Who Says Auditors are Risk Averse?

I'm a firm believer that workplace courage can be seen in countless ways within an organization. For some individuals, courage comes naturally; while for others, flexing your 'brave muscles' is more easily said than done.

Day to day, I place immense focus on inspiring courage within my teams and among their peers. By having bold but reasoned judgment, being a spirited but calculated risk-taker and having an assertive but reflective disposition – you can accomplish more than you ever thought possible. 

In my opinion, a notable example of this type of talent is Alejandro Gomez, Senior Auditor at TD, who embarked on an inspirational journey before starting his career within our organization.

Here's his story:

Originally from Venezuela, Alejandro moved to Canada in 2008 with his wife Alice. At the time, he says he had no idea what was waiting for them in their new 'home and native land.'

"I remember the feeling of uncertainty," he told me. "On the other hand, it was like living an adventure that was taking me to the top of Mount Everest; I was excited by the unknown and the endless amount of possibilities."

Initially, the move itself was exhilarating. Alice started her MBA at the University of British Columbia, and Alejandro started looking for a job – a difficult task, as he was competing against Canadians with fluent English and Canadian experience.

Endlessly determined and extremely focused on the goal at hand, he tried everything to land a job: networking events, informational interviews, applying to entry-level jobs - you name it.

After a long battle with no offers, Alejandro remained positive even though the clock was ticking; him and Alice were only four months away from losing their life savings.

"All of a sudden, it didn't feel like an adventure anymore. But, I figured it was all about seeing the opportunity in the challenges, obstacles and setbacks..." he said.

Given the circumstances, Alejandro thought it would be best to apply his Sales and Consulting experience from back home. As a result, he decided to start a consulting service, helping businesses streamline their IT operations to adapt to the tough business market during the Great Recession.

A few months later, hard work finally paid off; Alejandro landed a job at the second largest professional services firm in the world, and one of the 'Big Four' multinational auditors. "All of a sudden, our lives had changed. With this new opportunity, I knew I was on the path that would lead to the ultimate growth in my career. I became a Consultant in Risk and Controls, and I couldn't have asked for more," he explained.

Within a few years, Alejandro decided to try the Financial Services industry and gain experience in Insurance and Banking; this is where his journey with TD began.

"I've been with TD for two years and I have to say that I have never felt more 'at home'. I applied to the Bank's Audit Rotation Program because I wanted exposure to different lines of business, and to face new challenges," he said.  

"This opportunity at TD has given me countless benefits; networking, knowledge of new ways of auditing, different strategies for communicating with clients, and a broader view of the bank. I feel honoured to work in a diverse and inclusive workspace and among leader's who value my experiences, background, and skillset."  

Looking back on his journey, Alejandro says he wouldn't want to experience it any differently.

"My wife and I have great memories of those 'hard days' when we took nothing for granted: our basement 'suite' we called home, the frustrating moments assembling IKEA furniture for the first time, splurging once a month to go to a restaurant, usually McDonald's…. all of these experiences made me value and appreciate what I have today."

And for those that are new to the country, and seeking new opportunities in their career, Alejandro has countless pieces of advice he can offer. But one that stands out above the rest is this:

Know who you are and what you want. Find out what your strengths are and leverage them; be patient, be focused and find the opportunities in front of you.