I am so proud to work for a firm which proactively supports working mothers in managing work and family. As I prepared to go on my maternity leave in May 2020, right in the midst of the Covid-19 lockdown, KPMG provided me with the support, guidance, and resources to smoothly transition from my work. I received plenty of advice from other senior female leaders in other KPMG member firms who inspired me and gave me practical tips on how to manage being a first-time mom, while remaining close to my team and clients.
I have always wanted to be a mom. Many had warned me that being a senior female leader in a Big four company would prove extremely difficult in terms of balancing family and work. But my experience so far has proven otherwise. Given the project-based nature of our work, I was able to take maternity leave without jeopardizing my career growth plans. In fact, KPMG’s senior leadership demonstrated their faith in me by providing me with even more opportunities to continue to lead teams and develop new solutions upon my return to work.
Becoming a mom has been the most beautiful and rewarding experience in my life. While on leave, I was able to spend a lot of precious moments with my baby boy—his first smile, first laugh, first time swimming, first solid foods, and many more. During this period, he’s made me a much more patient and grateful person. I’m also blessed to have a supportive husband who helped me every day to care for our son and give him the love he needs. Throughout this process, I’ve realized that a combination of having a supportive family and an employer who truly cares about your well-being makes a huge difference in making sure you’re able to lead a healthy, productive, and fulfilling life.
As I was preparing for re-entry, I agreed upon a gradual transition back to work which allowed me to enjoy quality time with my son, whilst gradually adjusting to attending client meetings, leading proposals, and managing teams. Given the flexibility of working arrangements and the support provided to me during the entire process, I truly believe KPMG is one of the best places to work as a new parent.