BRAIN FOOD: Matters for the mind to chew on - Perk life - Controlled downshifting

Managers at London-based IT consultancy CMG need never suffer from burnout again, because the company allows them to slip temporarily down the career ladder if their work/life balance priorities alter. This short-term downshifting is popular with new parents and those who simply want to catch their breath.

Bosses say it produces some of the best high fliers by giving control back to employees without affecting their pay packet.