Global Workforce Podcast

Crossing borders, balancing books_ the finance leader's guide to international growth

omnipres.podcast@gmail.com (Omnipresent) — Mon, 31 Mar 2025 14:03:00 -0400

What does it take for finance teams to support international growth? In this episode of the Global Workforce Podcast, Caleigh is joined by Caitlin Browner (Xero) and Katherine Kellett (Omnipresent) to explore the financial side of global expansion. From tax compliance and entity structures to multi-currency banking and hiring finance talent across borders, this conversation breaks down the real-world challenges finance leaders face—and how to overcome them. Whether you're scaling into new markets or managing a distributed team, this episode offers practical insights for keeping the books balanced as your business crosses borders.

Building an effective global benefits strategy with Mike Kelly of Baldwin Group

omnipres.podcast@gmail.com (Omnipresent) — Wed, 12 Mar 2025 06:00:00 -0400

Expanding internationally holds hidden risks, particularly in compliance, employee benefits and operating models. In this episode, Mike Kelly, senior partner and risk advisor at The Baldwin Group, discusses the challenges companies face when hiring abroad and how EOR services can be best utilised to mitigate potential risks. He highlights the importance of understanding local labour laws, pension obligations and why global policies may not always be the best choice.

Key Takeaways:

(02:26) The US approach to benefits differs vastly from the rest of the world.

(03:55) Equity in benefits does not mean offering the same plan in every country.

(05:34) Many companies underestimate the complexity of international pensions.

(08:31) Global policies are easy but can be expensive and non-compliant.

(11:31) Most companies expand internationally without an operating model.

(15:32) EORs provide compliance support but can still expose companies to risk.

(19:03) Employers are still liable for compliance failures, even when using an EOR.

(28:44) Remote work is now a fundamental employee benefit, not just a perk.

(34:19) A thoughtful global expansion strategy is key to long-term success.

Resources Mentioned:

Mike Kelly -

https://www.linkedin.com/in/mikeckelly/

The Baldwin Group LinkedIn -

https://www.linkedin.com/company/thebaldwingroup/

The Baldwin Group Website -

https://baldwin.com/

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The secrets of cross-border M&A with Michele Museyri of HSP Group

omnipres.podcast@gmail.com (Omnipresent) — Mon, 24 Feb 2025 06:58:00 -0500

In this episode, Michele Museyri, Director of M&A and Private Equity at HSP Group, shares strategies for overcoming the challenges of international carve-outs and acquisitions. She explains common pitfalls, from failing to assess the impact of local laws on expansion to overlooking employee benefits during transitions. Michele also highlights the benefits and limitations of EOR in specific markets, reinforcing the need for thorough research and expertise.

Key Takeaways:

(02:19) M&A can be an intentional growth strategy or an unexpected global expansion.

(04:11) EOR is a valuable tool for global expansion.

(05:16) In some countries, EOR is only a temporary solution, as permanent establishment follows different regulations.

(09:22) Tight deal timelines make early planning and research critical for M&A and compliance success.

(11:11) Employee benefits are one of the most overlooked yet essential factors in M&A.

(13:23) Carve-outs often involve employee benefit changes and navigating collective agreements.

(18:00) Sellers may withhold key information, making due diligence even more challenging.

(20:48) Expecting executives to understand every country’s employment laws is unrealistic.

(24:18) Every country has its own carve-out laws, and local regulations can significantly impact operations.

(34:16) Experts in the industry in the country you are expanding to can help with early paperwork or parallel processes.

(39:00) The outlook for 2025 is optimistic, with growth expected in AI, data centres and life sciences.

Resources Mentioned:

Michele Museyri -

https://www.linkedin.com/in/michele-museyri/

HSP Group LinkedIn -

https://www.linkedin.com/company/hsp-group-inc/

HSP Group | Website -

https://hsp.com/

Employer of record (EOR) solutions -

https://www.omnipresent.com/products/eor

Works councils and collective bargaining agreements -

https://www.jstor.org/stable/44862125

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How to manage your IT assets in an era of global teams with Carlos Escutia of GroWrk

omnipres.podcast@gmail.com (Omnipresent) — Wed, 19 Feb 2025 08:42:00 -0500

Carlos Escutia, Founder and CEO of GroWrk, explores how distributed teams reshape IT security, hardware management and sustainability. He explains the environmental impact of laptops and other hardware, the hidden costs of not maximising devices’ lifespans and the security threats posed by a global workforce. Carlos shares how GroWrk helps companies tackle these challenges and how its AI technology will monitor and track devices’ security, lifespan and environmental impact.

