What do you do and what is it about your job that gets you out of bed in the morning?
I lead LexisNexis Risk Solutions' Fraud & Identity, Canada market strategy, which means that I work across a number of teams to define and execute our Canadian market strategy. There are many facets to my role, however some key areas include understanding the unique needs of the Canadian market, working with different teams to highlight our market-leading solutions for Canadian and multinational customers, and supporting Canada-specific opportunities.
I am fortunate that my job is not only incredibly interesting, but there is also a tremendous sense of purpose. Everyday I focus on providing solutions to Canadian organizations that help prevent fraud, identity theft, and other challenges, which is motivating and empowering. I also get to work with talented, fantastic coworkers who I learn from everyday.
How did you get to where you are today?
I did not set out to work in identity when I was in high school or university, in fact, I fully expected to work in the healthcare space! After graduating from Simon Fraser University with a BSc in Health Science I worked in research starting my second life. Despite not initially pursuing identity, each level of my career built towards where I am today in unique ways. Some of the factors that I believe contributed to where I am now include ambitiously pursuing goals while remaining open to opportunities, guidance from mentors and colleagues, and a bit of kismet. At each stage of my career, I have had the benefit of mentors and bosses advocating for me as well as providing wise advice, which has significantly shaped my career journey. Additionally, going to Emory University’s MBA program opened doors for me that helped pivot my career in a significant and meaningful way
What is the most important lesson you have learned along the way?
Almost always, you will get so much further and faster with others on a team than you can alone. This is something that I need to remind myself often as I am naturally quite introverted! Over the years learning from others' experiences and hearing others' viewpoints has added or changed my perspective in a valuable way. Even when I do not agree, gaining different or contrasting perspectives can be important and instructive.
What's your pitch to CEOs in the identity space? What do you suggest they START / STOP / CONTINUE doing and why?
My role continues to be interesting because the fraud & identity space is always evolving. Fraud prevention and identity should not be a set-it and forget it exercise given how actors and the industry change. To properly protect your organization and customers, the most effective approach is to look at the consumer from a 360-degree lens (digital, physical, behavioral) as well as layer solutions in a way that matches the level of friction with risk. We have heard and seen several times that customers actually prefer when there is some friction at key points in the customer journey as it indicates security measures are in place. To start, I encourage reviewing your fraud prevention and identity practices to ensure that you have sufficient and appropriate solutions at each stage of the customer journey and each channel. In terms of stop, I would encourage leaders to reconsider perspectives on pass-through rates. Rejecting a potential fraudster should be reviewed as a positive. Finally, continue reviewing your protocols and practices to ensure that they are keeping pace and tailored with your organizations' unique needs.
In one sentence, why does diversity matter to you?
Diversity brings meaningful perspectives that improve the wellbeing and success of both people and organizations.
What book/film/piece of art would you recommend to your fellow members? Why?
Would it be too cliche to recommend "Catch Me If You Can" ? A great movie but also, the ultimate con artist.
What advice would you give to the teenage 'you'?
As a teenager and college student, I was always in a rush to reach the next stage of life. My advice would be to continue pushing forward ambitiously but also enjoy and be present where you are.