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#MyWTW: How I maintain the perfect work-life balance at WTW
Beth Koodish, Business Support Specialist, shares her experience of flexible working at WTW and how it helps her balance full time work while raising her son.
As we grow in life and go through different stages, it is so rewarding to work for a company that grows with me; from being in the office full-time, to remote working and looking after my child, and then to hybrid working and having the perfect balance of home and office environments!
When I started at WTW, I was single and worked full-time in the office. I then got married, had a child and I was a bit concerned with how I was going to balance working in an office full-time and being a mom. A question I asked myself was, ‘Do I continue working or quit the job to raise my son?’ Thankfully, this wasn’t as decision I had to make as my team at WTW was supportive and helped me balance my work and personal life. Being a Business Support Specialist, WTW provided me with the necessary technical equipment and support which gave me the flexibility that I needed to work remotely and be at home with my son.
As my son got older, flexible working became even more important because I needed to be there for him on certain occasions, whether at school or at his myriad of sports games. Time flies, so I didn’t want to miss out on any of the special moments in his life. The most important thing in my life is family, and I believe it should come above all else. It’s critical, therefore, that my manager knows that which has been my experience at WTW.
When COVID hit, and schools were no longer in-person, there was no change to my work set up as I was already remote, so this was really beneficial for me. I was able to continue working comfortably, the same as I had been before the pandemic. Now that my WTW Work Flex is hybrid, and our offices are starting to open back up, I cherish seeing my colleagues in person and really enjoy going in. What I appreciate the most is that I am able to see what my diary is looking like, how busy I am that week then decide when works best for me to go into the office.
I feel very fortunate to work for an amazing company with such high regard for its colleagues’ work and personal lives. WTW has always provided me with the flexibility and tools I need to succeed in both and for that, I am very grateful.
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#MyWTW: How we manage our job-share role successfully at WTW
Emma Hanson and Katie Phillips, share both their experience, and thoughts on how to work effectively in a job-share role within Talent Acquisition.
Tell us a little bit about you and your role at WTW.
Emma: I joined WTW in June this year. Prior to this role, I worked in HR at Emirates in Dubai UAE. I was an expat for over 11 years before we relocated back to England in 2019, then Covid hit! Katie and I work in Talent Acquisition where we share a role as a Recruiter, focusing on the Corporate segment of the business.
Katie: I have been with WTW for almost 7 years. My fist role with the company was as a Recruiter for our Technology and Administration Solutions line of business which I did for five years. I then had an extended maternity leave break for 13 months and after having my baby, I decided I wanted more of a balance between being a mum and still continuing with my career. I spoke with my line manager and HR partner who fully supported my desire to return to work part time and it was then that the job share arrangement came to fruition.
How does this job-share work for you?
Emma: I currently work three days a week; Monday, Tuesday, and Friday
Katie: I work the other two days of the week: Wednesdays and Thursdays. This ensures that the full week is covered for our clients and stakeholders.
What is your current WTW Work Flex? (Remote, hybrid or in-office) How does this work for you?
Emma: We are very much hybrid, which I absolutely love. I usually work from home, but sometimes go into the office if something must be done in person, if myself and Katie have scheduled cross-over days booked in, or if I just fancy a change of scenery. I love the flexibility at WTW and being able to manage my own time and workload effectively.
Katie: I usually work one day at home and the other in the office as I enjoy the combination of both. It is great to be able to go into the office and have that face-to-face interaction with colleagues and stakeholders.
What does the flexibility of job sharing allow you to do, that you wouldn’t be able to do if you worked full time?
Emma: I have a very busy family, with two young boys, working three days a week gives me the ability (mentally and physically) to still be focussed on them while they are still young, but also still have a career in an area that I love. I get the best of both worlds. Working part time also allows me to do lots of volunteering at my children’s school which I’m very passionate about.
Katie: Working as part of a job share allows me to spend time quality time with my young son, but also continue in a career that I thoroughly enjoy. On my days off, I am able to take my son to toddler classes and spend time with other parents, which I feel is so key for both my son’s development and my own journey and development as a first-time parent. It is a fantastic mix of work and family life.
How do you ensure your tasks are done effectively?
Emma: Communication is absolutely key. Our managers and clients shouldn’t notice a difference dealing with either one of us; hopefully being on the same page at all times. We religiously do a handover to each other to ensure were both up to speed with projects as things progress.
