Alternative work options are vital to first-time moms, as many at this insurance firm make clear. “Thanks to my flexible schedule, I have been able to devote adequate time to my career and family,” says operations support representative Andrea St. Louis, mom of a 10-month-old, who telecommutes twice a week. Communications consultant Kelsey Flynn, mom of an infant, is phasing back to work part-time: “My manager and I found a solution that allows for extended amounts of time at home,” she notes. And financial consultant Karen Fontaine, mom of a toddler, says flextime is a gift: “When I was up most of the night early on, having the ability to sleep in a little was a lifesaver.” In 2011, 93% of the firm’s employees adjusted their hours, while 65% worked off-site at least once.

Chairman, President & CEO Roger Crandall

Executive VP, HR Debra Palermino

Women managers/execs 32%

Women hires in 2011 50%

Average weeks of fully paid maternity leave offered 2

Offers paid paternity leave? No

Offers paid adoption leave? No

Women in affinity groups in 2011 27%

Offers backup child care? Yes

Employees working flexibly 93%