What is your role at Accenture, and how did your journey lead you there?

I’ve been with Accenture for 24 years, starting my journey when it was still Andersen Consulting. Initially, I joined because it seemed like an exciting opportunity and a strong addition to my resume. At the time, I never imagined staying this long, but the people have been the defining reason for my tenure. Their intelligence, curiosity, and commitment to making a difference have continually inspired me.

Today, I serve as the Local Market Development Lead, a role that encompasses leading our local presence, fostering team engagement, and strengthening community and client partnerships. Over the years, I’ve navigated various industries and roles within the organization, adapting to the evolving needs of my career and life. Accenture’s flexibility has been instrumental in helping me find a path that aligns with both my professional goals and personal priorities.

Internally, I focus on creating meaningful experiences for our people. This includes driving employee engagement through social events, professional development opportunities, and initiatives that encourage connection and community involvement. My role allows me to cultivate an innovative workplace culture.

Externally, I lead Accenture’s strategic partnerships and community programs in Austin. This involves collaborating with clients and community organizations like the Austin Chamber to develop initiatives that benefit both our clients and the broader community. These efforts allow me to leverage my consulting background while fostering impactful relationships.

What does a day in your life look like?

No two days are alike, but my mornings typically begin with a structured review of priorities. I focus on aligning our short-, mid-, and long-term goals, ensuring progress across multiple ongoing programs. With client activations and community events often planned years in advance, staying organized is essential.

Communications are at the core of my day. Whether I’m strategizing with team members, engaging with clients, or collaborating with partners, clear and thoughtful communication ensures alignment and progress. Building relationships through these interactions is one of the most fulfilling aspects of my role.

One of my favorite parts of the day is participating in events. These moments allow me to connect with people, exchange ideas, and build meaningful relationships. The pace can be dynamic, but it’s invigorating to see programs come to life and witness their impact.

Some days stand out more than others, like AustInnovation Day, a collaborative event we host with the Austin Chamber. This program brings together diverse voices to explore the future of innovation. It’s incredibly rewarding to see participants—from early-career professionals to experienced leaders—engaging in such enriching conversations. Programs like this showcase the power of collaboration and community.

What advice would you give to anyone looking to get involved with Accenture?

Approach every interaction with curiosity and a willingness to learn. With over 750,000 employees globally, Accenture offers an unmatched depth of expertise. Asking thoughtful questions and seeking to understand how we operate are essential first steps in building a successful career here.

Another piece of advice is to embrace collaboration and ask for guidance when needed. Success at Accenture often stems from building strong relationships, both within the organization and with clients. Whether you’re navigating a new project or exploring opportunities, open communication and active listening are key skills to cultivate.

For prospective interns, I recommend attending information sessions and connecting with former interns to gain candid insights. In interviews, be clear about why you’re interested in Accenture and what you aspire to achieve. Even without a concrete end goal, expressing your ambitions—whether solving global challenges or creating meaningful client solutions—demonstrates purpose and drive.

At Accenture, we prioritize curiosity, adaptability, and a commitment to making a positive impact. Your educational background is just one piece of the puzzle; it’s your eagerness to learn, contribute, and collaborate that truly matters.

Why did Accenture get involved with the Chamber, and how has the experience been?

Accenture has been part of the Austin community since 1976, but joining the Austin Chamber provided an opportunity to deepen our connections with clients and contribute to the local business ecosystem. The Chamber serves as a gateway for building relationships, understanding local trends, and addressing challenges faced by businesses. This perspective benefits not only small local organizations but also global companies like ours.

The relationships we’ve developed through the Chamber have been invaluable. Leaders like Tamara Fields have found great value in serving on the board, building meaningful connections, and broadening their networks. Similarly, our team members who participate in Chamber committees consistently gain insights and tools to grow both personally and professionally.

At Accenture, relationships are at the heart of everything we do. The Chamber allows us to stay engaged with the Austin community, ensuring we remain a trusted partner for clients while continuing to grow and evolve. This alignment of values has made our involvement with the Chamber both meaningful and impactful.

If you are an Austin Chamber member and would like to get involved with one of our Committees or Councils, you can learn more and fill out our interest form here.