Novartis offers “lunch and learns” on pediatric issues from sleep to nutrition at firm headquarters, with a dial-in option for moms who can’t attend in person.

Being there for the kids isn’t the only reason this East Hanover, NJ–based pharmaceutical company offers its employees flexible schedules. “I’ve used my arrangements to allow more time for friendships, community activities, fitness and personal interests,” says mom Laurie Letvak, an MD who serves as global program head for its Glivac and Tasigna division and now compresses her weeks after years as a part-time worker. Jobsharers, telecommuters and other flex fans can rely on the firm’s easily customizable child-care offerings, including discounts on fulltime care at national chains with budget-friendly backup (just $15 to $25 per day) and in-home sick care ($5 per hour). Impressively, anyone who saves $4,000 in a pretax child-care account is gifted another $1,000 by the company. Summer camp fairs and college coaching programs help make life a little easier for the parents of older kids.

CEO, NPC & Head of Pharma North America: Ludwig Hansen

VP: Anish Batlaw

Women managers/execs: 44%

Women among top earners: 38%

Women on board of directors: 17%

Women corporate executive hires in 2008: 35%

Women participating in management or leadership training in the past year: 30%

Women participating in formalized executive succession planning last year: N/A

Women promoted last year who utilized a formal flexible work arrangement: N/A

Formal compensation policies reward managers who help women advance: No