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BIV Forty Under 40 Awards: Alyssa Barry

Since the launch of BIV’s Forty under 40 Awards 35 years ago in 1990, the program has recognized nearly 1,400 of B.C.’s brightest business leaders, innovators, professionals and entrepreneurs for their outstanding contributions, at a relatively young age, across a wide variety of sector.
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Alyssa Barry

President, Alliance Advisors IR

Age 38

What career highlight are you most proud of?

Building a business that has a strong reputation on Wall Street, all driven from my home in British Columbia. That makes me proud.

What has been your toughest business or professional decision to date?

The toughest business decision I faced was venturing out on my own to start my business. It meant leaving stability behind, taking significant risks and navigating a challenging market. This decision tested me more than I could have anticipated.

How do you lead?

I want my team to win together, grow together and have a rewarding, fulfilling career with us. It’s about setting the example, pushing boundaries and building an environment where everyone thrives and succeeds.   

What is the biggest lesson you’ve learned in business?

The biggest lesson I’ve learned in business is that there’s no way to truly understand how resourceful you can be until you become an entrepreneur. It tests every skill and pushes you beyond your limits, revealing super powers you never knew you had.

Best piece of advice ever received?

The best piece of advice I ever received was: “Iron sharpens iron. You need to be iron.” It’s a reminder to stay resilient, seek out challenges and surround myself with people who push me to grow and be stronger.

What is your definition of success?

Success, for me, is about creating an authentic legacy—building a strong team and disrupting an industry. It’s about leaving a meaningful impact that drives lasting change, empowers others and inspires transformation.

What are you most passionate about outside of work?

Outside of work, I seek adventures. Whether it’s exploring new places with my family, trying new experiences or stepping outside of my comfort zone, I’m driven by curiosity and a passion for discovering the world around me.

What’s left to accomplish?

Everything. I’m on a mission to build the best IR firm in the world, and we’re just getting started. 

Is there anyone you would like to thank or acknowledge?

To my family: Thank you for your patience with the travel, the work calls in the car and the “one more email” moments. You are my everything.

A personal motto, favourite phrase or saying that resonates with you?

How you do anything is how you do everything

A philanthropic, charitable or community cause or organization you support?

We do a lot as a family to feed families in our community

What do you do to unwind, relax or de-stress?

Listening to music is a great way to wind-down

Favourite place in the province?

Osoyoos is my serenity

Favourite restaurant(s)?

Family night Keg dinners are a ritual we cherish

A book or podcast you would recommend?

How to Live an Extraordinary Life by Anthony Pompliano—it’s my current favourite read and book to gift to others

What is your best habit?

My work ethic. For me, it’s about going above and beyond—not just meeting expectations but exceeding them

A B.C. business leader you admire?

Samir Manji—my mentor, champion and former BIV Forty under 40 Award recipient

Tell us one surprising or little-known fact about yourself.

I was a concert review writer in high school, combining my love for music and writing