Return to work: How did Nina return to work after 8 years out. Her way | Deloitte UK has been saved
Transaction Services Manager, Nina Ledlie, tells us how she came back after an eight-year career break to agile working, an exciting role, and a firm that’s “not just talking the talk”.
Where were you before you joined Deloitte?
Previously, I qualified as a Chartered Accountant with Deloitte in the Edinburgh Office, then worked in Transaction Services and M&A Advisory in Glasgow. I took a career break to go travelling and raise my children. Then, after eight years, I felt ready to return to the workplace and joined Deloitte as part of the Return to Work Programme, in September 2017.
What’s your working pattern like?
The Return to Work Programme is based on a 4-day week, so an 80% presence. I worked one day a week from home. Once the programme finished, I was offered a permanent role on an Annualised Days basis, which means I work on a 65% presence over a year. This provides me with great flexibility in terms of managing school holiday commitments. My coach and sponsoring partner were instrumental in enabling me to work in such an agile way.
What’s the most exciting part of coming back?
My role has allowed me to reskill technically, refresh IT skills, and re-find the confidence to reconnect with fellow professionals – something that can be challenging after a career break. Working in Transaction Services means that it’s never the same from one week to the next, and there’s always scope to add significant value to our clients. I’ve recently taken a secondment in Learning and Development; I’m also enjoying the new experience of being in a strategic position within the firm.
How is Deloitte different to other organisations?
The culture here is meritocratic, open, engaged and constantly evolving. Deloitte is not just ‘talking the talk’. During my time with the firm, and through the Return to Work Programme, I’ve met some of the senior leadership team and have seen first-hand their commitment to both meet and exceed client expectations, and to develop and support their employees.
I would definitely recommend the Deloitte experience to a new recruit. The firm is able to support and provide opportunities to drive your career forward in many different directions.
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