Navigating parenthood at Strategy& Amsterdam

Babette Paping, a Manager in the Strategy& NL Healthcare practice, unfolds her transformative experience of stepping into parenthood while growing in the field of strategy consulting.

Background and role at Strategy& Amsterdam
“I've been with Strategy& since 2015. My specialization lies in healthcare and the public sector, and I hold an MBA degree from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) in the US and a master's degree in Logic & Mathematics from the University of Amsterdam”

Becoming a parent
“September 2021 marked a significant chapter in my life with the birth of my son. Concurrently, I moved from Amsterdam to Rotterdam. These life changes prompted me to reevaluate my workweek. Embracing a 4-day work schedule allowed me the flexibility to spend extra time with my son. To navigate the challenges of commuting, I adopted a dynamic approach, alternating between early or late departures and occasional remote work. I prioritize being home by 6 pm each evening, ensuring precious quality time with my family. If necessary, I continue my work after my son's bedtime.”

Challenges
“Combining young parenthood with the demands of a strategy consultant presented initial challenges for me. Starting a new project for a new client coincided with my son's frequent illnesses during daycare initiation. Juggling a breastfeeding schedule, sleepless nights, and adapting to the demands of a 4-day workweek required a significant adjustment period. Finding the right balance between personal and professional life was a journey in itself.”

Support
“Strategy& played a pivotal role in my ability to navigate these challenges. The firm's commitment to supporting working parents is evident through its 'must-have conversations' program, designed specifically for new parents. Regular check-ins with a Partner and HR Manager provided me with invaluable support during my pregnancy and return to work. This proactive approach empowered me to strike a balance between professional aspirations and personal responsibilities.

The firm's commitment extended beyond conversation, as Strategy& took concrete steps to support me. During periods of increased demand, additional team members were assigned to manage my workload, allowing me to focus on my new role as a parent. Non-project responsibilities, such as interviewing, were minimized to alleviate my workload further. This support not only acknowledged the challenges but actively contributed to my success as both a consultant and a parent.”

Rutger Bots, a Senior Manager in the Energy Transition team at Strategy& Amsterdam, adeptly manages the demands of strategy consulting alongside the joys and challenges of parenthood.

Background and role at Strategy& Amsterdam
“I graduated from TU Delft in 2014 and joined PwC right after university, making my way to Strategy& Amsterdam eight years ago. As a Senior Manager, I work in the dynamic field of energy transition, specializing in strategy and transformation work.”

Becoming a parent
“In the summer of 2021, my daughter, Lena, came into the world. Recognizing the significance of those early moments, I took two weeks off immediately after her birth. Later, as my wife returned to work, I extended my time off to five weeks to ensure a smooth family transition.

Since January 2022, I've embraced a four-day workweek, reserving Fridays for personal time, often spent exploring Artis. Prioritizing family dinners every night, I emphasize the importance of maintaining connections amidst the demands of my profession.”

Challenges
“Navigating parenthood in strategy consulting has its challenges. The perpetual struggle of protecting work-life balance is a constant, and unforeseen circumstances, such as Lena falling ill, add complexity to my demanding schedule. Having colleagues to talk to, and who understand that you cannot always be present has been extremely important to me.”

Support
“Strategy& plays a crucial role in my journey, offering a four-day workweek and empowering managers with increased control over their agendas. My colleagues are understanding and supportive, respecting my designated "papa day."
Crucially, I acknowledge the unwavering support from my wife and family as the linchpin to my success in balancing career and parenthood. Their understanding and encouragement enable me to excel in my professional pursuits while cherishing precious family moments.”