Jo Taylor & John Pyle - International Careers & Parenthood: How to Thrive When Pursuing a Global Career and Raising a Family

Ever wondered what it takes to build a successful international career while raising young children - without family support nearby?

In the latest episode of Big Careers, Small Children, Verena Hefti MBE chats with our first-ever father-daughter duo: Life Sciences Consultant Jo Taylor, who currently resides in Switzerland, and her father, John Pyle, who spent 35 years in the oil industry.

Both John and Jo have pursued global careers in senior leadership roles while navigating the challenges of parenting in different countries. Jo also brings a unique perspective as both a parent and a child who grew up moving across countries, offering insight into how the experience has evolved across generations.

They share their personal experiences, the realities of raising a family abroad, and the strategies that helped them balance professional growth with family life.

If you’re considering working internationally or are already managing career and parenting across borders, this episode offers invaluable insights, practical advice, and a challenge to the common assumptions about what’s possible.

Together They Explore:

• How to handle worries or guilt about the impact of travelling with work or moving abroad on your children.
• Simple ways to signal to employers you're ready for a global role.
• How working internationally can make you a stronger, more flexible and resilient leader.
• The challenges and adjustments of relocating as a family, including the impact on the travelling partner.
• Why an international career can be life-changing and deeply fulfilling.

What You'll Learn in this Episode:

How to Build a Global Career as a Parent – Insights on pursuing senior leadership roles internationally while raising young children, including how to signal interest to your employer.

Strategies for Thriving Without Family Support – Practical advice on managing childcare, work-life balance, and building a support network abroad.

Lessons in Resilience and Adaptability – How to navigate cultural differences, career transitions, and unexpected challenges while raising a family overseas.

Practical Tips for Parents Considering an International Move – Key factors to consider before relocating, from schooling to workplace culture and family dynamics, including the impact on your children and partner.

5-Minute Actions to Start Your International Career Journey – Practical, quick steps you can take today to explore opportunities and prepare for a global career move.

Show Notes:

• Connect with Jo Taylor on LinkedIn.
• Learn more about the Leaders Plus: Big Careers, Small Children podcast and explore additional resources at leadersplus.org.
• Follow Leaders Plus on LinkedIn, Instagram, and Bluesky.
• Connect with our CEO, Verena Hefti MBE on LinkedIn.
• Find out more about the work of Leaders Plus by signing up to our Newsletter.