This Mother’s Day we would like to introduce you to two of our amazing mums in the Sydney office.
Ashleigh (Ash) is Junior Executive Assistant in the Assurance & Advisory division and a proud mum to her four year old daughter, Iyla. Wenting is an Assistant Manager in the Corporate Tax team and has two beautiful children. While Ash has been with the firm nine months, Wenting joined HLB more than four years ago, yet she just returned from maternity leave after welcoming her second child.
Although their roles are very different, both Ash and Wenting bring valuable insight on the joys and challenges of balancing work and family. We asked them to share how HLB Mann Judd has helped them focus on the moments that matter most.
How has being a mother influenced or shaped you in your professional role?
Ash: Becoming a mum has shaped the way I approach my professional life. Juggling work and family teaches you very quickly how to prioritise what’s important. It’s also made me a more empathetic and understanding colleague. I’ve learned to appreciate different perspectives and be more flexible when things don’t always go as planned. Overall, it has helped me grow both personally and professionally, making me more driven but also more mindful of creating a healthy balance for myself.
Wenting: Motherhood has definitely strengthened my skills at work — especially in patience, empathy, time management and communication. It helped me become a better mentor and team player. I value HLB’s supportive culture even more now.
Have you benefitted from HLB’s flexible working arrangements?
Ash: The flexible hours allow me to adjust my schedule when needed — whether it’s attending school events, managing daycare pickups, or simply being there for important family milestones. It’s made a real difference in creating a more manageable and fulfilling work–life balance.
Wenting: The flexible working arrangements at HLB have made a huge difference. Since returning, I’ve been working part-time, three days a week, which allows me to balance work and family life. The ability to work from home and have flexible hours has really helped me transition smoothly back into my professional role.
What does balance look like for you?
Ash: Family time is incredibly important to me. We love spending weekends at the park, making Iyla’s favourite pancakes, and more recently, enjoying time at the movies! I also love to stay active by doing Pilates 4 – 5 times a week, and I play netball on Saturdays. When I’m not running around with Iyla, you’ll find me catching up with family and friends.
How was your return to HLB after maternity leave?
Wenting: HLB was incredibly supportive — both from my team and the wider firm. Having understanding colleagues and a flexible structure made it easier to navigate the changes that come with being a working mum of two!
Any advice for your colleagues who are adding to their family?
Ash: It’s such an exciting and, at times, overwhelming journey. Trust yourself and take it one step at a time! Take the time to truly enjoy those special moments with your family, and remember that with the right planning, support, and open communication, balancing career and family life is possible.
Wenting: Give yourself grace. It takes time to adjust, and it’s okay to lean on the support around you – both at home and at work. Also, don’t hesitate to take advantage of the flexible policies that are there to help you.
If you could receive any gift this Mother’s Day, what would it be?
Ash: A spa day followed by a high tea!
Wenting: A quiet day to relax. Maybe a spa visit would be nice.