Consulting executive Annie Hébert-Lalonde left the apparel industry 16 years ago to join a global consultancy giant. Accenture is a Fortune 500, multinational professional services company that provides expertise in strategy, consulting, digital, technology and operations.
Hébert-Lalonde assists her clients to run profitably, adapt to change and grow sustainably. Two years ago, she was appointed Accenture’s Canada SAP Lead.
She is an expert in implementing large-scale enterprise resource planning solutions such as SAP (systems applications products) — an integrated technology system that helps companies, organizations and industries manage everything from finance to supply chain, human resources and customer service.
"I developed a love for it," says Hébert-Lalonde, who leads a 300-plus member technology team.
Keys to success
"I’m very people- and relationship-oriented. Transparency is key. What you see is what you get — it’s enabled me to build successful teams. Also, if I don’t know something, I own up to it and get the help I need."
Proudest moment
“There was one project that was particularly challenging and I said, 'Yes.' No one knew if it would amount to anything. Two years later, my team was recognized for its outstanding work. A small step led to massive changes in how the client operates. I’m proud of what we accomplished.”
Hurdles
“I had one experience that affected me significantly. Your professional life will always include hurdles, but experience has taught me to stay true to my values and move on.”
Career satisfaction
“I’m always in awe every time I’m in a meeting with my team and see how they work together and bring the best of themselves to the table. The people I work with, that’s what gets me up.”
The Concordia factor
“Teamwork really developed my leadership and helped shape me. My undergraduate degree also built the foundation for me to pursue an MBA years later.”
Inspiring professors
“Professors Stephanie Bergier [marketing] and J. Pierre Brunet [management]. Their expertise and passion were contagious.”
Fond memory at university
“Meeting my husband [Antoine Soszynski, BComm 98, MBA 09]!”