Novartis

In your opinion, what makes parent-friendly workplaces the wave of the future?

First and foremost, societal norms have shifted, and there is now a greater recognition of the importance of work-life balance. Parent-friendly policies and practices are essential for attracting and retaining top talent, particularly among the younger generation, who prioritize flexibility and work-life integration. By offering benefits such as flexible working hours, parental leave, and wellbeing initiatives for employees and their family, companies can create an environment where employees can effectively manage their work and family commitments. This, in turn, leads to higher job satisfaction, lower absenteeism, and reduced turnover rates.

By implementing policies that support working parents, organizations can create equal opportunities for both men and women. This not only benefits individuals and families but also contributes to a more inclusive and diverse workforce.

In addition, the COVID-19 pandemic has accelerated the need for parent-friendly workplaces. With remote work becoming the new norm, parents have had to juggle their professional responsibilities with homeschooling and childcare. Companies that have adapted by offering flexible schedules, remote work options, and additional support for parents have demonstrated their commitment to employee well-being and have gained a competitive edge. Investing in parent-friendly policies and practices is not only beneficial for employees and their families but also for the long-term success and sustainability of businesses

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 want our people to feel empowered and energized every day to be their best selves and to be fulfilled both at home and at work. At Novartis, we celebrate life and recognize moments that matter. One of the most life changing moments our associates experience is becoming a parent and welcoming new life into their lives. The ONE unique parent-friendly workplace initiative is that our people can benefit from a minimum period of 14-weeks paid parental leave for all new parents following the birth or adoption of a child. By offering the same parental leave to all parents, regardless of gender, we want to promote greater equity for birthing and non-birthing parents and give everyone the flexibility and opportunity to make the right choices for their families.

What are some of the business benefits you have seen from being a parent-friendly workplace?

Implementing Parent- friendly policies and fostering a supportive workplace culture has yielded in several business benefits as witnessed in our Internal Employee Surveys and Employee Engagement.

We have seen improved and enhanced productivity due to the flexible work options and hybrid working model that is in place at Novartis. These practices have also helped attract Top Talent as we are offering family- friendly benefits that are unique to Novartis.

We have also seen reduced absenteeism as parents are better able to balance work and family responsibilities, leading to fewer unplanned absences. In addition, Novartis being a parent friendly workplace has created a positive public image and helps promote diversity and inclusion.

You support your employees in special ways through shared parental leaves and the parental leave handbook for managers. Please share real story(s) where your employees have benefited from this support.

“As a working mother I face many challenges like finding the balance between family and work commitments, coping with the guilt of being away from my daughter, and then also coping with sleep deprivation. I would like to thank Novartis for providing us with 14 weeks paid parental leave. This was very essential and very crucial to bond effectively with my daughter and to recover physically.”

Reham Aldebisi, Brand Manager Rheumatology Gulf

“What I appreciate about the parental leave at Novartis is that I did not have to cancel my personal life to fulfil my duty as a parent”
Hasan Jean, Senior Manager Risk & Resilience & Assurance

Testimonials

Ehab Saad, Therapeutic Area Medical Head, Oncology

“Novartis parental leave policy created magical moments to connect not only with my newborn baby but with my whole family.”

Bahira Hijjawi, People Partner Gulf Cluster

“The Wellbeing Initiative at Novartis has provided platforms for me and my family to connect more and also to have a physical, social and mental balance through the various programs and activities they offer.”

Fatema Hunaid, Communications & Engagement Manager Gulf

“The hybrid working model has enhanced my productivity, reduced stress related to commuting, and provided opportunities for a better integration of personal and professional life.”

Ahmed Shawarby – Senior Business Manager Migraine Gulf

”The Parental leave benefits offered by Novartis has multifold benefits. As a people manager, I was able to collaborate efficiently with my team members and cross functional teams, despite being in different geographical location and time zone. My manager was very supportive during the entire process to ensure that there was a smooth transition for me while I was away to manage my responsibilities as a parent and a husband.”