Gen Z boss praised for refusing paid leave requests - but employees are thanking her for it

Gen Z manager from Virginia has sparked widespread discussion online after revealing her unconventional stance on paid time off (PTO). Rather than making employees use their vacation days for emergencies, she insists that PTO should be reserved for rest and relaxation. Her leadership approach has earned her praise on social media, with many calling it a refreshing change in workplace culture.

A Leader, Not Just a Manager

According to Newsweek, Elizabeth Beggs, 28, a director of client relations at a packaging distribution company in Richmond, manages a team of five employees aged between 22 and 36. While she doesn’t believe in a strict management style, she describes her leadership as “servant leadership.”

“I always make it clear in hiring that communication is key,” Beggs told Newsweek. “Let me know what you need from me and how I can support you, but do not abuse my trust, or it will be gone. There is a strong difference between a leader and a manager.”

Her approach to time-off requests stands out. She rejects PTO requests for medical emergencies and serious personal crises—not because she denies leave, but because she doesn’t believe employees should have to use their personal time for such situations.

Putting Employees First

Beggs shared an example of an employee who was going through a miscarriage and texted her about submitting PTO. She immediately responded, “Girl, go to the doctor, we’re not submitting time off for that!” Similarly, when another employee’s child was hospitalized with a severe breathing