Katie: Along with our regular handovers, we also ensure that we are both copied in on all emails so that we are both kept in the loop and there is no duplication of tasks.
How do you feel working at a company, that has enabled you to split your job role and responsibilities with another colleague?
Emma: I have strong views about flexibility in the workplace and the positive benefits that it brings. I was very happy to see such an excellent company and role aligned to this. With a job share partner, it gives great peace of mind to know that work is being taken care of on the days you’re not working.
Katie: I feel so grateful to have been given the opportunity to continue my career on a part-time basis, within a company that I really enjoy working for. It shows that WTW is an advocate for flexible working, which I feel is so important in an ever-changing and evolving employment market.
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#MyWTW: Becoming part of the High Performers Club
Willis Towers Watson India’s High Performers Club recognizes those colleagues who have made an outstanding contribution to our company’s growth while upholding our core values of teamwork, excellence, respect, client focus, and integrity.
Risk Management Analyst, Gautami Kamath, shares her experience on finding out she had been chosen to become part of the High Performers Club and how this has encouraged her to continue growing as a professional at Willis Towers Watson.
Where are you based?
I am based in Mumbai, India.
How long have you worked at Willis Towers Watson?
I’ve been at Willis Towers Watson for over six years.
What are you responsible for at Willis Towers Watson?
I am responsible for training the Know Your Client Team in performing quality checks and enhancing the due diligence of financial crime sanctions.
How would you describe your experience working at Willis Towers Watson?
My journey at Willis Towers Watson has been a growth story ever since I started. Every day has brought a new opportunity to learn and grow as a professional.
What is your proudest achievement since joining Willis Towers Watson?
In 2020 I became part of Willis Towers Watson’s High Performers Club, which recognizes colleagues in India that have made outstanding contributions to our company’s growth. Being part of the High Performers Club comes with a lot of joy and responsibility. We’re the flag bearers of our company’s core values, which I will proudly continue to role model in order to positively influence new colleagues.
What was your initial reaction when you realized that you had made it to the High Performers Club?
It definitely took a few minutes for the news to sink in and to truly comprehend that I had finally made it to the High Performers Club. I was very grateful to see that my hard work had been recognized in such a unique way. I also felt a mixed bag of emotions, particularly happiness, pride, gratification, and of course encouragement to continue delivering excellent work.
What do you think helped you become part of the High Performers Club?
I followed the footsteps of colleagues who were already part of the High Performers Club. They helped me to identify growth opportunities and showed me how to align my work with the vision of Willis Towers Watson.
Is there anyone you would like to thank or who was integral to your experience?
My parents! They have supported and inspired me to stay on my toes and make the most of opportunities at first sight. I am also grateful to my mentors at Willis Towers Watson. They have guided and coached me so that I’m able to excel at my responsibilities.
Would you like to share any positive feedback that you have received at Willis Towers Watson?
I felt incredibly honored when one of my senior colleagues commended my excellent work and out-of-the-box thinking. I’ve also received feedback from fellow colleagues praising my collaborative ways of working.
What is your favorite part about working for Willis Towers Watson?
The healthy, collaborative, and transparent work culture at Willis Towers Watson motivates me to give my best and challenge myself every day. Also, the never-ending learning opportunities and recognition of our colleagues’ efforts truly inspire me to go above and beyond in everything that I do.
When you’re able to find extra time in your role, what do you do to further your professional growth?
I spend my extra time expanding my knowledge and building my skillset by researching about the latest regulatory guidelines on anti money laundering and sanctions as well as reading financial crime journals. I also like to study from the rich source of knowledge available on the Willis Towers Watson Intranet.
Based on your experience, do you have a message for colleagues aspiring to get to the High Performers Club?
Align your efforts and work with the company’s overarching vision.
Learn more about our different roles and business areas here.
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#MyWTW: A Look Into My Life At WTW
Leonardo Araujo, Compensation Analyst, gives some insight into his career journey at WTW highlighting his hybrid work style and professional development
Tell us about your role at WTW and a little bit about your current work style?
I am a Compensation Analyst for the Executive Compensation and Advisory Board team in the São Paulo, Brazil office. I provide general assistance to the team in terms of short and long-term incentive survey designs for executives and institutional research within the area. With the pandemic improving, my work style has become hybrid, where I go into the office occasionally but spend most of my time working from home. I consider this style of work to be great because I get to spend more time with my family and less time on transportation. These benefits allow me to increase my productivity and improve my overall wellbeing.
