Returning from mat leave to a lower ranking post

[NeedMenInWhiteCoats]

Hi All,

I am heading back to work after 12 months of maternity leave to a job that ranks one grade lower than the one I left, same T&Cs. I am very lucky that work have agreed to my flexible working request and given me the days back that I asked for, in every way they have been flexible.

The question that is lurking at the back of my mind is, if I am not able to make my new role valued in the eyes of the company, up to the pay grade I used to be paid, how long before the company is likely or able to regrade my role to the level that my peers are on? I am painfully aware that I am paid more than those who do the same level of work as I will do are paid less and are not the sort of people to put up with it for long when they realise.

Does anyone have any experience of this?

Thank you!

Well my first thought is why are you returning to a lower job but I realise that's not what you're asking.

Unless there is anything specific in writing about your salary being reviewed and may be downgraded, or similar, then that is your salary and its very difficult for your employer to just reduce it. Managing the problem of others being paid less is something they will have to worry about. You may find your salary ends up being frozen to reduce and eventually eliminate the difference.

Hi Flowery, Thank you for writing, I was hoping you would be about! That is very reassuring, there isn't anything in my contract so I guess I will just await the next reorganisation.