Menu ToggleMenu Hide
  • Facebook
  • Twitter
  • Glassdoor
  • Linkedin
  • English
    • Français (Canada)
  • English English English en
  • Français Français French fr
  • Français (Canada) Français (Canada) Français (Canada) fr-ca
  • 简体中文 简体中文 简体中文 zh-hans
  • Deutsch Deutsch German de
  • Português (Brasil) Português (Brasil) Português (Brasil) pt-br
  • Español (América Latina) Español (América Latina) Español (América Latina) es
WTW
  • Home
  • About WTW
    • ABOUT US
    • WTW Work Flex
  • Early Careers
    • APPRENTICESHIPS
      • APPRENTICESHIP FAQs
    • INTERNSHIPS
    • GRADUATE PROGRAMS
  • Experienced Professionals
    • Consulting
    • RISK ANALYTICS AND MODELING
    • Actuarial
    • Broking/Placement
    • Technology
    • Operations
    • Corporate
    • Client Management
    • Sales
    • Project Management
    • RESEARCH AND PRODUCT DEVELOPMENT
    • UNDERWRITING
    • Service Center
  • Search Jobs
    • FAQs
    • Hints and Tips
  • Our Stories

To stay informed about new openings: Join our talent network

Slide background

OUR STORIES


Slide background

OUR STORIES


#MyWTW: Returning to work after a career break

Caroline Barber, Inclusive Recruitment Program Manager, shares her experience returning to work after taking a career break and joining WTW.

Tell us about your current role at WTW.

I have recently taken on the newly-created role of Global Program Manager for Inclusive Recruitment at WTW. The purpose of the role is to fully imbed our existing Inclusive Recruitment strategy and to come up with new initiatives and ideas to attract and hire more diverse talent.

Tell us about the WTW journey to develop a role dedicated to inclusivity and diversity and the purpose of the role.

WTW has always had a very strong focus on the importance of I&D within the business and has identified that, in order to continue delivering our commitments in this space, a role has been created within our recruitment function which is dedicated to I&D. For me, it shows just how serious WTW are about I&D and ensuring that all colleagues are supported and are able to bring their full selves to work every day.

Do you think companies are starting to evolve in their thinking?

Absolutely. Having worked in the insurance industry for the last 20 years, I have seen changes being made, although we still have a long way to go. What was once and environment which was severely lacking in diversity has become much more inclusive and this can only be a positive thing. I for one don’t want to work somewhere where everyone is the same and has similar ideas and outlooks. By having more diverse colleagues, we are fostering a much more exciting, creative, and productive business.

What challenges do you face in this recruitment space of inclusion and diversity and how can we overcome them?

As I’ve already said, as an industry, we have come a long way, however there is so much more we can do to create inclusive working environments. Education and training are huge factors here and the more we are able to talk openly and honestly about the challenges which we still face, the easier they will be to overcome. I also think that businesses can do a lot to work together and create a more inclusive industry as a whole.

Can you share why WTW is participating in the returner program?

WTW recognises the wealth of talent there is amongst returners and the huge benefit they can bring to the business. Returners can bring extremely valuable skill sets and different perspectives to a team and contribute massively to their success.

What did you do during your career break?

I took a career break of around 9 months in 2019 in order to reassess what I wanted to do and where I wanted my career to go. I felt as though I has sat in the ‘comfy seat’ for too long and needed a new challenge. During my break I had a much-needed rest and also spent time focussing on myself and my priorities – Pilates and running also played a very big part in this! It also enabled me to have a bit of breathing space and spend some really valuable time with friends and family.

How did you return to work and into which role?

When I started thinking about returning to work, I knew it had to be at the right time for me. Finding the right role was also crucial – I didn’t want to undo all of the good work I had done! One of my priorities was to work more locally and not to have such a long commute as I had previously. I also wanted to work in an environment where I would be supported and could develop my career. The role I returned to was as an Underwriter (something I had done for many years) but in a different area to my previous role. This enabled me to use my skills but also do something which wasn’t identical to what I had done before.  

Do you have any advice for others looking to return to work?

Don’t be concerned about what other people think about having taken a career break. I was very nervous about how others would perceive me taking time out, however it was only ever viewed positively. Whatever the reason for the break it should never be an issue and if you come across an employer who thinks it is, they aren’t the right fit for you! Returning to work is never easy, however I found it to be an extremely positive experience and has enabled me to take my career in a completely different direction and find a role which I love!

Willis Towers Watson

At Willis Towers Watson, we believe in equal employment opportunities, and we are committed to developing a diverse workforce and creating an inclusive work environment where everyone is respected, valued and appreciated. We do not tolerate any form of unlawful discrimination, nor do we support any action or initiative that infringes upon any human right.

  • Global Website Privacy Notice
  • Terms and conditions
  • Applicant Privacy Notice
  • EOE and Compliance Notices
  • Contact
  • Cookie Notice
  • About WTW
  • Early careers
  • Experienced professionals
  • Search jobs
  • Willistowerswatson.com
  • Twitter
  • Linkedin
  • Instagram
  • Youtube
  • Facebook
To stay informed about new openings: Join our talent network
  • Terms and conditions
  • Privacy
  • Contact
  • Equal Employment Opportunity
We’re committed to equal employment opportunity, and provide reasonable accommodations to all applicants. If you would like to request any accommodations from application through to interview, please email candidate.helpdesk@willistowerswatson.com
Leonardo Araujo Soumya Kurup
We use cookies to ensure that we give you the best experience on our website. If you continue to use this site we will assume that you are happy with it.Ok
Scroll to top