Can you describe your experience as a working mum at BAE Systems? 

I joined BAE Systems initially as my twins were starting school. I needed a job close to their primary school as I needed to be able to balance drop offs, pickups and after school clubs with my husband who also worked full time. After being with the organisation only a few weeks I felt really supported by my line manager to make my own priority calls and keep my own balance. As my career has progressed I have worked away from home for a number of years now, and my amazing husband has taken on a lot of responsibilities. However, I have always known that, if I need to, I can make sure I am there for the important, memory making events; I’m really proud to say I have managed to make it to every Sports day and Nativity as I have been allowed to make my own priorities at work. We are very supported at BAE Systems to make our own work life balance decisions.

How has BAE Systems supported you in balancing your work and family responsibilities?

I have always felt that as an organisation there is a sincerity to the policies which allow working parents to succeed. I have never had a request for parental leave or to attend a during-the-day school appointment denied, rather I’ve always been lucky to work for people who care and understand that as a Mum of twin boys I’m much happier in my work life if I can keep the balance and make my own priority calls. We are treated so fairly and with it comes a commitment to BAE Systems that means, in my case, I can’t see myself ever working anywhere else.  

What specific policies or programs at BAE Systems have been most beneficial to you as a working parent?

I have been so well supported and for me the transition from primary school to senior school felt a time I just needed to spend more time focusing on my boys, I applied for parental leave, and within only a couple of days was told it had been approved. A really efficient process, supported by my line manager. I feel very grateful to work in an organisation that can support my choices, and react quickly to my requests.

How has flexible working arrangements or hybrid working impacted your ability to manage both work and home life effectively?

During Covid, working from home was an interesting time. My twins were 7, I was trying to balance back to back work calls and trying to home school (thankfully my husband was far more patient and capable here!). As a team, we worked around our families, like everyone did, but there was a warmth and appreciation about who we all were outside of work that post Covid has really remained in the ethos of BAE Systems culture. We are now able to bring our whole selves to work and as working Mum I never feel I can’t be honest about needing to put my boys first when it is needed. It’s been a really positive shift in our business culture, and working from home now and working hybrid is just part of the business ways of working. This is such a massive leap forward for working parents as we can manage our own time. At BAE Systems, as long as you are committed to doing your best, you will get the same respect paid back, which is great. 

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