Tag Archive for: Saul Ewing

Flex Leader Award to be presented During Virtual Conference on November 3

Washington, DC (October 12, 2022) – The Diversity & Flexibility Alliance has announced that Jason St. John, Managing Partner of Saul Ewing Arnstein & Lehr will receive its 2022 Flex Leader Award. The Flex Leader Award recognizes an executive who is moving their organization toward a more inclusive workplace through holistic flexibility. The Award will be presented on Thursday, November 3 during the Alliance’s virtual annual conference Cultivating a Holistic Work Culture: The Power of People, Purpose & Productivity. Registration is available here.

Jason St. John is being honored for his passionate support for and unwavering dedication to offering flexible working options.  Jason’s compassionate leadership has been integral to the creation of Saul Ewing’s new hybrid working plan, 4+4, which applies to all employees, including attorneys and business professionals.

Understanding that the firm’s culture is built on relationships, Jason and firm leadership took the time to research best practices, benchmark data and gather input from firm members before launching their hybrid initiative. The 4+4 plan specifies that employees are expected to come into the office each Wednesday, in addition to four additional days per month. This extremely popular policy provides employees with the option to work from home all other days, allowing for each individual to work when and where they choose. Wednesdays have also been marked as “Zoom free” to encourage in person interactions on these days.

In addition to the 4+4 plan, Jason has championed the implementation of several other workplace flexibility initiatives including: extending paid parental leave to 16 weeks for all firm members; adding a one-month ramp up period after leave; as well as providing backup childcare, reimbursement for breastmilk shipping and more robust fertility benefits. Additionally, a staff tuition reimbursement policy and expanded gender transition services have been created.

“We have tried to craft a policy that allows for the greatest flexibility while still fostering the collaboration that fuels relationships, mentoring and trust,” said Jason St. John. “Our people appreciate the flexibility and know that the firm cares about their well-being. We believe that our 4+4 Plan is fostering the kind of engagement, connection and collaboration that translates into outstanding client service,” he added.

“Under Jason’s leadership, Saul Ewing has created an excellent hybrid working plan that provides all of its employees with flexibility and autonomy, while maintaining its excellent client service,” said Manar Morales, President & CEO of the Diversity & Flexibility Alliance.  “By offering the same options to both attorneys and business professionals, Jason has created a more inclusive and equitable culture. We are proud to recognize this inspiring and empathetic leader as a trailblazer in the legal community,” she added.

The Diversity and Flexibility Alliance is a think tank that collaborates with organizations to develop non-stigmatized flexible working policies that promote inclusive cultures and help to advance more women into leadership positions. The Alliance provides practical research-based solutions, training workshops, and strategic advisory services that increase organizational effectiveness through diversity and flexibility.

Contact: Manar Morales

manar@dfalliance.com

202-957-9650

Our Spotlight on Flex showcases professionals from member organizations who exemplify personal and professional success while working a flexible schedule. Their stories illustrate the long-term benefits that flexible schedules offer to both individuals and organizations.

For February 2019, we are pleased to share insights from Andrea BrockwayCounsel, Saul Ewing Arnstein & Lehr (Philadelphia, PA).

Diversity & Flexibility Alliance: How have you made flexibility a priority and a success with your career? How has the firm supported this?

Andrea Brockway: I started at the firm as a full-time litigation associate in 2008 after graduating from Temple Law School. In late 2010, I switched to a reduced hours schedule after the birth of my first child. The firm had a formal flex policy in place when I asked to reduce my hours, and my request was approved. Since switching to flex eight years ago, I’m now the proud mother of four children and have maintained a successful litigation practice representing clients in higher education and white collar criminal defense. The firm and my colleagues have always been supportive of my flexible work arrangement because they trust I’m going to complete the work and do it well.As a litigator, my work and deadlines vary day to day, but I try to block off Fridays to focus on my family. Even though the nature of litigation doesn’t always fit that schedule, my flex hours enable me to decline non-essential meetings scheduled on Fridays. My coworkers understand because they know I’ll always attend to my work commitments on time.

When it comes to flex, it’s not just the reduced hours, but it’s also the flexible work environment that’s been helpful for me. The firm has been very supportive of me working remotely where feasible. This locational flexibility allows me to save on commute time and also affords me the ability to work before/after traditional office hours.

I make flex a priority through communication and organization. All of my commitments are calendared – whether it’s a court deadline or bringing Valentine’s Day treats to my pre-schooler’s classroom. Everything is scheduled, and I’m available via my cell phone or email. I recently started using an app called iTimeKeep to help me stay organized and on top of my commitments. It’s been extremely beneficial for my time management and prioritizing tasks throughout the day.

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We are pleased to welcome Saul Ewing LLP as the newest member of the Alliance! The firm joins a community of over 60 leading organizations that are implementing innovative solutions to promote inclusive and flexible work cultures.

 

 

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