Two years after my promotion to associate partner, I got married and had my first daughter. Until then, I eagerly supported multiple project teams and got actively involved in a lot of initiatives. If I put in late nights, that was my choice and it didn’t impact the quality of my personal life. However, when I came back to work after a nine-month maternity leave, I realized I needed more time at home to achieve the balance I sought.
I developed a working style that suited me and my family. It was only possible with the support of my colleagues, clients and family. My senior colleagues happily covered important client meetings I could not join because of family obligations. I coached and trained more junior-tenured members of my teams so they felt comfortable leaning in with clients when I could not be there. I received support from my professional development manager, evaluator and mentors to find local engagements, so I only traveled internationally on occasion. I heavily leveraged the Japan office's parental support benefits and resources, including firm-sponsored babysitters, and flexible leave time.
At the same time, I became more intentional about my own development. I focused on building my international network within McKinsey by working closely with colleagues from around the world, even though I was not traveling as much globally. I learned how to approach challenges in B2B sales that I brought back to my clients and contributed knowledge to our Marketing & Sales and Operations practices based on my experiences. This international group of mentors also created opportunities for me on internal research projects and some client engagements in my country.
I now have two daughters, ages three and five. My older daughter sometimes says she would like to have a cool job like mine when she grows up. Video conferences and traveling appeal to her! This re-assures me that the arrangement works and reconfirms my intentions to continue working flexibly until my daughters get a bit older.Learn more about roles in Japan
More about Yukari
I joined McKinsey more than 13 years ago. I love that, over time, I could specialize in an industry for which I have a true passion: B2B sales transformations in manufacturing. I have served more than 20 manufacturing companies in the past six years. Another great thing is that my colleagues are full of energy and motivation to learn new skills and take up new responsibilities. It is fulfilling to help other people develop and watch them grow.