How do you find working within a globally recognized company?
It is a great pleasure to be part of a company of this size. Having the opportunity to learn, socialize and share knowledge with great professionals in the field always motivates to give my best.
How have you developed, whether professionally or individually, during your time at WTW?
I’ve been at WTW since October 2021 and ever since I joined the company, I’ve been able to improve my knowledge and my professional skills. Every day is a different learning experience with my teammates and my professional evolution has positively affected my personal life. My development continues every time I have new experiences with my colleagues and leaders, which means I can learn more every day. WTW provides us with the tools necessary to increase our intellectual capital and here in Brazil, I was able to take a Compensation Practices course that helped in my development as well.
Tell us about a memorable experience you’ve had at WTW.
As soon as I started, I was very warmly welcomed by my colleagues. My arrival was announced during an online meeting with directors and consultants in the area, which made me feel valued and at home right away. This helped me get comfortable with the team so that I could fulfill my work obligations in the best possible way.
What is the best piece of advice you would give a future WTW candidate?
Make the effort and dedication to be part of this company. Here you will be respected, you will have autonomy in the workplace, and you will be part of a company recognized worldwide for the quality of its delivery and its colleagues.
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#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!
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#MyWTW: MY JOURNEY AS A WOMAN IN TECH
Soumya Kurup, technology leader, shares what it means to be a woman in a traditionally male-dominated industry and how she’s been empowered throughout her 20-year journey.
What is your role at WTW?
As a technology leader at WTW, I am responsible for driving innovative technology initiatives in India and bringing a seamless digital journey across the organization. My focus is to build, manage, and guide various teams focused on software engineering, application development, program delivery, testing, data, and analytics. I partner with technology leaders and product owners in India and other geographies on projects from inception to completion, to ensure success and deliver great outcomes.
Tell us about your personal journey as a woman in the technology industry.
I started my journey just like any other aspiring techie – one among many who were fascinated by its magic. As I moved ahead, I realized that many women were giving up on their careers too soon because they did not have enough support from their peers. Over the years, I have been presented with many equal opportunities. However, in the early days of my career, achieving certain goals as a woman seemed difficult due to a lack of inclusivity in the workplace. Since noticing this, I have always raised my voice and stood strong for what I believe in; to ensure a feeling of security and a sense of belonging for all. My past experiences are what make me so proud of the welcoming and inclusive culture at WTW. Unlike my previous employers, these values are embedded in everything we do. I believe that without supportive environments, organizations risk the loss of potential leaders.
How has WTW made you feel empowered throughout your career?
WTW has been like a cup of freshly brewed coffee. In the last two years, I have been empowered to make the right choices for myself and my team, leading to better service delivery. The trust my team has offered and the support I have received from my peers and leaders have helped bring out the best in me. The culture of collaboration, equal opportunities, and inclusivity has made me comfortable to request help when needed and ask questions. I consider myself fortunate to work for an organization that has such a great culture, and this has helped me broaden my thought process.
Describe the culture within the tech team at WTW.
Our team is driven by the One WTW principle – “When you get one of us, you get all of us”. We strive to break down barriers, advocate idea sharing and best practices, and motivate ourselves and each other to build capabilities for better business outcomes. WTW’s culture, reinforced by its values and principles, enables us to be as diverse yet as unified as possible. We advocate for a positive and supportive work environment that brings out the best in us and fosters an innovative and digital outlook.
Having close to twenty years of experience in the industry, what advice would you give to aspiring tech joiners?
Technology is like magic! It’s in everything that we do. So those who aspire to be in this industry will experience this magic firsthand. I urge all technology aspirants to have faith in themselves, take risks, fail fast, learn, and recover. You will always have a choice to go with the flow or try and make a positive difference. Your choices will help to build a world that will be relevant for us and future generations.
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#MyWTW: GLIDING FLUIDLY BETWEEN TWO GENDERS
“People are finally beginning to understand that no one asks to be different, and no one should be punished for discovering that they are. I have worth. I have a right to claim that worth. We all do.”
What was it like when you were growing up?
I grew up in the 60s in a small town in Oklahoma. Ever since I was aware of the world, I thought there was something unfinished about me; something was missing. As a child I could not accept that I was a girl – I was as tomboy as they come. Tomboys were expected to grow out of their boyish stage, but I never did. It wasn’t a stage for me, it was a reality. Small town customs told me being different was bad and, in that atmosphere, I didn’t realize acceptance was possible. I was so sheltered by my family that I didn’t know what homosexuality was until I was a teenager.
