Making work, parenting and career progression work together

For many parents and carers, balancing a demanding career with family life isn’t straightforward. For Maria Holloway-Strong, a Principal Engineering Geologist within our Ground Engineering and Tunnelling practice, that balance has been shaped by flexibility, trust – and the support of others.

Based at our Woodcote Grove office in Epsom, Maria works four days a week and is a single parent to three children. Alongside her technical role, she line manages early-career professionals and is an active member of ParentNet, our employee network for parents and carers.

“There isn’t really a ‘typical day’ for me,” Maria explains. “Some days are very people-focused, others are deeply technical. Having that variety – and the autonomy to manage my time – makes a huge difference.”

When flexibility really matters

Over the past few years, Maria has navigated periods where one of her children required frequent hospital admissions and ongoing medical appointments.

“The understanding and flexibility I’ve had at work made it possible for me to keep going during an incredibly difficult time,” she says. “I was able to work flexibly, take time out when needed, and still deliver in my role.”

That flexibility wasn’t treated as an exception – it was simply how work happened.

“Even now, my colleagues are aware of my caring responsibilities, and we find ways to make it work. That support has helped me manage stress and continue providing for my family.”

How ParentNet makes a difference

As a ParentNet member, Maria values the sense of connection that comes from sharing experiences with others who understand the realities of balancing work and caring responsibilities.

“ParentNet helps make those realities visible,” she says. “It creates space for honest conversations, peer support, and practical initiatives – whether that’s support when returning to work, influencing policy, or events focused on things like children’s mental health.”

It also plays a role in normalising flexibility across the business, so parents and carers don’t feel they have to justify how they work.

Shaping inclusive leadership

Parenting has also influenced how Maria shows up as a leader.

“I have realistic expectations, I’m open about mistakes, and I try to lead with empathy,” she says. “Those are things I’ve learned through being a parent – and they’ve made me a better manager.”

Her experience has also deepened her understanding of neurodiversity, helping her support colleagues with greater awareness and compassion.

A culture that makes it possible

For Maria, what truly stands out isn’t just the work itself, but the culture around it.

“There’s a real sense of community and mutual support here,” she says. “People are happy to share knowledge, help each other out, and make space for life outside work.

It’s that culture – supported by networks like ParentNet – that allows people to build meaningful careers without having to choose between work and family.

Want to see how we support parents, carers, and colleagues at every stage of life? Explore our people stories and learn more about our inclusive culture.