In 2011, The Principal Financial Group began testing remote work arrangements with its customer service employees, many of whom now have access to its servers from afar.

When moms at this financial services company were surveyed last year about why they’d recommend working there, they cited its attractive corporate culture and support for work life balance as top draws. It’s no wonder: At least 74% of survey respondents were able to work off-site at some point in 2011, while 25% reported doing so regularly. Interested employees can consult the company’s own flexibility website to assess their scheduling options and make flex requests. To stay healthy, 83% of the workforce requested medical screenings on-site in 2011 (earning $390 off their insurance premiums in the process); nearly 10% consulted health coaches. A number of sites boast gyms with free memberships, personal trainers or exercise classes.

Chairman, President & CEO Larry Zimpleman

Senior VP, HR and Corporate Services Ralph Eucher

Women managers/execs 55%

Women hires in 2011 57%

Average weeks of fully paid maternity leave offered 2

Offers paid paternity leave? No

Offers paid adoption leave? Yes

Women in affinity groups in 2011 Not tracked

Offers backup child care? No

Employees working flexibly 87%