Anna Bourne
Global Client Service Partner
EY
Iselin, NJ USA
“Whatever choices you make, you make them for yourself.”
Milestones
My road in life took a while to figure out.
I started in external audit and spent ten years there. I remember how pivotal getting my first large client was.
I then worked in industry for ten years before deciding to come back to the firm, which was a very important decision for me.
I relocated to another region and ran an entire practice for three years. And then I did it again by relocating and running another practice for three years!
After that I moved into a talent advisory role and then back to client service.
Keep following my journey
Education
High School
Urbana High School
Urbana High School
Certification/License
Certified Public Accountant (CPA)
AICPA
Certified Public Accountant (CPA)
AICPA
Career
Global Client Service Partner
I’m responsible for all EY services to a large global client, which has operations in 70 countries.
Career Roadmap
My work combines:
My work combines:
Business
Entrepreneurship
Accomplishing Goals
Day to Day
I look at my day like I’m the CEO of this account. I’m responsible for the operation and tone of the account, the work we deliver, and I’m at the front, facing the client. If we do well, we get praise; if we do poorly, I have to answer for that. It’s about understanding how things relate, how each person connects the dots, and adding value on a global stage. My time is spent looking for connections while ensuring people are communicating and that we are using collaboration, rigor and discipline.
Advice for Getting Started
Here's the first step for everyone
Start by gathering information. Ask successful people how they got where they are. Shadow someone, ask good questions and follow up. Build a network of professionals and leverage your network to get your foot in the door. People who do well have thought about how they’re going to succeed by understanding expectations, asking how to navigate obstacles and putting themselves out there. But you also have to consider if this role is a good fit for you based on what drives you. You need to be you.
Recommended Education
My career is related to what I studied. I'd recommend the path I took:
Certification/License
Certified Public Accountant (CPA)
Certified Public Accountant (CPA)
Hurdles
The Noise I Shed
From Society in General:
"At the time I was going to business school, people questioned whether it was a good career choice for a woman or if there was a more suitable option."
Challenges I Overcame
Sibling With Special Needs
