Balancing the demands of a career while nurturing a growing family can often feel like a high-wire act without a safety net. However, at SAS—a company consistently celebrated for its employee-friendly environment—parenthood does not entail sacrificing career aspirations. SAS has introduced a suite of initiatives designed to ease the stress of parenting, offering on-site childcare, a generous childcare subsidy, family-friendly programs, and flexible workplace policies.
In this blog post, we will delve into the inspiring story of Casey Hensley, an HR Business Partner at SAS, who experienced this supportive environment while transitioning to motherhood. Let’s explore how SAS facilitated her journey and what this means for other working parents.
Casey’s Journey to SAS and Motherhood
Growing up in the vibrant Triangle area, Casey always had her sights set on SAS due to its stellar reputation as a top employer. Reflecting on her career aspirations, she noted, “Working at SAS was my dream.” When an opportunity that matched her qualifications opened up, she did not hesitate to apply, scoring the job of her dreams. But in a delightful twist of fate, she learned she was expecting her first child, Ada, the same month she stepped into her new role.
Understandably, this created a bit of anxiety for Casey. “I was nervous to inform my new manager that I would need to go on maternity leave so soon,” she admitted. However, her fears were swiftly alleviated when her team responded with immense support and excitement. “Everyone was so congratulatory! They even threw me a baby shower, which meant a lot to me as a newcomer. It showed me that SAS valued me beyond just being an employee.”
Support Every Step of the Way
Fast forward to Ada’s arrival; she came into the world a bit earlier than expected. After a five-day hospital stay, Casey transitioned into a remarkable 16 weeks of fully paid maternity leave, which allowed her to bond with her newborn without the looming pressure of work. “SAS’s generous leave policy took almost all the stress away from becoming a new parent,” Casey recounted. “My team consistently reminded me to focus on Ada. I felt supported every step of the way.”
One standout feature of the SAS experience for Casey was the exceptional care provided through the SAS Health Care Center (HCC). Shortly after Ada was born, their pediatrician and lactation consultant met them at the HCC for Ada’s first appointment. “Having personalized, immediate care so soon after Ada’s birth brought me immense peace of mind,” Casey noted.
The convenience and comprehensive care offered at the HCC played a pivotal role in Casey’s early days as a first-time mom. She appreciated how accessible the facility was, mentioning that “they helped track Ada’s growth weekly to ensure she was on the right path.” The best part? Services at the Health Care Center were completely free for employees on SAS’s PPO plan, making it a financial blessing in addition to a caregiving one.
Embracing the #saslife
Today, baby Ada accompanies Casey on her daily commute to the SAS campus, where she benefits from the company’s on-site daycare operated by Bright Horizons. “The childcare subsidy provided by SAS is incredible. Knowing I can walk over and check in on her at any time gives me tremendous peace of mind,” Casey explained.
Flexibility is another cornerstone of the SAS experience. With policies like unlimited sick time and generous PTO, Casey feels genuinely supported in her dual roles as an employee and a mother. “If you’re venturing into parenthood, there isn’t a better place than SAS,” she said. “When I’ve needed to take Ada to her appointments or pick her up when she’s unwell, there’s never been any hesitation. It’s always, ‘Your family comes first.’”
For Casey, the support at SAS extends beyond just childcare or maternal benefits; it fundamentally affects her overall well-being. “I’ve never worked at a company that values its employees as much as SAS does,” she remarked. “There’s a deep-rooted trust here, aligning with our CEO Jim Goodnight’s philosophy that if you treat people well, they will contribute positively.”
The reality for Casey is one of harmonious balance—SAS enables her to thrive as both a career-oriented individual and a devoted mother. “At SAS, I don’t have to choose between having a family and pursuing my career. I can have both, and that is priceless.”
Conclusion: SAS’s Commitment to Empowering Parents
Casey’s journey serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of supportive workplace environments in today’s fast-paced world. SAS’s ongoing commitment to employee well-being, especially for parents, has earned the company recognition as one of the best places to work for families.
We thank Casey for sharing her inspiring story, which highlights how companies like SAS can transform the experience of new parents. For those curious about the #saslife or looking for job opportunities at a company that champions family values, dive deeper into our culture or explore available roles. It’s a unique environment where you can thrive both personally and professionally, ensuring that you never have to compromise on either.