What challenges have you faced throughout your journey?
I thought I was just weird for not behaving like other girls my age, not realizing I was only parroting the social mores of the era. It didn’t occur to me that I might be one of those ‘different’ people. I always found reasons for not identifying myself as such because I was influenced by the prejudice of others. I didn’t mind being female exactly, but I had a hard time identifying with that gender. When I eventually married and had children – bowing to the pressure of social expectations – I was a good parent and loved my children, but I was a frankly unhappy spouse. Several years after the divorce I developed breast cancer, had surgery, and finally saw in the mirror what I always thought was right for me – not physically male, not automatically female, but the physical representation of male instinct and female intuition. I came to realize I was a Two-Spirit who glided fluidly between genders and hid my boyish proclivity for the sake of social order. I never should have had to hide it at all.
How have things changed for you over time?
The days of “he’s queer” or “she must be a dyke” are not entirely behind us now but the atmosphere and circumstances are so much more accepting than they used to be. People are finally beginning to understand that no one asks to be different, and no one should be punished for discovering that they are. When I first onboarded at WTW five years ago, I was asked what pronouns I preferred. I had never been given such an inclusive option before in any workplace, and I was delighted! Given the option at last, I originally preferred he/his/him but over time I realized that as a Two-Spirit, they/their was the more accurate. I think like a man, I laugh like a woman, and I express myself as a human being. I have worth. I have a right to claim that worth. We all do.
How has WTW made you feel welcomed to bring your true self to work every day?
I joined the WTW LGBT+ community and have never felt anything but welcomed at work. My colleagues make an effort to call me he/him or they/their, and even apologize if they slip up and use she/her. This is very kind of them, but I tell them that I am not offended as I accept both sides of my nature. The fact that they all try to make me comfortable means a great deal to me. I have never worked anywhere that is as inclusive as WTW is, and I have been working for many years in different occupations. In the WTW Denver office, a transwoman colleague told me she was a little hesitant before she first arrived at the office but realized on her first day that yes, she felt comfortable being her true self. Everywhere she looked, she saw things like little pride flags or rainbow-related items at workstations, bulletin boards with LGBT+ related event announcements – casual things at first glance, but they served to reassure her that she was in the right place.
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#MyWTW: Returning To Work After A Career Break
Ana Cristessa H. Nabuab, Quality Assurance (QA) Analyst, shares her insight into joining WTW after a career break.
Tell us a little bit about you.
My name is Ana Cristessa H. Nabuab. My colleagues call me AC. I am a Quality Assurance (QA) Analyst for the Global Document Production Team, supporting Health and Benefits for North America based in Manila, Philippines. After almost seven years into my career break and being a full-time mom, I decided to get back into the working world. WTW welcomed me with open arms and made me feel as though there had been no gap at all. I joined WTW as a contingent worker in September 2021 and was converted to a full-time colleague in December of the same year.
What was it like to join WTW after a career break?
To return to work after a career break was quite overwhelming. I had a lot of excitement and anxiety: it was definitely a rollercoaster of emotions!
I was a full-time mom for almost seven years and deciding to return to the corporate world was a real leap of faith for me, especially with not knowing what to expect and my fear of rejection.
I spent a long time looking for the perfect role, but then I got a phone call from WTW that made my heart jump, and I was offered the job as a QA Analyst. I enjoyed my time being a contingent worker. However, being converted to a full-time colleague meant achieving another career milestone for me.
Since joining, WTW has supported me in many ways. As a result, I have regained my self-confidence, eliminating all the fears that I had when I stepped back in to work.
How did you feel welcomed and supported by your colleagues when you joined WTW?
My colleagues at WTW welcomed me warmly. I was given all the support that I needed as I onboarded, complete with all the things that I needed to know about the company and the job role. In addition to this, there were a series of programs provided that embedded WTW’s company values that really resonated with me, not only as a WTW colleague, but also as an individual. It made me feel assured that there were a lot of opportunities for growth and development and that this is a great company to work for.
What is your favorite part about working at WTW?
My favorite part about working at WTW is how we, as colleagues, collaborate and work as a team to accomplish tasks. It has also made me realize that some things are much easier to accomplish when working as a team. I was shy at first, full of apprehension about myself; but in our team I am encouraged to speak out, participate and step out of my comfort zone. Everyone is encouraged to share their input and insight for every project. Day after day, I am encouraged to overcome my fears and be the best I can be. When I joined WTW, I was only able to meet my team virtually, but it was really fun, and it was great to be given the opportunity to work with a very hands-on, productive approach to tasks. As times are changing, I look forward to continuing to work and develop as a team in real life.
