A New Chapter in a Continuing Career

Priya Ross, Associate Director in our Birmingham MBA team, has recently returned from maternity leave after welcoming her daughter, Nora. We’re delighted to have her back!

Reflecting on the experience, Priya describes the support she received from colleagues as making a real difference during this important life transition, Priya said “since announcing my pregnancy through to the birth of Nora and returning to work, Hilco have been a great support.” Priya stayed in regular contact with her line manager and team. “To be honest, the general chats never really stopped, which was really nice.” Priya also made use of several “keeping in touch” days, which helped ease the progression back into working life.

Priya’s return corresponded with the firm’s annual appraisal period, giving her a chance to reconnect with colleagues and revisit her professional goals. “It was a great opportunity to catch up and remind myself of my objectives for the year, although it was quite difficult remembering what had happened over 13 months ago!” she laughs.

She admits that for much of the past year she felt in a “mum bubble” but it has been refreshing to switch back into work mode and reconnect with clients and colleagues. Priya has recently attended several events for International Women’s Day. She sees these as a valuable opportunity to strengthen relationships with clients while celebrating and highlighting the strengths women demonstrate in everyday life.

Becoming a parent has shaped Priya’s approach to work. She says motherhood has strengthened her time management and prioritisation skills, while giving her a new perspective on balance. Although “mum guilt” occasionally appears, she hopes to show Nora that it is possible to be both a devoted parent and build a fulfilling career.

Priya comments, “Whilst delivering work and advice to a high standard is always at the front of my mind, the social gatherings have felt the most meaningful aspect of my role since returning. Catching up with the team and our clients has been really important and allowed me to gather a much better insight into last year.”