The 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.
This month, we are pleased to share insights from Kirstin Poirier-Whitley, Partner in the Los Angeles office of Jones Day.
Diversity & Flexibility Alliance: How have you made work-life control a priority and a success with your schedule? How have clients contributed to this?
Kirstin Poirier-Whitley: I’ve been working a flex schedule (75% over five days a week) since 2001 after I had my first child. I may work shorter days, but I am always available to meet client demands. If an issue or matter requires more hours in the office, then I make changes to my schedule to meet those demands. Working flexibly allows me to have a greater presence with my family. The firm has always supported my decision, and my schedule has not hindered my career advancement – I made partner while on a flex schedule. The firm also has fantastic technology in place that supports telecommuting. This has been another successful method of supporting work-life control for our attorneys. I have full access to my desktop in my home office.
My clients are aware of my schedule, and they know I am available for them. They have been extremely supportive and respectful of my time; our relationships work because we have a mutual respect of time management and our respective time constraints.