Offshore shift gathers pace as PwC Australia moves EA jobs to Manila

PwC Australia is moving 48 executive assistant roles to the Philippines, a decision that will see the majority of its EA workforce based in Manila as the firm continues to reshape its operations and support structure, as reported by HRD.

The move will increase the share of Philippines-based executive assistant roles from 38 per cent to 58 per cent, according to reports. Employees affected by the transition will be offered redeployment opportunities, reskilling support and career transition services.

The development marks another significant offshore workforce shift within the professional services sector, where firms are increasingly looking at lower-cost operational hubs to streamline expenses and improve efficiency.

Internal review

A spokesperson from PwC Australia told The Australian that the decision followed recommendations from an internal review into the firm’s operations.

"For the firm to deliver sustainable performance and growth, PwC regularly reviews its operations," the spokesperson told the news outlet.

"We are committed to supporting impacted EAs through redeployment opportunities, providing career transition services, access to reskilling courses, and dedicated wellbeing support throughout this transition."

The spokesperson’s comments come as consulting and accounting firms globally continue to reassess staffing models amid rising operational costs and pressure on margins.

Manila expansion

PwC Australia’s Manila operation was established in 2019 under former chief executive Luke Sayers. The firm holds a 27% stake in the Philippines operation, which has steadily expanded over the years.

According to reports, all newly appointed partners since 2019 have been assigned Philippines-based support staff instead of locally hired executive assistants. Current chief executive Kevin Burrowes also reportedly has part of his internal support team based in Manila.

The latest restructuring highlights how offshore hubs are becoming deeply embedded within the operating models of major consulting firms.