Working at Spark has helped me thrive as a professional and as a parent – Claudia Lopez, Customer Experience Chapter Lead – Spark NZ

When I started at Spark, I was drawn to the role, the people, and the purpose – to help all of New Zealand win big in a digital world. But it wasn’t until I became a parent that I realised how much more Spark had to offer – not just as an employer, but as a genuine supporter of my life outside work.

When I was expecting my first child, I was nervous about how I’d juggle everything. But Spark’s parental leave package, Whakapuāwai, took so much pressure off. As the primary carer for our daughter, I received 26 weeks of full pay, Spark kept contributing to my KiwiSaver, and when I returned to work, I eased back in with 80% hours on full pay for three months – so I was able to work 4 days while being paid for 5. That made a massive difference to both my confidence and my daughters transition to daycare.

What really stood out though was the support I received before and after taking parental leave. My wonderful Chapter Lead has been so supportive and caring during this transition, and I had access to a parents’ network at Spark where I could connect with others in the same boat.

Being a working parent means curveballs. Whether it’s needing extra time off for family trips or just a bit more balance, Spark’s purchased leave (where you can purchase up to two weeks extra leave, paid off in your fortnightly pay over 12 months) and flexible work options give me the space to make work work for my family.

Knowing we’re covered with medical insurance through Southern Cross, including things like major surgery and even counselling sessions if we need it, takes a lot of worry out of the equation. And Spark also provides life insurance cover and income protection at no cost to us. That’s something I never really thought about before having a family, but it means a lot now.

Working at Spark has been more than just a job, it’s been a place that supports me as a parent, as a partner, and as a person. The true flexibility of working at Spark has helped me not only stay in the workforce but grow in my career while also raising my family.

If you’re looking for a workplace that understands what balance actually means, I can honestly say: Spark’s got you.

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