Creative work arrangements are a hallmark of this management consulting firm, where all employees can flex their schedules and nearly all of them worked off-site at some point last year. Women may reduce their schedules by 40% and still be considered for promotions; in fact, most of the female partners here have worked part-time. Employees who desire more freedom can get it, too, as demonstrated by a group of administrative staffers who recently scored a formal flextime program. Moms love the firm’s two-month sabbaticals and educational leaves of absence (which include tuition aid). “Bain has been incredibly flexible in helping me create a career path tailored to my interests and priorities,” says Rebecca Tadikonda, a New York City–based manager and mom of two.

Worldwide Managing Director Steve Ellis

Partner & Chief Talent Officer Russ Hagey

Women managers/execs 35% 

Women among top earners 20% 

Women hires in 2010 46% 

Average weeks of fully paid maternity leave offered 12 

Allows new moms to “phase back” into work with reduced hours? Yes

Offers affinity group for new mothers? No

Offers backup childcare? Yes

Employees working flexibly 87%