Making work work, together
Flexible hours
Flexible work practices were introduced to Mallesons over 10 years ago and many staff have been working part-time or job sharing for a number of years. And it’s not just about women. Many men today are conscious of the need to spend time with family or seek flexibility to manage other areas of their lives. The most common reasons people at Mallesons opt for flexible working are managing family responsibilities such as children or caring for elders, study, health issues, sporting commitments and phased retirement.
Flexible work policies mean that we attract and retain the best talent. And what’s good for our people is good for us.
Robyn Chalmers,
EEO Partner
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“I've been with the firm 26 years. In that time I've seen some significant changes in the legal profession. I was the first partner to take maternity leave and the first partner to work part-time.
The challenge for the future is to give men and women enough flexibility to want to work in the demanding environment of a commercial law firm.
Diversity brings you people who do things differently (which adds to the colour and interest of the place). People are happier and more committed if they enjoy other things in their life.”
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Paul Smith,
Senior Associate,
Banking & Finance
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“Legal practice is not a nine-to-five job. But since my daughter was born I have made an effort to make sure that I don’t leave home until she is up and I have spent time with her. I also ensure I am home in time to play with her before she has a bath and goes to bed.
Paul says it is really up to the individual to achieve a work-life balance. He says he often works at home after his daughter has gone to bed, given it is possible to log in from any computer in the world to the Mallesons system.
“What Mallesons has done - which is working well - is to create policies, technological support and cultural support, which encourages people to take charge of their time and make it work for them,” he says.
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Susan Elliott
Knowledge Consultant,
Know How
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“Flexible work policies at Mallesons has allowed me to pursue my open water swimming and triathlon goals. I train with a swimming squad three times a week after work and flexible rostering allows me to stick to my training schedule.
Training for distance events like open water swimming requires commitment and determination, and this attitude carries over to the workplace. Keeping fit allows me to work more effectively as I feel energised and motivated when I arrive at work.”
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