What was your last career change?
Last April, I left my position as a consultant/owner of ILA Consulting Inc., where I managed and supervised teams in the areas of product management, project and proposal management. I joined the University of Ottawa, which represents a major change for me, as I am moving from the private sector to the higher education sector. This is a completely new environment for me—a change that is both challenging and rewarding, allowing me to learn a great deal while putting my experience to good use.
What contributed to your success?
The spirit of collaboration and mutual support that I have found here, the constant support of my manager, my colleagues, and the entire IT team.
What was the biggest obstacle you had to overcome in order to adapt to your new role?
Adapting to a sector that is completely new to me and requires time to understand how things are done, the processes, and the culture specific to this environment.
What advice would you give to someone considering a career change?
Just do it! If you feel the need to change, it means there is something to explore. Seize opportunities when they arise, and embrace everything that comes with them—learning experiences, challenges, opportunities. Be curious, reach out to people, and build relationships with your colleagues.
How can colleagues help someone transition into their new responsibilities?
By sharing their experience and advice, including them in discussions, and remaining available and open to answering questions.
What aspects of your day bring you joy?
The moments spent sharing and interacting with my colleagues. These are rich, human moments that give meaning to my work.
If you were a chocolate bar, which one would you be?
A mint chocolate bar: a refreshing combination, a little unexpected, but always enjoyable 😊.
What ingredient should never be on a pizza?
Pineapple! Even though Hawaii is on my bucket list, Hawaiian pizza is not. In my opinion, pineapple simply has no place on a pizza.
What three items would you bring if you were sent to a desert island?
If I find myself on a desert island, I assume that I’m not trying to get back… so no rescue equipment on my list!
In that case, I would bring
- A notebook to write, reflect, and leave a trace.
- A solar speaker to listen to music and dance with the waves.
- A good novel that I could read over and over again.