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"My paternity leave allowed me to be an equal parent raising my new-born daughter."

Benjamin, Senior Asset Manager at AXA IM Americas

We have asked some of our colleagues to share about their parental leave experience. Hear from Benjamin who took advantage of the 4-weeks paternity leave.

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How did you feel that you benefitted from this leave?

I was able to support my wife during the most critical time of her recovery after the birth of our daughter. I think this had a very positive effect on her mental state and general speed of her recovery.

How did your manager support you in this process?

My manager helped re-allocate my workload to other members of my team and assured me not to worry, allowing me to 100% focus on taking care of my family.

How did this leave allow you to play your role as a parent?

My paternity leave allowed me to be an equal parent raising my new-born daughter, and setting a good example for friends and family to do the same.

I was also able to be there for my daughter’s most critical moments early in life (first doctor appointments, setting a routine) that can be scary for one person to handle alone, even if they have help, there’s no substitute for an equal partnership.  

What advice would you give to your colleagues?

We are fortunate to work for a company that places a value on parental leave and overall work / life balance. I think it’s smart to take advantage of it.

Our stories

Why paternity leave matters for everyone

In our offices worldwide, we support parents to manage their careers with us whilst also managing the challenges of family life.

Read our story for more