Proud to be Part of the Village: Supporting Smucker Parents

In order for us to execute business successfully, we must first recognize that our employees bring with them an array of passions, interests, relationships and experiences that help shape and define how they show up in their careers. Then, we must support these dynamic identities by providing our people with the resources they need to show up to work present, authentic and well—mentally, physically and emotionally. 

Each of our employees holds many titles other than the one associated with their role within our organization. Among the many important roles our employees play are mother and father. One way we have committed to supporting the unique needs of Smucker parents—for the first time, the second time and beyond—is by offering paid Parental Leave and giving our people dedicated time to spend with those that matter most to them.  

This time is intended not only for bonding, but for healing, learning and settling into new routines. It is intended to give new parents an opportunity to fully immerse themselves in this exciting new chapter of their lives and ensure they focus on themselves and their families.   

One of our employees—Ashley McCool, mom of two and Digital Activation Lead at Smucker --recently shared about her personal experience during maternity leave. In addition to our appreciation for the positive experience we had, we also felt it perfectly encapsulated the desire we have for supporting every new parent.   

During my maternity leave, I thought I was going to be incredibly “productive.” After all, I’m the type of person who doesn’t sit still very well... the kind of person that finds a way to be productive on a sick day. I dreamt about doing everything I could while the baby slept... catch up with friends during lunches, visit family and check out a few new local spots. Yet, none of those things happened.   
 
After having our first daughter Rorie in 2018 while working with another company, I was back to work around 10 weeks—exhausted and still recovering among many other changes that come with being a new parent. This time, with more than double the maternity leave available, I had the gift of time with our newest daughter, Dylan. Yet I found myself again expecting something different. It’s funny how you can forget how challenging taking care of an infant and postpartum recovery can be. 
 
But what did I do differently this time around? This part I’m proud of: With this gift of time, I found myself establishing better habits and routines that have set me up for success for when I do return to work to be the very best me: well-rested (as much as you can be with an infant), strong (physically and mentally with daily exercise habits) and energized. 
 
My time on parental leave has allowed me to return to work rested and ready. I spent my time away from work pouring into the best projects I can think of— me, my daughters and our family. 

While we are proud to offer this benefit, we also strongly believe that supporting working parents shouldn’t stop when they return to work.  

The transition back to work can be a complex and unique experience for employees. That’s why we offer benefits, support services and resources to ensure employees are successful as they navigate this transition and, ultimately, in their roles as professional and parent.  

It is often said that it takes a village to raise a child. As an employer, we consider ourselves a part of that village—the part that provides time, support and care to parents during the incredible seasons of transition that surround welcoming a new child.