Celesta Lewis was not surprised when Booz Allen Hamilton made Working Mother magazine’s annual “100 Best Companies” list for the eighth time.
Lewis, a human resources manager, has successfully balanced work and home careers in part due to the company’s far-reaching initiatives. To qualify for the list, companies must be constantly evolving their polices to create flexible programs.
“The whole work environment at Booz Allen separates it from other companies,” Lewis said.
Lewis cites the company’s willingness to accept and incorporate diversity as one of its greatest attributes. “As a working mother,” Lewis said, “that is critical to my success.”
Booz Allen’s commitment to “work-life” programs affects the entire staff. The company has flexible work and teleworking arrangements as well as extended leave options. For example, two years ago, despite being on maternity leave, Lewis was promoted. Other employees have similar stories.
Booz Allen also boasts an on-site day care facility, Horizons. All of these factors contribute to the company’s perpetual spot on Working Mother’s list.
Its initiatives have fostered a motivated and loyal staff.
“I really love working here and truly believe that it is a great company,” Lewis said. “I’ve been here for three years and have no intention of going anywhere for a long time.”