Client Committee members in the Kenneth Woods Portfolio Management Program at the John Molson School of Business on why they share their time and expertise with students

Susan Da Sie, retired senior managing partner at Standard Life/Manulife

Susan Da Sie worked in the financial services industry for 35 years, with 20 years as a portfolio manager in US and Canadian equities. She began as a mentor for the KWPMP and is now a member of the client committee.

She says serving on the client committee has shown her just how much work the students put in over their tenure as research associates and fund managers. She also credits Director Sukyong Yang for the incredible success of the program.

She says the program has several standout qualities, including the real portfolio that students manage, allowing them to test their investment strategies before joining the workforce.

"The program gives the students a very accurate experience of what it’s like working in the money management business," she says. "The fund is large enough to make asset mix and equity diversification feasible and the amount of collaboration among students enriches the learning experience."

She adds that the competitions and trips to Toronto and New York City further enhance the experience for students.

Sharing her time on the client committee is part of what she sees as the duty of those with experience to pass on their knowledge to the next generation.

“I have been very impressed with the quality of students in the program," she says. "The program is amazing."

Annie Laliberté, Vice-President, Global Equities, Addenda Capital

“Having been in the financial industry for almost 25 years, it’s important for me to give back and support the next generation,” says Laliberté, echoing Da Sie. When David Abramson stepped down as a member of the client committee, the director invited Annie to take his place given her experience in global equities.

“The investment world is very competitive, and I was lucky to meet people on my path that mentored me, sponsored me or were just great supporters,” she adds. “I wouldn’t have had the same career without them. That’s why I feel it is important to give back.”

She says she’s impressed with how well-structured the program is and how rewarding it feels to see the client committee’s feedback having a positive impact on the students as they move through the program.

One of the challenges, she says, is finding the balance between providing feedback while allowing students to make mistakes.

“Learning from their mistakes in the context of the KWPMP is an invaluable experience the students will carry with them when they enter the workforce. The rigor of this program and the level of dedication that is needed to succeed gives these students a competitive edge in the job market post-graduation,” she adds.

Learn more about the Kenneth Woods Portfolio Management Program at the John Molson School of Business.