"Throughout my career, I've always taken the time to network with other risk and compliance professionals. At a national conference about five years ago, I attended a breakout seminar on whistle-blowing policies surrounding risk. I heard a colleague talk about a policy that their organization adopted that removed all fear of retribution for employees that brought risk concerns forward to the risk manager. Upon returning from the conference, I approached our COO about adopting a similar policy, and I consider this my greatest piece of advice ever. Upon communication, a few employees came forward with significant concerns that otherwise wouldn't have in fear of retaliation against them or a colleague."

"Early in my career, I learned the need for having a long-term, extended outlook on potential risks, and mitigation of those risks was extremely important. When I took my current job, my department was far too shortsighted in risk prevention efforts. The best advice I've ever given was to our CEO to allow professionals in risk management to the table on financial planning and operational planning conversations for the future. If hired here at RSM International, this is one area of expertise I could bring to your clients."