5 Minutes With… Ellen Bly, Head of People Operations at Busy Bees

We took five minutes with Busy Bees’ Head of People Operations, Ellen Bly (pictured, above), to discuss the important topics in HR and People teams across the UK today…

Hi Ellen, tell us about yourself?

I joined Busy Bees a few months ago as Head of People Operations. My priority is to make Busy Bees a great place to work, to listen to what our employees want from their work and look after our people. We ensure our workplace benefits offer flexibility and inclusivity to all our employees. After all, it’s the people that make our business so it’s important we look after them.

On the subject of people, it’s a tough market to attract new talent. What are your thoughts on this?

We know that childcare is a tough gig but it’s hugely rewarding. However, it’s not just our industry that is facing challenges, so many sectors are going through it too. The market is tougher than it’s ever been.

What can employers do?  

We work in a highly competitive industry so it’s important to stand out from the crowd. It’s about offering great benefits and flexibility that are relevant to everyone. We understand and are led by our employees, meaning we offer employee benefits that matter.

How can employers retain parents following parental leave?

For many parents returning to work, they want a seamless return without the stress of worrying about the cost of childcare. According to a recent survey, 64% of parents are planning to leave their job due to increasing life costs and childcare costs.

For parents returning to work, the accessibility to and affordability of good quality childcare is so important. Subsidised childcare, back-up care options, and flexible working are all benefits that can give parents the support they need to return to work.

What other challenges do you think the UK market is facing?

Employees are faced with increasing pressure outside of work, now more than ever, it’s crucial that employers consider how we can support employee wellbeing, both financially and mental wellbeing and have access to tools and support for everyone.