Full circle: Melissa Simonetta’s return

Can you tell us about when you first joined PwC Canada?

When I first joined PwC Canada as a marketing manager at the end of March 2019, I was in a role shared between our brand team and an industry portfolio. My first major project was our new partner campaign.

In the fall of 2019, I moved into a Tax marketing role. I was given the freedom to shape projects with the support of my peers and leaders, allowing me to own my development journey. I stayed with the firm in that role until June 2021. I really enjoyed my time working on a variety of client events and case studies with great leaders within the practice.

What led you to move on from PwC Canada, and where did you go next?

While I enjoyed my time at PwC Canada, I wanted a new challenge in a different industry. I joined the marketing team of a large telecommunications company, which I had admired for many years due to their social purpose and contributions to society. In my role as a senior strategy manager, I was part of a team that was focused on a hybrid work campaign.

Soon after, I joined the commercial go-to-market team, where I supported the launch of new collaboration and communications products and mobility offerings by creating internal and customer marketing materials to support B2B (business-to-business) sales teams and customers. In my final role at the organization, I led a team of marketing managers focused on the go-to-market strategy for the industry solutions portfolio.

What prompted your return to PwC Canada, and what role did you return to?

I decided to return to PwC Canada as a senior marketing manager when an opportunity opened up on the Compliance Transformed and Tax Services portfolios. The Tax space is a domain I grew passionate about during my first tenure at the firm, and it’s central to our client services.

How do you envision your current role at PwC Canada evolving, and what impact do you want to have?

I’m eager to immerse myself in my current portfolios, which have evolved to focus on developing thought leadership in areas significantly impacted by the risk and regulatory environment. I look forward to advancing our market position as a trusted leader and making an impact on our teams through coaching, mentoring and talent development.

My goal is to grow as a leader within our marketing team and explore further opportunities in the business enablement division of our firm, contributing to our success and fostering a culture of continuous learning and development.

Based on your own experience, what advice would you give to someone considering returning to PwC Canada?

If you’re considering returning to PwC Canada, it’s important to maintain your network, as it can provide awareness of opportunities and facilitate conversations that may lead to a return. In our day-to-day work, every interaction is significant and contributes to your evolving personal brand, which is crucial in any capacity, but also when rejoining the firm.

Your reputation and the way you’re remembered by your colleagues can greatly influence your ability to return and integrate back into the organization. I also recommend being an advocate for yourself and making sure you have others who can speak positively about your work and character, as this can impact discussions about your return and future opportunities at the firm.