About me
I'm Dr Caroline Millar (PhD, MCIPD), an HR professional, researcher, qualified coach and mother.
For almost 15 years, I worked in Learning and Development, supporting leadership and organisational development across a range of workplace settings. Following the birth of my first child, I experienced the challenges of returning to work after maternity leave and became curious about how organisations supported this transition. That curiosity led to my Master's dissertation researching maternity return experiences.
Inspired by the research process and aware of important gaps in knowledge, I went on to complete a PhD at Queen's Business School. My research explored how employment context shapes maternity return experiences, career outcomes and ambition.
I found that organisational culture plays a significant role in determining whether women feel supported to combine work and care. Too often, successful returns depend on individual circumstances or managerial goodwill rather than consistent organisational practice. I founded Amba Consulting to help employers create evidence-based return-to-work pathways that support talented employees during family formation. I also provide advice and support to working mothers navigating maternity leave and return-to-work transitions.
If you'd like to discuss how I can support you or your organisation, I'd love to hear from you.
