Helping design and implement communications and media programs for oil and gas clients is one of Lisa Stone’s big roles as an advisor of public affairs at CH2M HILL, a full-service engineering consulting company. Check out how Lisa has managed to master the social media scene in this YPDaily…
Elevator Pitch: Describe your job in a nutshell.
I am currently working as advisor, public affairs for CH2M HILL, a global engineering consulting company. I am responsible for leading external communications and community investment across Canada.
Why did you start working at your company? What was the inspiration for this career route?
I have spent the last three years working as a public relations consultant at Weber Shandwick and Hill & Knowlton. In these positions I was able to support some of the world’s largest organizations from various sectors through various communications capacities. It was an opportunity for me to work on a wide array of projects and learn from the best while figuring out what I was really interested in and the areas that I naturally excelled.
Mid-November, I decided to take the plunge to client side and accepted a position with CH2M HILL. In an agency, you’re a generalist, working for one company you have a chance to become an expert. I was really looking for a position where I could strengthen knowledge base in the oil and gas sector and CH2M HILL has offered me that opportunity.
What is the best part of what you do on a day-to-day basis? The most challenging part?
As a communications professional, you have exposure to so many different people working in different capacities. I am passionate about learning and capitalize on every opportunity to engage with someone who offers a different perspective. I also love that variety that communications offers. From media relations to stakeholder engagement to crisis communications, every day is different and exciting.
Right now, I am challenged to slow down. In agency, speed, efficiency and perfection are ingredients for success and you become a master at juggling client requests. At CH2M HILL, I am recalibrating my approach to focus on learning the business, developing trust with my colleagues and grounding myself in the company so that I am positioned for success.
Where do you see yourself in 5 years?
I see myself in a career that continues to challenge me and keeps me on my toes and with a stronger focus on investing my time towards not-for-profits.
What does success look like to you?
I benchmarked my success against myself. I set tangible goals and timelines in my professional life and I work towards achieving them. Where I really measure success though, is in my personal life. Who I am as a daughter, a sister, a friend and an aunt to the people I love is most important to me.
What is the most memorable milestone in your career?
In September 2010, I was a member of a team that provided press support at the World Energy Congress. Over the course of the week, I worked with more than 250 journalists and 5,000 delegates. I coordinated press opportunities between the most recognized media outlets and CEOs of major energy companies.
Do you have any advice for other young professionals?
Don’t wait for an invitation. Take advantage of every opportunity presented to you and regardless of the task, always do your best.
Do you support any charities? If so, which one(s) and why is that important to you?
Over the past two years I have provided national media relations support to the Calgary Homeless Foundation (CHF), promoting their 10 Year Plan to End Homelessness. Launched in 2008, the housing first model is committed to ensuring that no person stays in an emergency shelter longer than seven days before being moved to permanent, affordable housing. In addition to volunteering for CHF, I have also supported ReThink Breast Cancer, the Calgary Food Bank, Strong Hearts Children’s Foundation and Big Brothers and Big Sisters of Calgary.
What to you is notable?
To be notable is to be bold. Collaborate with your peers, be accountable for your actions and take risks because the rewards are often great.
Blackberry, iPhone, Android, or Other?
iPhone.