Do you feel WTW has an inclusive and diverse working environment?
The mere fact that I was given the chance to restart my career without judgment and was welcomed with open arms despite my long employment gap (which can be an issue for some companies), really gave me a sense of belonging. It gave me confidence that here at WTW, I am respected and valued, regardless of my age, my gender, my roles outside of work, or where I come from.
At WTW our teams are very diverse, allowing us to familiarize ourselves with many different cultures and to connect with colleagues all around the globe; I do not see or feel any biases at all. Here at WTW, our presence is more defined by our potential, what we can do and what we can contribute. For me, our diversity is what makes WTW a great place to work.
In what ways have you seen WTW live up to its company values?
We may have different personalities and perspectives, but our WTW values guide us to reach our goals and deliver quality output for our clients. Through collaboration and teamwork, we inspire each other to bring out the best ideas for every project assigned to us. Our work is fuelled with respect because we are encouraged to share and listen proactively. We are also provided with opportunities for professional development for us to always strive and commit to excellence because we value our clients’ trust, more than anything.
What I appreciate the most about being a WTW colleague is that the company values the importance of work-life balance. I feel like I am able separate my personal time and work with great encouragement from my superiors. We always look out for each other. Because of this, it makes me proud to be a part of WTW.
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#MyWTW: Completing an application and starting a new position virtually during lockdown
Head of Global Security Operations, Marvi Napoles, joined Willis Towers Watson a couple of months ago. Discover Marvi’s insights on starting a new job during lockdown and some great tips on completing online interviews.
How long have you worked at Willis Towers Watson?
I’ve been at Willis Towers Watson for just over two months.
What are you responsible for at Willis Towers Watson?
My team is responsible for ensuring the timely detection, triage and appropriate escalation of security events that might affect the availability, confidentiality and integrity of Willis Towers Watson’s data and systems.
How did you find the virtual recruitment process?
It started with one of our recruiters reaching out via LinkedIn who told me that Willis Towers Watson was looking for a Head of Global Security Operations based in the Philippines. Although I wasn’t looking to change jobs, the recruiter’s friendly and professional approach, along with Willis Towers Watson’s good reputation and culture, made me look into the opportunity and apply.
What did you like most about the recruitment process?
I was impressed with the level of detail and effort that recruiters put in to make me feel comfortable and ensure that the process ran smoothly. For example, I received timely and detailed communication about my interview schedule, interviewers’ names and technological specifications (since all the interviews took place virtually due to the lockdown).
I was also very pleased with the fact that my recruiter reached out regularly to let me know about the status of my application and next steps.
What would you recommend to a candidate who’s preparing for an online interview at Willis Towers Watson?
When you are invited to an online interview, you need to make sure that technology will be on your side. This means planning ahead:
- If your internet connection is stronger at certain times of the day, see if you can arrange your interview during that period, while bearing in mind the time zone of your interviewer(s)
- Check you have installed the required conference call software – this also includes checking that your audio and camera are working. Remember to pick a quiet, private place where you won’t be interrupted
- Join the interview a couple of minutes early – that way you’ll be able to check that everything is working and relax into your interview
Starting a new job can be a stressful experience. Did you have any concerns about starting a new role virtually?
I cannot deny the fact that sometimes starting a new job can be a bit stressful, particularly because we’re still adapting to the ‘new normal’. However, I was still very excited and enthusiastic. I was concerned about how teamwork and collaboration might be affected by starting a new role virtually. While I don’t think we can replace the benefit of interacting live in person, technology has empowered me and my colleagues to stay connected through video calls.
How do you stay connected with your team and other colleagues?
With the current situation, we have had to get creative about staying connected online. While normally team building activities with colleagues is something typically done in person, we have moved this to the virtual sphere. As well as being present on team catch ups and organizing one to one sessions with my colleagues, we have built a Microsoft Teams group where we share some of what we do outside of work hours. This has proven to be a great tool to find out about my colleagues’ hobbies and interests outside of work!
How was your first day and week at Willis Towers Watson?
The local HR and IT team managed to safely send to my home all the necessary equipment ahead of my first day. I also received a welcome package from the company with some helpful guides on how to get started and with some important contact information.
