At OCBC Group Audit, we believe careers are marathons, not sprints. That’s why we’ve built a workplace culture that supports our people through every stage of their professional and personal journeys—including the moments when they need to pause, reflect, and recharge.

A Culture That Supports You at Every Stage of Life

For Melissa Woo, Head of Consumer Banking Audit, taking a career break wasn’t just about stepping away from work, it was a transformative experience that helped her reconnect with her family, herself, and her purpose.

After nearly two decades of pouring herself into her career, Melissa took three-month career breaks twice to support her daughters during their PSLE preparation. But her time away became much more than academic support, it became a journey about emotional connection, being present, and rediscovering balance.

During her break, she helped her daughters manage stress, supported their emotional well-being, and created lasting memories. From extended mealtimes and quiet walks with her husband to a long-awaited trip with her ageing parents, Melissa used her break to nurture relationships and create lasting memories. She also explored new forms of exercise, deepened her spiritual life, and served more actively in her church.

Taking Time Off, Without Falling Behind

At OCBC, employees with at least five years of service are eligible to take career breaks. Whether it’s for caregiving, personal growth, travel, or simply to take a breather, our policies are designed to ensure that taking time off doesn’t mean falling off the career ladder.

For Melissa, openness and proactive communication laid the foundation for a successful break. She began preparations a year in advance, giving her team time to adjust and plan ahead. 

Melissa’s managers didn’t just approve her leave, they helped reassign projects and constantly reassured her. Her peers also stepped up even when it wasn’t part of their portfolio.  With the support from her colleagues, Melissa had a smooth transition into and out of her career break. 

Here, employees returning from career breaks are welcomed back with open arms and a clear path to reintegration. Melissa’s experience reflects the broader culture at OCBC, one that values well-being as much as performance. Managers and divisional heads are open and supportive, often reshuffling responsibilities to accommodate career breaks, even in last-minute situations.

A Workplace That Values You

We see career breaks not as interruptions, but as investments in our people. Employees often return with fresh perspectives, renewed energy, and a deeper sense of purpose.

Our managers are equipped to support these transitions, and our HR team works closely with returning employees to ensure a smooth and meaningful comeback. It’s all part of our commitment to building a workplace where life and work can truly coexist.

Melissa’s journey is a testament to how career breaks can restore the soul, and how OCBC empowers our people to thrive both at work and at home.

Why Join OCBC?

If you’re looking for a company that sees you as a whole person and not just a job title, OCBC is the place for you. We’re proud to offer:

• Flexible career pathways, including sabbaticals and extended leave options
• Supportive leadership that values your growth
• A culture of care, where your well-being is a priority

Melissa’s story is a powerful reminder that taking time for yourself isn’t a luxury, it’s a necessity. At OCBC, we’re proud to offer a workplace where you can grow your career without losing sight of what’s truly important.