As my career progressed, I leaned more toward the communications side of my job and further away from the quarterly grind of financial reporting. Amidst another Canadian energy recession in 2015, I accepted a corporate communications role that took me to Ontario. I needed a break from the boom/bust cycle of oil and gas, and I was happy to reconnect with my Ontario family and roots.
In 2019, while working in Toronto, I was lucky to find my way to RSM Canada, where I joined as national leader for corporate communications. With RSM offices across the country, building a unified corporate culture was sometimes challenging. Having grown up in Western Canada but living in Toronto, I came to RSM with the experience and perspective from both sides of the country.
At RSM, I led a Canadian-focused external communications strategy that strengthened RSM Canada’s corporate reputation and brand awareness. Internal communications were also a priority with six offices across the country and 1,000-plus employees, particularly during the pandemic when our work environment was entirely remote and internal communications were critical for connection and engagement.
In 2021, the big blue sky and snowy mountain peaks of Alberta called me home. I came back to Calgary along with a return to the Canadian energy sector in 2022, after leaving RSM. I am now working for a diversified energy company with deep roots in Alberta, leading communications for their major projects. I also sit on the board of directors for a Canadian youth services organization focused on community service and civic engagement.
Outside of work, I am the proud mom of two sons and have loved watching their progression into adult life. Most weekends, I am in the mountains, chasing wintry conditions worldwide to ski 12 months of the year. Travel is a passion, and I recently returned from a hiking retreat in Norway, where I discovered the joys of wood-fired saunas and cold plunges in the North Atlantic.
I am incredibly proud of the relationships I have built throughout my career, particularly those from RSM. I have been fortunate to have worked with so many smart and talented people, many of whom remain close friends and have helped shape my professional and personal life. My time at RSM also reinforced the importance of building trust with internal and external stakeholders. Truly understanding needs and expectations while consistently delivering on promises builds trust and confidence in your team.
RSM’s culture continues to adapt and evolve because it is a reflection of its people. It is a real strength and a big reason why people are drawn to the firm. My advice to alums is to stay connected because RSM attracts quality people.
If Heidi’s story inspires you to find your next role at RSM, explore our openings today!