Key Takeaways:

(01:26) GroWrk was created as a response to a problem.

(06:05) Security is the biggest challenge for hybrid teams.

(07:53) Extending device lifespans saves money and reduces waste.

(13:07) IT assets are a significant source of CO2 emissions.

(15:26) Legal risks in some jurisdictions from improper device disposal.

(20:08) Simplifying global IT logistics for workforces of hundreds or thousands of people.

(27:18) Predictive maintenance optimises IT operations and reduces costs and environmental impact.

(31:10) Understanding what happens to devices and repurposing them for societal and environmental impact.

(39:23) AI predictive management of global IT provides real-time data on security, device lifespan and sustainability.

(42:20) Responsible IT practices save costs and reduce risks.

Resources Mentioned:

Carlos Escutia -

https://www.linkedin.com/in/carlosescutia/

“How People Learn” by Nick Shackleton-Jones -

https://www.koganpage.com/hr-learning-development/how-people-learn-9781398607194

GroWrk | LinkedIn -

https://www.linkedin.com/company/growrk/

GroWrk | Website -

https://growrk.com/

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HR shared services: Why global teams need integrated HR solutions with Kshitiz Sachan of Keka HR

omnipres.podcast@gmail.com (Omnipresent) — Wed, 05 Feb 2025 08:31:44 -0500

Kshitiz Sachan, Leadership Coach at Keka HR, explores technology, leadership models and the integration of global workforces. He discusses breaking free from traditional command-based leadership models to embrace purpose-driven collaboration. Kshitiz shares how organisations can overcome silos, increase visibility and foster alignment across global teams. Using practical examples, he highlights the role of real-time feedback, structured goal-setting and leadership in building trust and driving performance.

Key Takeaways:

(01:41) The benefits of migrating from traditional leadership models to trust and purpose-driven leadership.

(02:36) Aligning workers’ goals with organisational vision fosters success.

(05:34) Performance management solves silos and inefficiencies.

(09:47) “If you can’t measure it, you can’t improve it.”

(10:54) Real-time feedback strengthens organisational alignment.

(18:45) Digital tools create visibility and a unified workforce beyond borders.

(23:28) Leadership today is about developing passion in people.

(25:30) Core values are crucial to sustainable performance.

(27:50) The AI revolution will bring its own set of new jobs.

Resources Mentioned:

“Turn the Ship Around” by L. David Marquet

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The changing face of UAE employment laws with Emily Aryeetey of Stephenson Harwood LLP

omnipres.podcast@gmail.com (Omnipresent) — Wed, 22 Jan 2025 06:00:04 -0500

Navigating the complexities and fluctuations of employment law in the UAE can be daunting for businesses entering the region. In this episode, Emily Aryeetey, Partner at Stephenson Harwood LLP, introduces the unique legal frameworks and cultural dynamics shaping the UAE's employment landscape. She explains how the UAE is divided into different zones, each with its own labour laws, courts and policies. She also talks about some of the most recent shifts in labour policies. Emily provides practical advice for both employers and employees looking to work in this region.

Key Takeaways:

(03:33) The UAE has distinct employment rules for mainland and free zones, such as DIFC and ADGM.

(04:31) Visa processes are integral to recruitment and onboarding in the UAE.

(05:33) Emiratisation mandates private sector companies to hire UAE nationals.

(09:47) The UAE’s focus on free zones offers businesses operational flexibility.

(13:49) Cross-border employment creates compliance challenges with dual jurisdictions.

(19:48) End-of-service gratuity schemes differ between DIFC and mainland UAE.

(26:29) Changes to UAE labour law provide employers with more flexibility in terminations.

