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BIV Forty Under 40 Awards: Jessie Ramsay

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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Jessie Ramsay

Partner, Baker Newby LLP

Age 36

What career highlight are you most proud of?

I am most proud of becoming a partner at Baker Newby LLP at the age of 30. Achieving this milestone at a young age was a significant personal and professional accomplishment. Having this goal become a reality validated my dedication to my craft and to building strong relationships within the firm and the broader community.

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

The toughest business decision I’ve had to make isn’t tied to any single instance, but rather to the ongoing challenge of saying “no” and setting boundaries. It is often easy to get caught up in every opportunity or request that comes your way, but I’ve learned that in order to focus on what truly matters, whether it’s the long-term vision of the firm, my team’s well-being or personal priorities, being able to create space and say “no” is critical.  

How do you lead?

My leadership style is to lead by example. I learned early on that the best way to lead is to model the behaviours and values that are expected from the team. By consistently demonstrating integrity, work ethic and emotional intelligence, I aim to reinforce the standard for how we operate together.   

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

The biggest lesson I’ve learned in business is the importance of trusting your team. When I began my career as a lawyer, I sometimes felt the need to control every detail or have all the answers myself. However, i quickly realized that working as a team and turning to colleagues for input is not only and effective way to problem solve but it can produce incredible and creative outcomes.

Best piece of advice ever received?

The best piece of advice I’ve received is simple but powerful: “Work hard, and the rest will follow.” This advice has been a cornerstone in how I approach my practice and it has shaped the way I measure success—not only by the end result, but also by the commitment and effort put into the process.

What is your definition of success?

True success comes from finding fulfillment and happiness in the everyday moments, whether that’s through meaningful relationships, personal growth or simply enjoying the process of learning and evolving. I’ve learned that success isn’t the destination, but the journey. I strive to appreciate all of the twists, turns, ups and downs along the way and to experience each of them with gratitude and purpose. 

What are you most passionate about outside of work?

Outside of work, my biggest passion is my family. Recently, my partner and I welcomed our daughter, and it completely transformed my outlook on life. Family has always been a central part of my life, but becoming a parent has given me a whole new sense of purpose and fulfillment. It has made me more mindful of how I spend my time, where I direct my energy and what kind of legacy I want to create. My daughter has taught me to appreciate the small moments, to embrace the unexpected and to keep a balance between work and personal life.

What’s left to accomplish?

This is a very difficult question to answer as my goals change and evolve along with my experiences. However, within my career I am most focused on growing all aspects of my current practice, establish a mediation practice and push the boundaries of what we can achieve as a firm.

Is there anyone you would like to thank or acknowledge?

I would like to thank Beau for his unwavering support of me and all of my pursuits. I would also like to thank my parents for being the best parents a girl could ask for guiding me all along the way. To my law partners, I admire each of you and would not be here without you. Lastly, to Teddy, thank you for making me a mom. I love you.

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

“Knock on wood”

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

Mémiyelhtel, which is a unique Indigenous youth mentorship program located in the Chilliwack area of Stó:lō S’ólh Téméxw

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

Golf, however it is not always relaxing

Favourite place in the province?

Home

Favourite restaurant(s)?

Bravo in Chilliwack; Burdock & Co in Vancouver

A book or podcast you would recommend?

The Psychology of Money

What is your best habit?

I laugh easily

A B.C. business leader you admire?

All of my law partners

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

I won the speech fest two years in a row in elementary school