) and reliable internet access to allow for needed connectivity.
6. The Employee does not have any performance concerns or unresolved workplace issues that would inhibit the success of a Flexible Work Arrangement.

More Information

For more information, visit:

• Flexible Work Policy
• Flex@X Program Guide
• Flex@X Frequently Asked Questions for Eligible Employees
• Flex@X Terms and Conditions
• Flex@X Hybrid Work Self Assessment
• Working Remotely (IT Services)

Employees can also contact People and Culture.