Senior Consultant, Ernst & Young (EY), Vancouver, BC
MPPGA 2021
MPPGA stream: Development and Social Change
Undergrad: B. Mgmt., University of Lethbridge
“While I was always passionate about ESG, I was not explicitly set on applying this passion to the real world. The multidisciplinary nature of the MPPGA degree was a fit that allowed me to do that, and also connected me with a very supportive and uplifting network.”
Looking back:
Before pursuing the MPPGA, I worked for an asset management company, where my role sometimes involved analyzing impact of policies and leadership decisions from a people perspective. At this point, I realized that understanding how policy originates is critical, leading me to the MPPGA program. I was always interested in public policy and global affairs as policies have always impacted my life one way or the other. Two opportunities in particular that contributed to my career journey was a research assistantship and the GP2 project. The RA position allowed me to explore solutions to complex policy problems, and the GP2 project was very dear to me as the impact of climate change is disproportionately faced by communities like the Squamish. My Co-op experience was with the US State Department at the US Consulate in Vancouver. While work there as a political economic intern, I was able to participate in foreign policy implementation. This exposed me to a pretty wide range of issues involving diplomacy, foreign policy, and how foreign policy impacts domestic policy.
Where I am now:
My role at EY primarily involves working with businesses and governments to align their strategies and help them meet their environmental, social and governance responsibilities. I am quite proud of what I do because to make the monumental social change needed, all stakeholders (public, private, and civil society) must play a part. My EY work allows me to contribute to efforts that range from decarbonization and climate change-related efforts to ESG strategies and the frameworks around them. The policy impact of this role is the ability to support stakeholders in identifying and understanding the pathways required for developing and putting in place sustainability policies, regulations, and disclosures across sectors.
Advice for new MPPGA students:
Take advantage of the many learning opportunities such as events and networking functions. Keep an open mind because you will be exposed to things you might not even know existed. Finally, connect with the staff, alums, and faculty – they help you imagine what your journey can be.
