How to write a leave policy that holds up at 200 people

A leave policy is three decisions wearing a trench coat: how the balance builds, what happens at year end, and who says yes.

How it builds. Either people get the full balance on day one, or it accrues daily from their start date. Upfront is kinder and simpler. Accrual is fairer when people leave mid-year. Pick one per leave type, not one for the whole company.

What happens at year end. Carry everything, carry a capped amount, or forfeit. Whichever you choose, warn people twice before the deadline. Most disputes are about surprise, not policy.

Who says yes. Route to the direct manager by default, and write down what happens when that manager is away. If you don't, the answer becomes whoever shouts loudest.