(35:10) Practical advice for HR professionals moving to the region.

(44:18) Partnering with local experts ensures compliance and smooth business operations.

Resources Mentioned:

Emily Aryeetey -

https://www.linkedin.com/in/emilyaryeetey

Stephenson Harwood -

https://www.shlegal.com

DIFC -

https://www.difc.ae

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Hiring in Spain: The essential guide for global employers with Juan Bonilla of Cuatrecasas

omnipres.podcast@gmail.com (Omnipresent) — Wed, 11 Dec 2024 06:43:01 -0500

In this episode, Juan Bonilla, Partner, Attorney at Law at Cuatrecasas, explains the nuances of Spanish labour law and compliance essentials for international employers. He offers practical guidance for businesses operating or expanding in Spain regarding terminations, collective agreements and employer of record services. From severance costs to employee representation and the impact of post-termination covenants, Juan outlines critical considerations that can support a company’s smooth entry into the Spanish market.

Key Takeaways:

(02:22) Spain’s appeal for shared service centers and remote work.

(03:16) Employee cost and quality of life balance in Spain.

(07:03) Termination in Spain requires severance pay.

(10:24) The concept of discretionary bonuses in Spain.

(15:45) The advantages and disadvantages of independent contractors in Spain.

(19:21) Spanish legislation prohibits employee leasing.

(25:50) Compulsory collective agreements provide basic protections.

(33:39) South America is a key investment region for Spanish companies.

(39:21) Automatic transfer of employment when a business is acquired by another company.

(00:43:58) Importance of tracking employee locations for compliance.

Resources Mentioned:

Juan Bonilla -

https://www.linkedin.com/in/juan-bonilla-3140507/

Cuatrecasas | LinkedIn -

https://www.linkedin.com/company/cuatrecasas/

International Bar Association (IBA) -

https://www.ibanet.org/

Global Equity Organization (GEO) -

https://www.globalequity.org/

Cuatrecasas | Website -

https://www.cuatrecasas.com/es/spain/

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An expert’s guide to international IPO and M&A regulations with Michael J. Blankenship of Winston & Strawn

omnipres.podcast@gmail.com (Omnipresent) — Tue, 26 Nov 2024 10:21:39 -0500

Michael J. Blankenship, Office Managing Partner and Co-Chair of the Capital Markets Group at Winston & Strawn LLP, discusses essential regulatory considerations and strategies for navigating international IPOs and M&A transactions. With extensive experience across the energy, healthcare and technology sectors, Michael covers the intricacies of regulatory environments in different countries, the impact of fluctuations in the tech sector and how the US elections may shape the IPO landscape.

Key Takeaways:

(04:59) Helping emerging companies reduce IPO regulatory burdens.

(06:24) Differences in regulatory standards between the US and Europe.

(08:10) Anticipated post-election increase in US transactions.

(09:51) Inverse relationship between technology and energy sectors.

(12:13) Capital-intensive needs in the healthcare sector.

(15:24) Overlooked regulatory consent pitfalls in healthcare.

(20:37) The importance of tailored diligence lists and data rooms.

(23:21) Compliance differences in IPOs versus M&A processes.

(28:46) Employee classification diligence in global transactions.

Resources Mentioned:

Michael J. Blankenship -

https://www.linkedin.com/in/mikeblankenship/

Winston & Strawn LLP | LinkedIn -

https://www.linkedin.com/company/winston-&-strawn-llp/

Winston & Strawn -

https://www.winston.com

The JOBS Act -

https://www.sec.gov/rules-regulations/jumpstart-our-business-startups-jobs-act

LSE (London Stock Exchange) -

https://www.londonstockexchange.com/

NYSE Euronext -

https://www.euronext.com/en

SEC (US Securities and Exchange Commission) -

https://www.sec.gov/

FINRA (Financial Industry Regulatory Authority) -

https://www.finra.org/

FDA (Food and Drug Administration) -

https://www.fda.gov/

IRA (Inflation Reduction Act) -

https://home.treasury.gov/policy-issues/inflation-reduction-act

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Navigating global talent shortages with James Bricknell of Bradford Jacobs

omnipres.podcast@gmail.com (Omnipresent) — Fri, 15 Nov 2024 06:05:00 -0500

In this episode, James Bricknell, Head of Consulting - Expansion and Client Development of Bradford Jacobs, examines the primary considerations for successful international expansion. Companies need precise data on skills availability, talent costs, language and cultural differences and local laws to ensure affordable and effective hiring. He explores how varying local costs, taxes and contributions can blow up budgets. James also expands on the challenges of retaining international talent and emphasises the need to consider cultural and linguistic nuances.

