CONSULTANTS WHO LOVE CONSULTING – JANE PARDY, MBA, CMC
Q1 In brief, describe how you entered the profession of management consulting, or when did you decide that management consulting was a profession that you wanted to enter?
I had been working for 14 years for a great organization: the Newfoundland Hospital Association. In 1994, I had the mandate to make the Education and Consulting service a self-funding one: we were in the midst of a significant economic downturn at that time. We re-invented ourselves, learned a great deal, and achieved our goal within two years. In 1996, when my CEO retired, I knew it was also time for me to move on. A colleague helped me to take the leap of faith that I could become a successful consultant. I have never looked back. Since then, in the same way my colleague supported me, I try my best to support aspiring consultants.
Q2 What do you love most about consulting?
I love the trustful relationships I have been able to create with clients and colleagues. To be so trusted is a personal asset that I will always protect.
Q3 What do you like the least?
Doing my own accounting!
Q4 What has been your most satisfying engagement and why?
I was engaged to work with a Board on governance issues. It was not a pretty picture: lots of animosity and open conflict. I was nervous as their reputation was notorious. I planned carefully and stayed neutral. I helped them test assumptions and beliefs and to see what they could be. They are now a long-standing client, which has extended to their counterpart Boards throughout the country.
Q5 What personality trait has helped you the most in your career?
The ability to really listen and to reflect on what I've heard.
Q6 Finally, if you were stranded on a desert island - What is one book and one luxury item you would take with you?
It would be a book on how to live on a desert island and my iPad (and battery chargers) to log my journey.
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Visit Jane's LinkedIn Page to learn more.
