Case Study - A flexible lifestyle
Louise Gellman is a partner in Nabarro’s Intellectual Property practice. Louise lives with David, the father of her two daughters, she works four days a week“I started flexible working some five years ago when I was still an associate. I wanted to come back to work but I also wanted to spend time with my first daughter. So I asked if it would be possible.
“People were really supportive – both within the team I worked with and within the firm as a whole.
“I still work flexibly now I have two children, but of course the technology means that when there is something urgent I can deal with it there and then. I try not to do too much on my day with the kids, but I can keep things on track as needed. Although like most people, I could do with an extra day at both ends of the week, I’m able to achieve a good balance. The fact that the firm has helped means a lot to me and my family.
“There is sometimes the impression that having a flexible working arrangement is simply too difficult. Of course, I realise that some roles at Nabarro have periods of intense hours that would make it much trickier. But my experience is that the logistical difficulties are often more apparent than real – and that clients themselves are incredibly supportive. They think the arrangement reflects well on the firm.
“I was told when I was promoted to partner that it was the first time that someone working flexibly had been made up. I won’t be the last, I’m sure.”
