JPMorgan’s Five-Day Office Mandate Under Fire as Employee Petition Resurfaces

StartupTalky News

12 Feb 2026 — 3 min read

JPMorgan’s Five-Day Office Mandate Under Fire as Employee Petition Resurfaces

Nearly a year after JPMorgan Chase enforced a strict five-day office attendance policy, some employees are still pushing back, with an online petition opposing the rule continuing to attract signatures. The petition, addressed to CEO Jamie Dimon, calls for hybrid work options to return, even as many staff fear public opposition could harm their careers.

The controversy reflects broader tensions in the financial sector over workplace culture and flexibility, especially in large investment banks that are returning to traditional office routines.

What Prompted JPMorgan’s Full Office Return

In January 2025, JPMorgan Chase, America’s largest bank with more than 300,000 employees worldwide, announced that hybrid working would be officially phased out for most corporate staff.

A memo shared internally explained that employees who had been working a mix of office and remote days would now be expected on-site five days a week from March 2025. Senior leaders said that in-person presence improves collaboration, mentoring and innovation.

CEO Jamie Dimon has long criticised remote work, saying it can hurt teamwork and the development of junior staff who benefit from face-to-face mentoring. He underscored this message at public events and conferences, arguing that young professionals miss out on crucial learning when based at home.

Petition Gathers Support, But Fears of “Career Suicide”

Shortly after the announcement, a group calling itself “JPMC Workers” launched a petition urging Dimon to reconsider the policy. The petition highlighted concerns about work-life balance, global teams spread across continents and time zones, and impacts on women, caregivers and people with disabilities.

By early 2026, the petition had crossed about 2,000 signatures, a small fraction of the bank’s workforce but enough to signal ongoing dissatisfaction.

However, many employees hesitate to sign openly. Some have described adding their name as “career suicide”, fearing retaliation or professional backlash within the company.

Dimon’s Firm Stance and Viral Town Hall Moment

The issue gained national attention after a town hall meeting in early 2025 when Dimon was recorded dismissing the petition. He reportedly told employees “Don’t waste time on it — I don’t care how many people sign that f*ing petition.”**

Dimon has repeatedly defended the five-day return-to-office (RTO) requirement, insisting it is vital for culture, client service and staff development. He has also stated that employees unhappy with the mandate are free to pursue other opportunities.

The CEO has also said that although he respects individual preferences for remote work, the bank’s policy will not change because it believes in-person work best supports performance and long-term success.

Office Realities and Broader Industry Trends

The shift back to the office has not been smooth for all staff. Earlier reports described crowded workspaces, desk shortages, noisy environments and connectivity issues, with some employees struggling to find workspace upon arrival.

JPMorgan is not alone. Other large financial firms, including Goldman Sachs and PNC, have also enforced strict office attendance rules as part of a wider industry trend favouring pre-pandemic working structures.

What Happens Next

As the five-day office requirement continues into 2026, internal debate shows no sign of disappearing. Employees and industry observers are watching closely to see whether ongoing concerns translate into broader changes or whether the bank’s leadership will hold to its position.

For now, JPMorgan remains committed to its full-time in-office policy, while hybrid work advocates within the company continue to push for more flexible arrangements.