Key Takeaways:

(01:50) Core drivers for international growth are cost, skills and market entry.

(03:13) Seventy per cent of employees prefer remote or hybrid work.

(05:06) Understanding local costs for a successful international expansion.

(08:38) Cultural diversity influences international decisions.

(14:04) Remote adaptability expands talent options.

(17:20) US firms face high costs for tech talent domestically.

(26:06) Local legislation varies greatly and must be understood.

(30:57) Local partners provide essential cultural insight.

(34:39) Market expansion should be data-driven and strategic.

(39:10) Understanding employer contributions in local markets to budget correctly.

Resources Mentioned:

James Bricknell -

https://www.linkedin.com/in/jamesbricknell/

Bradford Jacobs | LinkedIn -

https://www.linkedin.com/company/bradford-jacobs/

Bradford Jacobs | Website -

https://bradfordjacobs.com/

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How to navigate your company to IPO with Michael Jacobs and Dylan Doran Kennett of Herbert Smith Freehills

omnipres.podcast@gmail.com (Omnipresent) — Thu, 31 Oct 2024 14:28:23 -0400

Understanding capital markets and listing reforms is essential for businesses aiming for growth. In this episode, Michael Jacobs, Partner at Herbert Smith Freehills, and Dylan Doran Kennett, Venture and Growth Capital specialist, and partner at the same company, share their expertise on IPOs, M&A transactions and the impact of UK listing reforms. They discuss the contradictions between fast growth and compliance and the benefits of upholding and creating a unified work culture during IPOs and mergers.

Key Takeaways:

(03:00) The impact of UK reforms on capital markets.

(05:22) Reforms have eliminated eligibility requirements for IPOs.

(08:43) UK pension funds have massively de-equitised.

(14:01) Dual-class share structures and their benefits for founders.

(15:00) Examples of financial systems designed to channel money.

(21:06) The role of dual-track IPOs in giving companies flexibility.

(28:15) M&A as a growth strategy for IPO candidates.

(35:30) Balancing aggressive growth and structural compliance in IPO preparation.

(45:39) The challenges of IPO due diligence and preparation.

(53:22) Understanding the difference between listing in London and the US.

Resources Mentioned:

Michael Jacobs -

https://www.linkedin.com/in/michael-a-jacobs/

Herbert Smith Freehills -

https://www.linkedin.com/company/herbert-smith-freehills/

New Financial -

https://www.newfinancial.org/

UK’s IPO Reforms -

https://www.fca.org.uk/news/press-releases/fca-overhauls-listing-rules-boost-growth-and-innovation-uk-stock-markets

FTSE 100 -

https://www.londonstockexchange.com/indices/ftse-100

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Navigating UK employment law with Nicola Ihnatowicz of Trowers & Hamlins

omnipres.podcast@gmail.com (Omnipresent) — Mon, 21 Oct 2024 12:15:09 -0400

Disclaimer : This episode was recorded soon after the recent UK general election so some references to UK employment legislation may now be slightly out of date.

In the age of globalised investments and workforces, creating a unified company culture and following each country’s regulations can be challenging.

In this episode, Nicola Ihnatowicz, Employment Law Partner at Trowers & Hamlins, discusses the evolution of UK employment law and its implications for global businesses. She explores the complexities of mergers and acquisitions, especially with TUPE regulations, and how businesses can effectively harmonise global workforces. Nicola emphasises the importance of building sustainable workforces that cater to generational shifts and evolving employee expectations.

Key Takeaways:

(02:17) The UK is a strategic access point for global businesses.

