Strategic consultant Lesley Antoun left a successful career at Bombardier in 2016 to establish Lesley Antoun Consulting, an independent practice to help companies and organizations implement effective new programs, pathways and strategies. “Making that leap is something I’m very proud of,” says Anton.
Specializing in strategic planning and development across a range of industries, Antoun is also a board member for the Société Les Ponts Jacques Cartier et Champlain Inc. and Wainbee Inc.
In addition to her degree from Concordia, Antoun holds an MBA and several leadership and governance certificates. She commits to two pro-bono mandates a year for non-profit organizations and volunteers on the board of the Concordia University Alumni Association.
Keys to success
“You need a continuous growth mindset. I’m always learning and pushing myself further.”
Job satisfaction
“I always look to positively impact people and organizations. If I can open up possibilities, that’s a huge win.”
The Concordia factor
“Concordia taught me a lot about critical thinking and community. In mechanical engineering, you can’t stay on the surface and expect to solve problems in a meaningful way. It’s also nice to remain in touch with people I graduated with years ago.”
Best career advice
“When I considered taking the leap into independent consulting, several colleagues thought I was making the wrong decision. Rather than dismissing them as naysayers, I listened. It allowed me to fully weigh the risks and ultimately gave me the motivation to double down on my ambition.”
On mentoring other women
“In 1995, there were only eight women in our graduating class of 108 students, and no women in leadership positions in aerospace engineering. I’ve found amazing allies and mentors, and have had a deep desire to share that knowledge with other women as they go through their careers.”
Paying it forward
“I established the Angèle Tanios Antoun Bursary for BIPOC Women in Engineering in my mother’s name. She always said education was critically important, dedicated her life to helping women advance in their careers and was a huge role model.”