During my first week I focused on introducing myself to my team and to other colleagues around the globe. My manager was also very helpful and involved me in meetings that helped me dive into the work and understand our main priorities and projects. Even though I’m quite new within the company, what I love the most about working here is the opportunity we’re given to collaborate with different teams and meet colleagues from different business segments and parts of the world. These first couple of months have been exciting, different, and full of positive experiences. I’m looking forward to what the future will bring for me and my colleagues at Willis Towers Watson.
Learn more about our different roles and business areas here.
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Meet Willis Towers Watson’s 2020 HR Rising Star, Anna Stonelake
Every year Willis Towers Watson recognizes a colleague in the Human Resources (HR) function who has demonstrated exceptional growth potential in HR leadership and is a role model of our values. This recognition is given through the Gail E. McKee Memorial HR Rising Star Award, which was created to honor our colleague Gail E. McKee.
This year, the HR Rising Star Award recipient is Talent Advisor for Talent & Rewards, Anna Stonelake. Anna shares her experience on finding out that she had won and her insights on working at Willis Towers Watson.
What was your initial reaction to hearing you were nominated for and won the award?
It was a very surreal moment and one I will never forget! Our Chief Administrative Officer and Head of HR, Anne Bodnar, invited me to an online meeting to share the great news. I wasn’t aware I had been nominated (as this is the process for the HR Rising Star Award) so it took a few minutes to sink in. I felt very overwhelmed, humbled and honored that I had been recognized by my fellow colleagues. Since winning the award I’ve learned from different teams across Willis Towers Watson what a positive and inspiring impact Gail had on the colleagues she worked with, I am so glad her memory and legacy continues to be honored through this yearly award.
What are your interests or hobbies outside of work? Have you developed any new hobbies or interests since the onset of COVID-19?
I have two young children (four and six years-old) so they keep me very busy, but when I am not running around trying to keep them out of mischief, I enjoy renovating our house. It was built in 1903 and it hadn’t been touched for 30-40 years when we bought it six years ago. It has been a labor of love (and stress) ever since, but we are nearly there, just the garden to finish now!
Since the onset of COVID-19, I have a newfound appreciation for the outdoors. My family and I are lucky to live in a village with lots of countryside on our doorstep. My local gym has been shut on and off for most of 2020, and to counter this I now enjoy running three times a week and walking in the local woods at the weekend with the family. It’s surprising how sticks, mud, bikes and puddles can keep children entertained for hours, and fresh air really does help to clear your mind.
How has Willis Towers Watson supported you in unlocking potential in your career and development?
Since I joined Willis Towers Watson just over two years ago, I have been given opportunities to get involved in lots of different projects and initiatives across HR. I feel lucky to have such supportive colleagues to bounce ideas off, discuss challenges with and ask for advice. I have always been encouraged to try and improve the way we add value to the businesses we support and believe having this freedom and encouragement to think creatively has really helped me grow as a professional.
Gail E. McKee impacted the lives of many colleagues. Is there someone who has had an impact on your career, and can you describe how they have influenced your career growth?
It is very difficult to choose one colleague, within our HR function there are lots of strong female leaders based all around the world that inspire me. I have noticed over time that all have very similar leadership values: a strong work ethic, compassion, pragmatism, fairness and a positive energy which is very compelling.
If I had to choose one colleague, it would be our Global Talent Business Leader for Talent & Rewards and member of the Willis Towers Watson Global Inclusion & Diversity council, Suzanne McAndrew. Suzanne is a very inspiring leader and colleague. Her leadership style is open, positive, creative and direct, and through our interactions and partnership she inspires me to be a better version of myself professionally. I am always thankful for her feedback and insight.
I am also a strong believer that your support system outside of work impacts how you perform professionally. To that degree I think my husband has been amazing at supporting me to focus on my career and in helping me balance my personal and family commitments, especially in the past six months.
What do you think it takes to succeed in Human Resources at Willis Towers Watson?
Willis Towers Watson offers fantastic HR career opportunities if you have a positive attitude, strong work ethic, curiosity to learn, confidence and energy to question/challenge the status quo constructively. You also need to be a strong team player; in my experience you will not be successful if you try to do everything yourself, particularly when there are so many HR colleagues with a wealth of experience that you can reach out to for help and advice. The support network within Willis Towers Watson’s HR teams is fantastic, but you need to put the effort in to build your own network and always be willing to help one another out.
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