(04:28) Unfair dismissal becomes a day-one right in new reforms.

(05:29) Understanding the regulatory landscape when hiring in the UK is a must.

(06:43) Critical questions global businesses hiring in the UK should ask.

(10:48) A sustainable workforce means well-being and a talent pipeline.

(11:27) Four generations in the workforce bring different expectations.

(14:15) Global companies must align values and expectations across locations.

(17:03) Legal obligations vary based on how staff are engaged.

(19:21) TUPE surprises non-UK buyers with restrictions on restructuring.

(27:40) Local knowledge is crucial when navigating global hiring challenges.

Resources Mentioned:

Nicola Ihnatowicz - https://www.linkedin.com/in/nicolaihnatowicztrowers/

Trowers & Hamlins LLP - https://www.linkedin.com/company/trowers-&-hamlins-llp/

TUPE - https://www.gov.uk/transfers-takeovers

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Scaling beyond borders: How tomorrow’s entrepreneurs can build truly global companies with Aaron McDaniel and Klaus Børme Wehage of Global Class

omnipres.podcast@gmail.com (Omnipresent) — Tue, 24 Sep 2024 09:44:44 -0400

In an era where businesses are increasingly crossing borders, understanding how to successfully scale globally is essential. In this episode, Aaron McDaniel and Klaus Børme Wehage, both Founding Partners of Global Class, share their insights on global expansion, local adaptation and the importance of mindset in international growth.

Key Takeaways:

(04:22) Assumptions about what works at home may not apply internationally.

(05:11) Cultural mindset and navigating bureaucracy are crucial.

(07:00) Market opportunity doesn’t guarantee success.

(16:08) Structured localization is key to efficient market entry.

(31:13) Autonomy for local teams drives market success.

(34:57) Balance company knowledge with local insights.

(50:26) Hard-coded practices hinder global adaptability.

(56:26) Long-term goals should shape market strategies.

Resources Mentioned:

Aaron McDaniel - https://www.linkedin.com/in/mrbiz/

Klaus Børme Wehage - https://www.linkedin.com/in/globalscalingcoach/

Global Class | LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/globalclasscompany/

Global Class | Website - https://www.globalclass.com

BlaBlaCar Case Study - https://www.blablacar.com

“The Lean Startup” by Eric Ries - https://theleanstartup.com/

10X Innovation Lab - https://10xinnovationlab.com/

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The transatlantic playbook: What US businesses expanding into Europe need to know with David Bates of Taylor Wessing

omnipres.podcast@gmail.com (Omnipresent) — Wed, 04 Sep 2024 11:22:04 -0400

In an era where businesses are increasingly crossing borders, understanding the intricacies of international law and market dynamics is crucial. In this episode, David Bates, Partner at Taylor Wessing, discusses the complexities of expanding into the European market, highlighting key differences in regulations and cultural norms.

Key Takeaways:

(02:17) The European M&A market shows signs of recovery.

(05:36) European employee protections are generally stronger than in the US.

(07:48) Hiring processes in Europe are typically slower than in the US.

(10:00) The EU is advancing digital regulations more comprehensively than the US.

(11:00) GDPR sets a global standard for privacy, influencing global legislation.

(12:18) Europe is not a homogenous market; each country has unique systems.

(14:30) France's "right to switch off" mandates an eleven-hour work break.

(15:49) Cultural differences significantly affect business operations in Europe.

(22:00) Understanding local market differences is crucial for success in Europe.

Resources Mentioned:

David Bates - https://www.linkedin.com/in/dbates2/

Taylor Wessing - https://www.taylorwessing.com

Taylor Wessing | Website - https://www.taylorwessing.com/

GDPR Guidelines - https://gdpr.eu/

European Data Protection Board - https://edpb.europa.eu/

Digital Markets Act - https://commission.europa.eu/strategy-and-policy/priorities-2019-2024/europe-fit-digital-age/digital-markets-act-ensuring-fair-and-open-digital-markets_en

Digital Services Act - https://commission.europa.eu/strategy-and-policy/priorities-2019-2024/europe-fit-digital-age/digital-services-act_en

AI Regulation Updates - https://digital-strategy.ec.europa.eu/en/policies/european-approach-artificial-intelligence

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Cross-border M&A trends with Ali Ramadan of Goodwin

omnipres.podcast@gmail.com (Omnipresent) — Wed, 21 Aug 2024 16:14:15 -0400

Understanding the current landscape of mergers and acquisitions is essential for navigating today's business world. In this episode, Ali Ramadan, Technology & Life Sciences Partner at Goodwin, explores the evolving trends and regulatory challenges impacting M&A activities.

