Jutta Hanle, MBA, age 39, with the company group since 1997 (previously with Ericsson, then Schrack BusinessCom and then Kapsch BusinessCom) Head of Corporate Communications at Kapsch BusinessCom

I had a daughter in 2004. As my post was not reassigned but kept open for me, I remained in contact with the company at all times. At first, this was using the odd hour here and there from home, via a VPN link which made it possible to access all the company directories and the intranet at any time. Gradually I built up the number of hours, initially via teleworking, but then increasingly with time in the office again. I’m now working a 30-hour week and can allocate these hours flexibly. Fridays I generally keep clear for my daughter, and in return I’m happy to work late of an evening at home, when things are quiet.
I’ve enjoyed 100% support throughout from Kapsch as a company - I've been able to define the volume of work to suit my circumstances and I didn't lose my fringe benefits during my maternity leave. Of course, it wasn’t – and isn’t – always easy to combine a management post with having a family, but luckily I have a very easy child to look after and I also had full support at all times from my line manager and staff. That’s something I really appreciate from everyone concerned.