Nestle
In your opinion, what makes parent-friendly workplaces the wave of the future?
“At Nestlé MENA, we recognize that the evolution of the workforce calls for environments that honor the individual needs of employees, particularly for those balancing parenting with their careers. We are committed to being at the forefront of this change, fostering a workplace culture that not only attracts but also nurtures the best talent by offering flexible schedules, remote working options, and respecting work-life balance.” said Dalia Attia, Head of Talent & Learning Nestlé Middle East North Africa”.
She added: “We believe that by supporting our employees in all aspects of their lives, we create a more dynamic and innovative workforce. This holistic approach to employee well-being, encompassing family-friendly policies, is a cornerstone of our organizational success.”
Please share ONE unique parent-friendly workplace initiative that your organization is particularly proud of and has made the biggest impact on your employees.
“We believe that our Enhanced Parental Policy, implemented in April 2020, has had a tremendous impact, granting primary caregivers 18 weeks of parental leave and four weeks for secondary caregivers said Dalia Attia, Head of Talent & Learning at Nestlé Middle East North Africa.”
She added: Our policy represents more than just time away from work; it’s a step forward in cultivating strong family bonds and equality in parenting roles. Particularly significant is the establishment of a global minimum for secondary caregivers, where previously there was none, allowing fathers to engage in their children’s lives from the outset.”
What are some of the business benefits (such as on retention, satisfaction, productivity. etc.) you have seen from being a parent-friendly workplace?
“At Nestlé MENA, we are committed to the healthy development of children. By providing parental support and implementing flexible workplace policies, we aspire to cultivate an environment that uplifts employee well-being and strengthens family connections. This well-being directly correlates to enhanced productivity, proving that when our employees thrive in their personal lives, their professional output is significantly enriched. Our internal employee well-being surveys reflect this correlation.
She added: “Acknowledging the realities of parenting, our flexible scheduling options recognize that family responsibilities extend beyond traditional business hours. By enabling parents to attend to their children’s needs without compromising their work commitments, we not only support our employees but also reinforce a culture of trust and mutual respect,” said Nisrine Bakhos, Human Resources Services Specialist at Nestlé Middle East North Africa.
You support your employees in a special way through shared parental leave, breast pump reimbursement and 6 month policy reviews. Please share real story(s) (anonymous if you prefer) where your employees have benefited from this support.
“The breast pump reimbursement benefit was invaluable, providing financial assistance for essential equipment. The dedicated breast pumping rooms are convenient and offer a comfortable and private space for expressing milk while at work. Additionally, the “mum & me time” was immensely beneficial, allowing me to spend more quality time with my newborn during those crucial early months. This facilitated a smoother transition back to work, allowing me to provide for my family while remaining attentive to my child’s needs.“
Kershnee Naicker – Business Unite Controller at Nestlé MENA
“Nestlé has been immensely helpful throughout my motherhood journey. They reimbursed my electric pump, among other benefits for new mothers, along with the 18 weeks of paid maternity leave and flexible work hours upon returning from maternity leave.”
Nicole Daoud – Executive Medical Delegate at Nestlé
“The flexible work environment at Nestlé has been a game changer, allowing me to effectively balance my professional responsibilities while taking on a new, challenging role at work and as a first-time parent. With the support of policies like parental leave and carer sick leave, I’ve been able to prioritize my family’s needs without sacrificing my career or time with my loved ones. The flexibility has allowed me to navigate parenthood with confidence, knowing that my employer values and supports my well-being and that of my family.“
“The flexibility provided by Nestlé’s policy and by my line manager is a great benefit for me as a parent. I now have the freedom to organize my day, pick up my kids from nursery and school, and work from home when needed. This allows me to maintain a healthy work-life balance while remaining productive and focused on my work priorities.
“Modern daily life can be demanding, and managing daily routines presents a real challenge for working parents. That’s why a flexible working environment really makes a difference.”
“Nestlé has truly shown its commitment to helping and supporting parents, especially new mothers like myself. These policies have supported me significantly in safely raising my daughter and have empowered and encouraged my first-time experience as a mom.”
“Our parental policy makes me feel very comfortable and allows me to work with peace of mind, knowing that I can take the needed time when I have to be with those closest to me, my family, and my child. The ecosystem around me, including my line manager and peers, is all understanding and supportive.”