Key Takeaways:

(01:48) 2023 saw buyer caution due to economic uncertainty, with a slow start in 2024.

(02:09) Global M&A deal value in early 2024 reached $1.3 trillion, up 5% from 2023.

(02:45) Mega deals are on the rise, particularly in the technology and energy sectors.

(04:00) Regulatory scrutiny is increasing, causing longer deal closures.

(05:07) Challenging funding environments make tech companies attractive M&A targets.

(07:21) Governments are tightening merger control and investment regulations.

(10:21) Emerging markets like Asia, LATAM and Africa show significant growth potential.

(12:18) ESG compliance is becoming a critical factor in investment and M&A decisions.

(19:29) Dual-track processes in IPO and M&A are more frequent due to market uncertainties.

Resources Mentioned:

Ali Ramadan - https://www.linkedin.com/in/aramadan/

Goodwin | LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/goodwin-law/

Goodwin | Website - https://www.goodwinlaw.com

National Security Investment Act - https://www.legislation.gov.uk/ukpga/2021/25/contents

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How to stay compliant when you’re employing in Italy with Carlo Majer of Littler Italia

omnipres.podcast@gmail.com (Omnipresent) — Mon, 12 Aug 2024 12:17:25 -0400

As businesses cross borders, mastering international employment law is key. Carlo Majer, Partner at Littler Italia, discusses the opportunities and challenges of hiring in Italy.

Key Takeaways:

(02:12) Italy's employment framework is characterized by comprehensive and well-regulated labour laws.

(03:00) Understanding the specificities of the Italian labour market is crucial for businesses.

(04:00) Italy's strategic benefits and supportive investment climate offer substantial potential for business expansion.

(08:47) Failure to comply with Italian labour laws can result in significant financial penalties and reputational risks.

(09:00) Persistent non-compliance can attract increased scrutiny from regulatory authorities.

(10:00) Effective management of employment practices is essential to mitigating risks.

(11:30) The spread of EOR (employer of record) solutions has significantly increased in recent times.

(13:00) Particular attention must be paid to avoid illegal labour intermediation in Italy.

(19:00) Only licenced agencies are legally permitted to provide labour-leasing services in Italy.

Resources Mentioned:

Carlo Majer - https://www.linkedin.com/in/carlo-majer-261320/

Littler Italia - https://www.linkedin.com/company/littler-italy/

Italian Ministry of Labour - https://www.lavoro.gov.it

Legal 500 - https://www.legal500.com

Chambers and Partners - https://chambers.com

Littler - https://www.littler.com

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Tackling global worker classification challenges with Raoul Parekh of Littler

omnipres.podcast@gmail.com (Omnipresent) — Wed, 24 Jul 2024 01:10:00 -0400

In this episode, we’re joined by Raoul Parekh, Partner in the London office of Littler, the largest global employment law firm.

Together, we delve into the complexities of worker classification and international employment law. Raoul specialises in helping multinational companies solve employment law problems and co-leads the London office's international practice.

Key Takeaways:

(00:45) The growing importance of understanding employee classification in a globalised business environment.

(03:16) The importance of correctly identifying employees versus contractors to avoid legal pitfalls.

(04:00) The consequences of being an employee include protection from termination, unlike contractors.

(06:19) Different employment lawyers can give different answers about worker classification.

(08:00) In most countries, you’re either employed or self-employed.

(10:48) There is no harmonisation across the EU member states regarding worker classification.

(12:24) In some countries, regulatory bodies lead enforcement, while in others, it's up to individual contractors.

