Empowering employees starts at home: E&S introduces new child leave program.

graphic of an adult and child holding hands with hearts

At E&S, we know that time away from work is time well spent (especially when it’s with family). That’s why we’re excited to introduce a new child leave program that allows our employees – both birthing and non-birthing alike – the opportunity to take a fully paid leave of absence to be with new family members. This new program reinforces our efforts to create a nurturing and inclusive workplace that values the well-being of all employees.

Far surpassing the current industry standards for child leave, E&S employees welcoming a new child into their home will be able to take fully paid leave—eight weeks if employed for less than a year and 12 weeks when employed for one year or more. The comprehensive program also extends to parents whose families are formed through adoption, surrogacy, child placement or foster care.

After being appointed as the agency’s President and CEO, Leanne Prewitt knew that implementing an inclusive child leave program would effectively communicate to employees that their employer supports them 100%.

“We firmly believe in creating an environment where everyone – including our families at home – feels valued and supported,” said Prewitt. “Whether you’re the birthing or non-birthing individual, if you’ve been at E&S for one day or ten years, you deserve this important time away from work to be with your growing family without having to worry about income.”

Sadly, not everyone has the opportunity to take time off during this pivotal life event. A survey conducted by the Society for Human Resource Management found that more and more organizations have actually dialed back on paid parental leave opportunities since returning back to “normal” operations post-pandemic. Since 2020, organizations that offer paid maternity leave has dropped to 35% (from 53%) and those offering paid paternity leave decreased to 27% (from 44%).

“We’re proud to offer a child leave program that supports all family structures,” said Brittany Wozny, chief financial officer at E&S. “Welcoming a new addition to your family is an incredible experience and we only hope that more companies see the importance of supporting employees this way – because frankly, it’s the right thing to do.”

To learn more about how we’re empowering our employees, please visit https://ervinandsmith.com/careers/

Leanne Prewitt

President & Chief Executive Officer

Shaped by her background in creative direction, Leanne leads the agency’s culture and creative vision and also oversees the operations that allow a team of marketing, design and media specialists to create powerful and effective work for their client partners.

Leanne began her professional career in New York City working for some of the nation’s leading agencies. In 2016, after a five-month sabbatical around the world, she returned to her hometown and joined Ervin & Smith. Her global perspective and expanded professional experience influence the work she does today.