Parental Leave Spotlight: Joshua La Rosa

How did you use your parental leave?

Given my role, I opted to split my parental leave in segments. This allowed me to spend the first five weeks at home, which was critical to support Naomi (my wife). But splitting my leave allowed me to manage my workload and stay connected to the business. Given the time of year my son was born, I chose to spend the Christmas period at home with Naomi and Nathan, which Custom Fleet were supportive of.

How did you learn that you could take flexible parental leave?

I found out we were expecting prior to the changes to Custom Fleet’s parental leave policy, so I first heard about this when it was announced to the business. I thought it was an AMAZING initiative and completely changed the view I had, both for parental leave and also the ability to attend prenatal appointments with Naomi.

What influenced your decision to take parental leave?

Obviously to spend the time with my son and wife. As a first-time father, I realised there is a lot more to having a baby, such as recovery for Naomi, and the additional workload that a supporting person needs to do. I couldn’t begin to imagine doing this while working full time.

What was your experience like during your flexible parental leave?

My experience was fantastic. Prior to taking parental leave, Custom Fleet provided me the option to communicate my expectations and the expectations of the business about how my leave was going to be taken. I got to decide how I wanted to stay engaged, which was great because it allowed me to opt in or out, depending on my role and how necessary it is to stay engaged with the business more broadly.

How did your wife feel about you taking parental leave?

Namoi said: “Having Josh home during those crucial moments brought us both immense happiness and relief, as it allowed us as first-time parents to navigate parenthood together. This is a time we both will cherish forever.”

What advice would you give to other men who are considering taking flexible parental leave?

I think we can all get caught up in the day to day of our role, and the intense workload. It’s just as important, if not more so, to take quality family time where you can. Not only to benefit yourself as a parent, but also for your return to work as it allows you time to recharge.

Can you share a memorable moment from your parental leave?

The mornings are usually hectic, with everyone running around to get the day started. I really enjoyed having the ability to spend quality time with my family and being able to be really present as a new parent.

Have you noticed any changes in your perspective on work-life balance or gender roles as a result of your experience with flexible parental leave?

No changes, but I must say I was shocked at how supportive the business was with taking parental leave and the flexibility I was offered. Custom Fleet was quick to action and support me when and where I needed. I felt cared about, and returning to work, it reinvigorated my passion for the business.

Studies show men who take parental leave are more likely to return to work an increased ability to multitask and be more empathetic leaders. What have you learned personally?

It’s definitely helped me take a more empathetic approach when working with others. You don’t always quite know what’s going on at work or personally, and to be more supportive and caring day to day, it has made me want to be more like that.

What do you believe we need to do to encourage more men to take an active role in parenting and consider flexible parental leave?

I believe as a society we’re heading down the right path around equal parenting and both parents taking active roles. Historically men have returned to work sooner based on leave policies, and parental leave payments etc. This change will bring out better and more empathetic co-workers and parents.

Studies have shown that expectations of men and women on parental leave still differs regardless of the time taken, do you believe this is the case?

I think so, but not in a negative way. As much as I do have an active role as a parent, I am still amazed at what my wife does. There’s more of an expectation on my wife than me to take advantage of longer-term leave.

Now that you have experienced taking parental leave, is this something you’d look for in an employer?

Definitely. Just like flexible working, parental leave is something I value just as much.