Sarah DeSourdy Hastings

Working part time gives me more head space, which allows me to better show up for all of my roles.

As my children have grown older, I've found they need more of me, not less. I wasn't sure whether partnership and part-time work could coexist, but I knew I wanted to continue doing work that challenged and energised me. For me, success means having a career that is ambitious and fulfilling while also being present for the people and experiences that matter most.

Part-time work has not meant smaller opportunities. I continue to lead complex mandates, strengthen client relationships, develop future talent, and contribute to the profession at a senior level while working four days a week. It requires planning, communication – and, yes, flexibility (particularly in a transactional practice) – but it has also made me more deliberate in how I work, which I think has ultimately made me a better lawyer.

I also think visible examples matter. Seeing senior people work flexibly while continuing to do all of these things helps demonstrate that there is more than one way to build a successful career. I hope my experience helps demonstrate that there is no single blueprint for success. Senior part-time roles can be ambitious and effective – they are not about lowering expectations; they are about creating the conditions for people to do their best work, lead well and build sustainable, rewarding careers.