Dave, a Management Consultant and Karen, a Freelance Management Consultant from Milton Keynes have two daughters aged 12 and 10. Both Dave and Karen work full time and have tried a number of different working scenarios - constantly evolving. Having tried unsuccessfully with an au pair and nursery, they are now supported at home by a full time house keeper and nanny. Their children are at school. Although they spend a considerable sum on childcare, they feel that it has been a worthwhile investment because if the children are happy and well looked after, they can better focus on their jobs. They both feel extremely fulfilled by their careers and their personal achievements. They have found that having children has increased the pressure on their work in terms of time management, but agree that the more senior they have become, the more able they have been to influence their days, for example they both try to work from home one day per week. Karen is able to see the girls most evenings, and can give them their tea approximately 3 evenings per week. They believe that as they have got older, their children understand and respect their jobs and they are confident that they all have good relationships. They believe their success is based on having an effective partnership - they review how things are working on a weekly basis and actively work through solutions together.