Ingenuity Magazine Summer 2021

I am proud that we are working toward a more diverse workforce and I want to give everyone the space and opportunity to forge the path that is best for them individually. Ultimately, it's about showing up as your best self and creating a culture of acceptance. What is your plan for staying client focused? My job as the CEO revolves around staying client focused, driving the growth of the business. My first step is going to be a listening tour, where I will meet with top clients from across our markets. I’m going to visit clients we’ve had success with, and those we haven’t been as successful with. Our best opportunities for learning are actually those times when we have failed. We are in a time of enormous change. What do you think consulting firms should be prepared for to ensure client success in the next quarter- century? Our clients are looking for trusted partners and advisors more than ever before. The partnership aspect of the client/consultant relationship will be enhanced, especially in the aftermath of the pandemic. With rapid, game- changing technological changes in recent years, it’ll be the consultant’s job to help clients make informed choices about what resources to incorporate. There’s also an increased emphasis on rebuilding and redevelopment, which can be a lot more complex from a client and design perspective. Clients are no longer looking at one static structure: it’s becoming a more involved, dynamic process. Their focus is on connectivity, which is why we see a rise in community-driven projects like parks and transportation planning. We excel in this area and our versatility gives us the ability to complete the full life cycle of these projects. That is what will enable us to be that trusted partner. Great talking with you, Lorraine. As a final comment, share three words that best describe you professionally and personally. Ah, now that’s a real challenge: Empathetic, Introspective, Driven. Staff Writer Biggest challenges in your career? I’d say one of the biggest challenges is being a woman in a male-dominated industry. We are constantly trying to improve the environment for future generations of women, but earlier in my career, there were times when I was made to feel unwelcome. As with everything, I took it as a learning experience, with an understanding that the problem was a result of their own bias, and I decided to let my work speak for itself. The quality of your character and the skills you bring to the table will ultimately play a role in changing minds. With diversity in mind, what value does diversity bring to the workplace? Diversity is critical in the workplace and ensures our firm accurately represents the world around us. It extends beyond our physical characteristics. Looking at diversity from a broader perspective, factoring in experiences, our opinions, our backgrounds—all the dynamic facets of our identity as individuals collectively bring value to our clients and help us make progress as a firm. Diversity of thought helps drive innovation, which can only be accomplished by making it a priority. Pond Ingenuity | Summer 2021 15