What is your role at Accenture? Chief Human Resources Officer, responsible for the personnel management and capability development of the company’s approximately 146,000 people globally. What career path has led you to where you are today? I joined Accenture in 1981 and spent most of my career leading business integration consulting work for clients in the Financial Services, Public Service, Transportation and Health Services organizations. I assumed responsibility for Accenture's training function in 2000, and moved into my current role in 2004. What do you think has been the key to your success at Accenture? My parents brought me up to believe that I should never stop trying, and that I have enough intelligence and ability to do anything I want, but not enough to just sit back and wait for opportunities to come to me on their own. I have always been an extremely hard worker, no matter what I was doing. I feel that with a little bit of aptitude, if one has fortitude and relationships (not networks), and a little luck, then you will find the opportunities. What do you see as your greatest challenge – both professionally and personally? My greatest challenge is balancing my professional and personal lives—without compromising either. I have very high expectations of myself as a business professional, and as a spouse and mother. I find it almost impossible to be balanced on any given day, but I strive to be balanced over a period of time. What inspires you to come to work and what motivates to stop working each day? I am inspired by Accenture's culture. We are competitive and driven, but we work together to achieve common goals. My family and my health motivate me to stop working each day. To recharge I exercise, watch my kids' sporting events or watch one of my favorite TV shows that I have recorded. What do you wish you had known “back then” as you were making your way in your career? I wish I had possessed more confidence in myself and my abilities. What advice do you have for women trying to advance at Accenture? What advice do you have for men? I believe everyone—man or woman—needs to define what a satisfying career is for himself or herself. There is not a universal definition for what it means to “advance” your career or to be “successful.” Therefore, after defining what a satisfying career means for you, my advice is to never stop trying to achieve that. When one path does not lead you to a destination that appeals to you, find yourself another path—and notice I said find it yourself, versus depending on someone else to find it for you! And don’t go down any path alone…having someone there to talk to, learn from, and commiserate with is vital! What has been most influential in helping you succeed at Accenture? My most pivotal moment with Accenture was when I was offered a scary “stretch” assignment. I was very hesitant to take it on, but my supervisor encouraged me and said he would be there to support me. I grew tremendously in that role, and have been stretching myself ever since. What interests and hobbies do you make time for? For recreation, I enjoy participating in triathlons, sitting on a beach with a tropical drink, and watching live theater—especially musicals. When I am not working or enjoying my hobbies, I am revitalizing myself through philanthropy. I am happiest when I am being productive (my husband swears I don’t know how to lie on a couch!), and so my involvement with non-work organizations allows me to take a mental break from my paid job while still doing something useful to society. I limit the number of not-for-profit boards I join to ensure I can truly dedicate myself to adding value. What are you most looking forward to? Professionally, I look forward to the increased emphasis on the role that Human Resources plays in the success of Accenture. Personally, I look forward to watching my children grow into young adults. I also look forward to someday watching my college basketball team, the Fighting Illini, win the college basketball championship (the NCAA Championship). I also look forward to cleaning out my closets, files and drawers many years from now when I somehow magically find the time! On the personal side… Education: University of Illinois, bachelor of science in business administration; University of Chicago, masters in business administration What are your top three secrets to success? Assume full responsibility for everything you are responsible for. Know your limits, priorities, strengths and weaknesses, and let those around you know them, too. Recognize that your success is totally dependent on the success of those around you. Always share the credit. Never share the blame. What are your top three ways to balance life and work? Choose someone to share your life with who not only accepts what you do, but also loves you for doing it. Your personal life significantly impacts your professional life, and support is critical. Be happy—it is contagious, and most people get tired of someone who is not. Have fun. If you can't laugh, you are in big trouble. Make time to do what energizes you. Mentors: Steve James and Marie Campagna are two Accenture senior executives (now retired) who stretched me, helped me grow, and most importantly, believed in me. Words of wisdom: The most valuable thing you can give someone is your time. I dream… of living a long, healthy, productive and engaging life. But sometimes I simply dream of having a clean and organized garage.