In conversation with Natalie Rea

1. Introduce yourself.   

Hi, I'm Natalie Rea and have been working in the world of content and video production for over 20 years.  I am currently returning to the UK after 3 years in Australia for family reasons.  I am blessed to have two beautiful (and crazy) little boys, Leo 9yrs and Noah 6yrs.  Life is a juggle and the mental load is real but it’s never dull!!! Wouldn't have it any other way.

2. What is your job title?

Content Studio Director

3. Who looks after the kids when you are working?

School and After school care each day. We don't have family near us to rely on to help. My husband and I juggle the pick-ups and drop-offs, he has a more flexible job so is able to get to school more than me.  It helps a lot when work is busy but of course, I would love to be there more.  

4. How long did you take off work after having your baby?

One of my biggest regrets is after my first son I went back to work after 4 months.  I was made to feel this is what was needed to "keep my job".  This was nine years ago and the world has changed but there is still a long way to go for women to feel secure on maternity leave and on their return from maternity leave.  For my second son my husband and I decided to take the full 12 months, and he didn't work for part of it so we could spend time as a family.  We planned for this financially and are so happy we did it.  

5. Would you say that you have a good work/life balance? 

Flexibility for working parents still has a long way to go.  Currently, I have a very supportive boss who understands the value of being at important events and being there when your children need you however this industry can be very demanding and it’s not slowing down.  I think it’s extremely important that we are strong and apply boundaries, it’s not easy but work will always be there, however, those years when our children are growing won't be.

6. Are you job-sharing or working flexibly?

No

7. What do you think is the hardest part of being a working/industry parent?

Trying to remember I'm not failing.  I'm not failing at work nor am I as a Mother but the feeling of never doing either perfectly is always there.  It is of course not true and I hope the more that working parents talk about how hard the juggle is the pressure will lift.

8. What are your tips for any other women out there wanting to have kids and keep a career in film?

It's of course possible and being a mother is the biggest blessing in the world.  It’s not easy and the hardest job in the world but set boundaries, lower expectations all around and most importantly be kind to yourself.  You will be doing an amazing job!

9. Any advice for anyone about to return to work after maternity? 

Believe in yourself.  It isn't easy to come back from nappies, baby food and lack of sleep. But the biggest advise I would give is to speak up.  If you aren't getting the support or the treatment you deserve then speak up.  Both times I returned from maternity leave I was discriminated against and I didn't say a word I actually thought I should apologise.  New mothers deserve to be nurtured at home and at work.

10.  What advice did you wish someone had given you? 

Never feel guilty or apologetic for having a child or taking whatever time you need when you have them.  It is a massive deal, physically, mentally, and emotionally and should never be taken lightly, take care of yourself.