BIV is recognizing Elly Seddon, partner at BLG, and 39 other exceptional business leaders as part of the 2023 Forty Under 40 Awards cohort.
Longer Q&As with each recipient are included in BIV's annual Forty Under 40 Magazine (out in print Dec. 11). Award winners will be celebrated at an awards gala Feb. 7, 2024.
This profile may have been edited for length and clarity.
What career highlight are you most proud of?
Making partner at BLG was a major highlight for me, but I'm really proud of what my co-founder and I have done with Bulletproof Cosmetics and Bulletproof Foundation. Our goal was to help women leave harmful situations and, for a number of reasons, we decided that the best way for us to achieve that was to launch a company in an industry that is completely new to both of us. Now hearing the personal stories of the women who reach out to us makes me proud that we took that risk.
What was your toughest business or professional decision?
Deciding to launch a business that is based on a traumatic personal story meant that I would be sharing that personal story with the world, and I wasn’t sure that I was ready to do that so publicly. Ultimately, I decided that being vulnerable in order to convey the authenticity in the passion behind our mission was important to the success of the business and, in turn, the foundation.
How do you lead?
I try to lead by example. Through the most challenging times of my career, I remember thinking to myself that if someone else was able to do it, there’s no reason I shouldn’t be able to get there as well. I hope to be that example for those who see me as a leader. I also think it’s important for your team to see you living by the standard you set in order to establish legitimacy and trust within the team.
What is the biggest lesson you've learned in business?
It’s similar to one of my favourite quotes: “Before you speak, listen. Before you write, think. Before you spend, earn.” In particular, take your time and listen before you speak. People are often willing to offer you their perspective, which can be invaluable knowledge you may not otherwise be able to access. Take that in. It will only add to your tools.
Best piece of advice ever received?
Make it happen.
What advice would you give your 20-year-old self?
Set your own definition of success and then pursue your goals according to that definition. Don’t let anyone else determine what “success” means for your life.
What's left to accomplish?
We’re going to need more space for a full answer, but in the immediate future, my priority is to launch the work of Bulletproof Foundation within communities all across Canada.
Is there anyone you would like to thank or acknowledge?
My husband. He’s my biggest hype man. We also have one-year-old twins and I am always asked about how I balance things. The truth is, I chose a partner who recognizes that, at times, I need to play the supporting role for his career and, at other times, he needs to play the supporting role for mine. He has always prioritized my goals and not only shows up for me enthusiastically but works hard to create the space for me to be able to work on my dreams without feeling guilty for doing it.
Read Q&As with all 40 award recipients here. Tickets to the 2023 Forty Under 40 Awards gala on Feb. 7 are now available.