(16:07) Employees can file a claim for unpaid wages in employment tribunals for free.

(18:41) The tech sector often makes legitimate use of contractors, creating a grey area between employment and contract work.

(22:35) The remote work trend complicates the monitoring and classification of employees versus contractors.

Resources Mentioned:

Raoul Parekh -

https://www.linkedin.com/in/raoulparekh/

Raoul Parekh -

https://www.littler.com/people/raoul-parekh

Littler | LinkedIn -

https://www.linkedin.com/company/littler-mendelson/

Littler | Website -

https://www.littler.com/

Chambers and Partners -

https://chambers.com/lawyer/raoul-parekh-uk-1:25483886

IEL Elite - International Employment Lawyers -

https://www.internationalemploymentlawyer.com/iel-elite

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Strategies for integrating global workforces with Christopher Hitchins of Katten Muchin Rosenman UK LLP

omnipres.podcast@gmail.com (Omnipresent) — Thu, 20 Jun 2024 07:20:00 -0400

In an era where businesses are increasingly crossing borders, understanding the intricacies of international employment law is crucial. In this episode, Christopher Hitchins, Managing Partner, London of the law firm Katten Muchin Rosenman UK LLP and an experienced employment lawyer, discusses the legal challenges and cultural nuances that global businesses must navigate to thrive.

Key Takeaways:

(02:04) The importance of understanding and maintaining workplace culture across borders.

(02:52) The challenges of adopting a one-size-fits-all strategy in international employment.

(04:07) The increasing trend of businesses hiring internationally early in their lifecycle.

(06:27) The impact of Brexit on financial services companies setting up in mainland Europe.

(08:44) The role of PEO solutions in large-scale multinational transactions.

(10:34) Aligning corporate cultures during multinational transactions to mitigate legal risks.

(14:09) The significance of ESG principles in shaping company identity and attracting investment.

(17:00) The complexities of employee equity schemes in an international context.

(23:24) Legal considerations for regulated financial services employees.

Resources Mentioned:

Christopher Hitchins - https://www.linkedin.com/in/christopherhitchins/

Katten Muchin Rosenman UK LLP | LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/katten-muchin-rosenman-llp/

Katten Muchin Rosenman UK LLP | Website - https://katten.com/

Thanks for listening to the Global Workforce Podcast. If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a 5-star review. And be sure to subscribe so you never miss any insightful conversations.

#WorkforcePodcast #GlobalExpansion #WorkforceCompliance #RemoteWork

Navigating M&A employee transfer with James Mallet & Emma Gleaves of Omnipresent

omnipres.podcast@gmail.com (Omnipresent) — Thu, 20 Jun 2024 06:39:08 -0400

Navigating the complexities of international employee transfers is no small feat. In this episode, Omnipresent’s James Mallet, Co-General Counsel and Director - VP Corporate, and Emma Gleaves, Head of Global Benefits, bring their extensive expertise to the table. They discuss the intricacies of cross-border mergers and acquisitions, employee transfer mechanisms and compliance challenges. They also cover the importance of early planning, the legal nuances of 2P regulations and the human element of these transitions.

Key Takeaways:

(03:27) Aligning contracts is crucial for successful employee transfers.

(05:34) Legal compliance swings between protecting workers and being pro-business.

(09:24) Actions before and during transfers are critical for compliance.

(11:17) Clarifying how benefits like pensions and healthcare are handled.

(16:35) Understanding the material legal and financial risks in transfers.

(18:07) Multi-jurisdictional deals require thorough early-stage analysis.

(00:19:20) Transparent communication and empathy are essential during transfers.

(22:10) Start early with tax and legal advisors to avoid unexpected issues.

(24:10) Following compliance rules on employee consultation is mandatory.

Resources Mentioned:

James Mallet - https://www.linkedin.com/in/james-mallet-07980828/

Emma Gleaves - https://www.linkedin.com/in/emma-gleaves/

Omnipresent - https://www.omnipresent.com/

Thanks for listening to the Global Workforce Podcast. If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a 5-star review. And be sure to subscribe so you never miss any insightful conversations.

