Sustainable
Maternity Leave & Return-to-Work Transitions
&BEYOND supports ambitious women throughout their maternity transition and works with future-ready organizations
to design structured, consistent, and sustainable parental leave processes.
Parental leave is a policy; returning to work is a transition
Most companies have strong parental leave policies.
But when it comes to navigating the transition itself, processes are often unclear and under-structured, leaving both returning parents and managers without the tools to navigate this critical career transition effectively, particularly during the return phase.
Our research revealed three recurring challenges
1. Policies are in place. Processes are missing.
Clear policies don't always translate into a consistent, well-supported experience.
2. Support prepares people for leave — but often stops at return.
The most critical phase of the transition is frequently where structured support ends.
3. Managers have the greatest influence — yet are rarely equipped.
Managers shape the day-to-day experience of returning parents, but often lack the guidance and confidence to lead this transition effectively.
A New Approach to the Maternity Transition
We developed the Motherhood & Leadership Framework™ to provide a structured approach that supports women and organizations through the four critical phases of the maternity transition:
1. Pre-leave - preparing the foundation
2. On leave - navigating the transition
3. Re-entry - reintegrating with clarity and confidence
4. Beyond - fostering leadership and career direction
Support that works at every level
A sustainable maternity transition requires more than individual support. It requires alignment between the organization, its managers, and the employees navigating the transition.
For Organizations
We work with HR and people teams, managers, and employees to close the gap between parental leave policies and their day-to-day implementation by creating the structures, processes, and capabilities organizations need to support maternity transitions consistently.
For Individuals
We offer dedicated one-to-one support to guide ambitious women throughout their maternity transition and set them up for success beyond return-to-work.
What our clients say
“Isabel, it was such a pleasure collaborating. The feedback from the participants of the workshop was wonderful, and I’m so glad we could create that space together.“
Tatiana, Harper’s Bazaar NL
“A session with Isabel feels like that first sip of coffee in the morning that sparks a burst of inspiration. She empowers you to step into your gifts; she challenges you to move past your edges, and gently shows you how to step into what you are truly capable of.“
Alex, US
“Isabel's coaching helped me so much in gaining clarity and purpose as I went back to work. She gave me the tools I needed to feel recharged and empowered as we planned together what my next months could look like.”
Mariana, Portugal
Let's get started
Every collaboration begins with a conversation. Book an introductory consultation to explore how &BEYOND can best support you.