Name: Ann Jones
Age: 38
Children: Two ? Emma, 9 and William, 4.
Job title: Managing director of UK subsidiary
Company: Lowendal Masai (global operational cost optimisation company)
Annual turnover: ?3million

What was the motivating factor in becoming MD of a business?
Since I was a young girl I have always wanted to be the MD of a company. I chose to study in the States as I believed that the US was the land of opportunities and hence would get me to my goal. Well, as it turns out the opportunities presented to me were all in Europe. Pierre Lasry, CEO of LowendalMasai, inspired me. He was in his mid twenties at the time. His recent successes and the story of the future of LowendalMasai (previously known as Lowendal Group) made his offer to join the company irresistible. So together we decided to open up the UK subsidiary.

What are the best bits about working again?
I never stopped working. I had my kids then came back to work after three months. I do make sure, though, that I do not miss anything important to do with the kids. Continuing to work gives me the balance I need between being a mum and a businesswoman. I love to do all the evening events with the mums from school, but I equally enjoy all the business dinners.

Ann Jones, mumpreneur, Lowendal Masai

Managing a business can be a mixed bag sometimes. What have been you highs and lows so far?
It?s difficult to pinpoint highs and lows over the past 15 years, but I think the best part has been seeing LowendalMasai?s growth in the market. The referrals and testimonials we received from clients definitely made a difference to our enthusiasm and dedication. The addition of new products to our portfolio has been a real highlight, making LowendalMasai the largest global cost optimisation consultancy in the world.

Low points: The Buncefield fire destroying our office, and the subsequent damage to our business.

What is available to mothers now that you wish you had access to when your family was young?
To be honest, there is nothing I can think of – other than maternity clothes are much better now!

How have you managed to stay on top of your career with the demands of motherhood?
It has not been easy and I would not have been able to manage if I did not have the support of a great family. I try not to work on weekends and choose very carefully which meetings I attend, especially if they are abroad. I have to prioritise and am very aware of my limitations.

GOSH

What has been the high point along the way?
The high point has always been the interaction with all the different people. Our business is made up of people at all levels. I value what each person brings to the business as it is crucial for building a sustainable future.

What is your worst experience along the way?
The worst experience has been dealing with nannies and aupairs. My mum looked after my daughter for nearly five years, but when I had my son she couldn?t cope. I had my first nanny for three years. In the past year and a half I have had four different nannies/au pairs. It has been extremely stressful.

Any tips for expectant mums, or mothers who feel that you can’t have a successful career and a happy family life at the same time?
If you can get your childcare right then everything becomes easier. With many more young people being promoted to top jobs today, I believe that the management are much more understanding of the needs of parents with young children. Working life is much more flexible today to help mothers cope. It?s always worthwhile trying to balance work and family life if that is what you feel would be best for you. An unhappy mum at home is perhaps not the best environment for the family.

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