#WorkforcePodcast #GlobalExpansion #WorkforceCompliance #RemoteWork

Exploring employee vs contractor compliance with Suresh Jones and Stan Broome

omnipres.podcast@gmail.com (Omnipresent) — Thu, 20 Jun 2024 06:36:16 -0400

In a business environment where the wrong classification can cost you everything, understanding the distinction between employees and contractors has never been more crucial. On this episode, we’re joined by Omnipresent’s Senior Commercial Manager, Product, Suresh Jones, and Co-General Counsel and VP of Risk and Litigation, Stan Broome. They reveal the strategies that protect your company from costly misclassification risks whilst leveraging a flexible workforce.

Key Takeaways:

(02:04) Contractors are typically less expensive in the short term due to lower costs associated with taxes, social benefits and equipment.

(03:27) Contractors offer flexibility, allowing businesses to quickly scale their workforce up or down.

(04:07) Companies can access top talent quickly by hiring contractors for short-term projects.

(05:30) Misclassification risks include compliance issues and potential legal repercussions.

(06:11) Governments globally are shifting towards protecting workers, increasing scrutiny on contractor classifications.

(09:19) Penalties for misclassification can include fines, back taxes and legal fees, as well as reputational damage.

(16:01) Conducting regular misclassification risk assessments can help businesses stay compliant.

(17:00) Having clear, compliant contracts and verifying contractor identities are crucial steps in managing classification risks.

Resources Mentioned:

Suresh Jones - https://www.linkedin.com/in/sureshpjones/

Stan Broome - https://www.linkedin.com/in/stanbroome/

Omnipresent - https://www.omnipresent.com/

Thanks for listening to the Global Workforce Podcast. If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a 5-star review. And be sure to subscribe so you never miss any insightful conversations.

#WorkforcePodcast #GlobalExpansion #WorkforceCompliance #RemoteWork

Managing a compliant carve-out from Spotify with Olle Råghall of Soundtrap

omnipres.podcast@gmail.com (Omnipresent) — Thu, 20 Jun 2024 06:33:39 -0400

Have you ever wondered what it takes for a startup to thrive amidst acquisitions and global expansion? In this episode, Olle Råghall, COO of Soundtrap, reveals Soundtrap’s incredible journey from inception to recent reacquisition by its original founders. We explore strategies for talent retention, managing compliance across different countries and the challenges and successes of navigating a global workforce.

Key Takeaways:

(03:27) Advantages of contractors: cost, time and flexibility.

(04:48) Contractors can be less invested in long-term success.

(05:34) Legal compliance is like a pendulum between protecting workers and being pro-business.

(17:12) Knowing your contractor and protecting intellectual property.

(18:00) Clearly define roles and expectations in job descriptions.

(22:27) OmniProtect covers legal costs, penalties and taxes for misclassification.

(24:18) Regularly review contractors to ensure they haven't become de facto employees.

(31:12) Using contractors is a great way to step into the global workforce.

(35:27) Challenges arise when negotiating with people you must work with post-acquisition.

(43:00) There’s always more ability than opportunity; hire talented people to make a difference.

Resources Mentioned:

Olle Råghall - https://www.linkedin.com/in/olleraghall/

Soundtrap | LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/olleraghall/

Soundtrap | Website - https://www.soundtrap.com

Omnipresent Homepage - https://www.omnipresent.com

Thanks for listening to the Global Workforce Podcast. If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a 5-star review. And be sure to subscribe so you never miss any insightful conversations.

#WorkforcePodcast #GlobalExpansion #WorkforceCompliance #RemoteWork

Welcome to the Global Workforce Podcast

omnipres.podcast@gmail.com (Omnipresent) — Wed, 12 Jun 2024 08:53:35 -0400

Welcome to the Global Workforce Podcast, your go-to resource for managing remote teams. In each episode, host George Britton sits down with industry experts (from legal, IPO, M&A, GSI, PE and many more), to discuss and discover actionable insights to solve the challenges global workforces face.

If you’re looking to optimise your business growth and freedom, and create work experiences that see your employees and their skills thrive — anywhere and everywhere — this is the show for you!