With two small children, and the job as Head of Commercial, Netball Australia, Marne Fechner knows what it’s like to keep many balls in the air.

Here’s her thoughts on being a Working Mother.

What’s the one thing you wish your organisation/industry offered working mothers?

I count myself fortunate that Netball Australia provides me with the flexibility to fulfil both my career and motherhood aspirations.

To be honest I can’t recall any request / proposal I’ve put forward being knocked back – additional leave, modified hours to enable school drop offs and pick-ups, working from home, the technology that supports working from home, and welcoming the kids into the office from time to time.  It all helps me juggle the diverse demands on my time.

Every mother’s needs / aspirations are different so my one ‘wish’ is for every organisation to provide the flexibility and support that enable women to contribute.

I’m also fortunate to be supported by my family and friends, but think that beyond organisation and industry, the issue of finding and funding the best childcare option for your children is a significant and challenging issue.

What’s the single most frustrating thing about being a working mother?

Lack of time and the constant juggling.  This is however a choice!

What changes have occurred in your workplace/industry (current or previous) to accommodate working mothers?

Under Kate Palmer’s leadership (CEO Netball Australia), I think our organisation has always fostered a flexible environment.  I think one of the most valuable attributes is a commitment to evolving that flexibility, so that it truly meets our individual needs.

If you could design your ideal role, what would it consist of?

The ideal role needs to align with each individual’s aspiration – although this isn’t always possible or practical, so it’s a bit of give and take.  Fundamentally for me paid maternity leave, flexi hours, in home child care and access to all levels of management, so a career pathway is manageable.