Partner, PwC Canada
Age 39
What career highlight are you most proud of?
Joining the partnership of PwC Canada has been a significant career highlight for me. It felt very special because I spent most of my career life working in a different market, culture and language at PwC Europe in Vienna, Austria. Joining the partnership allowed me to become part of an incredibly supportive and collaborative group of individuals, here in Vancouver and nationally. Additionally, it provided me with the opportunity to drive initiatives and make an impact in areas that I deeply care about.
What has been your toughest business or professional decision to date?
The decision to move and ultimately stay in Canada, a country where we did not know anyone, was a significant turning point in my life. Leaving behind our family, friends and professional network in Europe was not easy, but we wanted to see the world and live new experiences. We moved when our children were just two and four years old, which meant we could not rely on the support system we had back home. Adapting to a new market and building new connections required me to step out of my comfort zone and embrace new opportunities and challenges.
How do you lead?
I strive to lead by inspiring others to achieve their best, work as a team and make continuous improvements. Fostering a collaborative environment can be challenging with a globally dispersed team, but I take the time to get to know my colleagues personally. I want everyone to feel empowered, valued and engaged. I encourage my team to take ownership, ask critical questions and bring new ideas.
What is the biggest lesson you’ve learned in business?
The biggest lesson I have learned in business is to focus on what I can control and let go of the rest. In the fast-paced and ever-changing business environment, it’s easy to get overwhelmed by factors beyond our control. By concentrating on what we can influence, we can make more effective decisions and maintain a positive mindset. I never played tennis but hear tennis players—such as Bianca Andreescu in her kids’ book Bibi’s Got Game, which I like to read with my daughter— talk about this often.
Best piece of advice ever received?
A great piece of advice I got is: “In a world where you can be anything, be kind.” This resonates deeply with me because you never know what people are going through in life. Moreover, a simple act of kindness, or just a smile, can make a significant difference in our interactions, no matter if they are personal or professional.
What is your definition of success?
Success, to me, is about making a positive impact while achieving personal and professional growth. I strive to make a positive impact by helping others be successful—connecting people and bringing growth opportunities, being a cheerleader and a sounding board. I want to make a positive change in my field and in my community working with my clients and colleagues on meaningful projects and initiatives that improve the status quo, often leveraging technology and data.
What are you most passionate about outside of work?
I am most passionate about family, youth, youth sports, technology and entrepreneurship. Spending quality time with my family is incredibly important to me, and I love being involved in activities that support and inspire young people. Youth sports are a particular interest, as they teach valuable life skills such as teamwork, resilience and perseverance. I have a keen interest in technology and enjoy staying updated on the latest advancements, and I am passionate about supporting the startup ecosystem.
What’s left to accomplish?
There are still many exciting projects left to accomplish, and many more to come in the future, particularly those involving innovation and challenging how we think and act to embrace change. I am enthusiastic about technological disruption and the changes it brings in my field of work. The non-profit boards where I am a director have ambitious goals that I want to support. There are other projects around the topics I am passionate about. I am always on a mission.
Is there anyone you would like to thank or acknowledge?
I would like to thank my husband, children and my family for always being here for me. My fellow PwC partners, in particular Jason Boyer, and my colleagues and alumni for supporting me and giving me opportunities to grow, as well as creating many fun memories. I would also like to thank my clients and the community for the opportunity to work together.
A personal motto, favourite phrase or saying that resonates with you?
“Keep going!” First I heard this phrase being used in sports when I came to Canada. It is so valuable for life
A philanthropic, charitable or community cause or organization you support?
Tyler Robinson Foundation supporting pediatric cancer families, the West Vancouver Foundation supporting causes on the Vancouver North Shore, and others
What do you do to unwind, relax or de-stress?
Walks on the beach and water sports, such as paddleboard, kayak, sailing or swimming.
Favourite place in the province?
Dundarave Beach in West Vancouver—I love that there is a small beach bar for dinners with sunsets
Favourite restaurant(s)?
Casa Mia in West Vancouver with a very pleasant private party area
A book or podcast you would recommend?
The Economist
What is your best habit?
I have a habit of continuously learning new things and meeting new people, I really enjoy it
A B.C. business leader you admire?
Anna Sainsbury, co-founder and CEO of GeoComply—she is a great mentor and role model
Tell us one surprising or little-known fact about yourself.
I am an artistic swimmer
