Rupert Brown is an international Chief People Officer with 25 years HR experience including 15 years living and working in Europe, Asia and the Middle East. Married to Helen who has her own HR career and father to 2 sporty teenagers studying A-levels and GCSEs.
After 6 international relocations with Procter & Gamble, Maersk and private equity-backed businesses, the decision was taken to return to the UK to give the children stability through secondary school and a chance for everyone to rebuild connections with their native UK. Now living in Berkshire and regularly commuting to London working on change and transformation programs most recently for Virgin Media O2.
Rupert is a coach and mentor to professionals pursuing international careers, considering that promotion or next career step and how to do it all with a family. Also with experience from the other side of the table - when organisations conduct global talent reviews deciding who should be on the succession list and what factors (real or perceived) can get in the way.
Best piece of advice to juggle family life and a professional career:
I always tell expecting fathers how important it is to start with the right intentions – take your parental leave, bond with your baby and be present when you are at home. And don’t hide your new responsibilities from your employer. As they grow, look for opportunities to connect, if that can be over something they are passionate about you will have found a habit that rewards you both. If there is a community associated with that then great – you’ll need social interaction !
Remember your other family roles too – husband, son, brother, uncle…the balance needs to constantly adjust.
