"The THG Parents' Network has been a great support system. Just knowing that there’s a community of other parents within the company makes a big difference."

From navigating the challenges of returning to work post-pregnancy to the support she’s received from her colleagues, Sara shares her insight into the realities of being a working parent. With her son now one and a half, she talks about the joys and hurdles of motherhood, her personal growth, and how being part of THG’s Parents Network has supported her both professionally and personally.  

Have there been any role models or sources of support for you throughout your journey? 

One of my colleagues on the Parent’s Network Committee, Katie, became a mum around the same time. She really supported me in ensuring I had the right information coming back after my pregnancy. It was nice to have someone who understands your situation and that you can ask questions to. 

Also, Sam Davys, our EDI Lead, who helped refurbish our expressing room to ensure it was fit for purpose. We now have a proper pumping room, which has helped me and many other mums. Returning to the workplace can be challenging because, during that time away, you change so much—sometimes it feels like becoming a different person. It can be a really vulnerable time for some women. I think it’s fundamental that new mums feel supported and comfortable when returning. Being from the Netherlands, where breastfeeding is very normalised, that time out of my day to express is so precious. It’s my son's food, so it is essential that parents feel comfortable and supported in that space. 

What's one achievement, big or small, that you're especially proud of, whether at work or home? 

I was quite worried about how being pregnant and having a child would impact my career. I'm very career-driven and take a lot of pride in my work, so naturally, I was concerned about what it would mean for my job. However, I found that the hard work I had put in before my pregnancy and upon my return was still recognised. In fact, I was promoted to Head of Marketing for Myprotein not long after coming back. 

I felt very proud that all the years of dedication weren’t overshadowed by the nine months my career had to take a backseat as I was raising my son. It reassured me that my work had a lasting impact even when I wasn’t physically present. I think it's an important story to tell because there’s often hesitation around whether having a child will hinder career progression. My experience shows that it doesn’t have to. 

What are some personal growth areas you’ve developed since becoming a parent? 

One thing I’m proud of is how much my time management has improved—it has made me a better employee. Parenthood teaches you patience, and I've also learned the importance of work-life balance. I know when to say, "Right now I need to pick up my son and until after bedtime he’s my priority" because I have other responsibilities. 

There are so many skills you develop as a parent that translate into the workplace. In many ways, they should be recognised more. You return to work having grown as a person, which positively impacts your professional life too. That said, I also needed my job. By the end of my maternity leave, I was so ready to go back. I realised that my work is a huge part of my identity and how I feel fulfilled. It gives me purpose in a different way, and I was eager to dive back in. 

How has becoming a parent changed your perspective on purpose and productivity? 

Having a child has given me a new sense of purpose. Before, I thought people meant that in a big, life-changing way, but for me, it’s more about how every moment now feels meaningful. There’s no wasted time. Every part of my day is intentional—whether it’s engaging with my child, introducing them to new foods, or teaching them two languages in our household. 

It’s not about setting grand ambitions; it’s about the small, everyday moments that matter. Even on tough days, I find comfort in knowing that there’s no option but to keep going. Parenthood forces you to show up, and that, in itself, builds confidence. 

I think there’s sometimes a perception that once you become a parent, you’re not as engaged in your career. But for me, it’s been the complete opposite. If I’m away from my child, my time at work has to be valuable. I need to feel like I’m making an impact. I can’t afford to have a day where I’m not productive or engaged because that’s time I could be spending with my child. 

In a way, I feel even more driven now. I know I want my time at work to be meaningful, and I want to continue growing in my career. It’s an interesting shift in mindset that I hadn’t expected before becoming a parent. 

How has being part of the THG Parents' Network supported you in balancing work and life? 

The THG Parents' Network has been a great support system. Just knowing that there’s a community of other parents within the company makes a big difference. Within my division, it’s been helpful to connect with other mums and recognise that we share similar experiences. 

For example, we had a parent-focused day out within the Nutrition team, and it was eye-opening to see just how many of us were navigating parenthood while managing our careers. It also helps to break the taboo around discussing parenthood at work. Sometimes, there’s an assumption that parents—especially mums—might be less engaged or that their priorities shift entirely. But when you see others in the same boat, you realise that’s not the case. 

Even small things, like spotting someone else wearing a Parents Network badge, create a sense of camaraderie. The network offers reassurance that you’re not alone and that there’s a strong support system in place, which makes balancing work and life that little bit easier.