Meet Alexandra Reip and Lisa Aune, two trailblazers at KPMG in the Crown Dependencies. Alexandra, an Advisory Director in Risk Consulting, and Lisa, an Associate Director in Restructuring, share insights into their careers, values, and personal growth. From conducting audits across 30 countries to balancing professional success with a passion for teaching children to cook, these women exemplify resilience, leadership, and dedication. They also highlight the importance of empathy, mentorship, and diversity in shaping inclusive and empowering workplaces. Prepare to be inspired by their stories of breaking barriers and building legacies.
Alexandra Reip – Advisory Director, Risk Consulting, KPMG in the Crown Dependencies
Is there a female who inspires you in business and why?
I have been following and listening to Indra Nooyi, former CEO of PepsiCo, for some time now. Her focus on diversity and creating empowering environments where everyone can contribute resonates deeply with me. I am a firm believer that while individuals can excel on their own, diverse perspectives lead to better outcomes.
Her leadership style is characterised by empathy and a commitment to equality. In my opinion she exemplifies how leaders can remain authentic while making a meaningful impact through fostering inclusive and empowering workplaces.
In my view, one of the most touching aspects of her leadership was her practice of writing personal letters to the families of PepsiCo’s executives, thanking them for their role in shaping future leaders. This gesture highlights her appreciation for the support systems behind her employees and her understanding of how critical family support is to professional success.
What is your career highlight, so far?
A key highlight of my career has been conducting internal audits across 30 countries, including regions such as French-speaking Africa, Yemen, Argentina, and New Zealand. This experience has broadened my professional perspectives (and culinary palate) and deepened my understanding of how ‘tone at the top’ and cultural differences shape business operations, values, and success.
While the same leadership principles and corporate values were shared globally, their impact varied greatly by region. It was fascinating to see how local leadership styles and cultural contexts influenced the company’s culture and operations, even within the same organisation.
Working with diverse teams taught me the importance of adapting my communication and management style to fit the local context. Understanding the cultural nuances of each team was essential for conducting effective audits and fostering positive relationships.
This journey has shown me the beauty of being part of a global village – a mesmerising kaleidoscope of perspectives. Along the way, I’ve also had the privilege of meeting incredible colleagues, many of whom have become lifelong friends.
Lisa Aune – Associate Director, Restructuring, KMPG in the Crown Dependencies
What advice would you give women considering a career in your industry?
Surrounding yourself with good people at every stage of your career is vital. Seek mentors who will guide you, advocate on your behalf, and help build a network that supports your career goals and aspirations. I’ve been fortunate to have fantastic mentors, both male and female, and I’ve realised there’s no shame in asking for help or admitting you don’t know everything. We all need a helping hand sometimes, and it’s important to extend the same support to others when you can.
As a woman in this industry, it’s crucial to know your worth and confidently assert it. Never underestimate yourself or your potential—those glass ceilings are meant to be broken. Many people, especially women, experience a lack of confidence or ‘imposter syndrome,’ particularly when returning from maternity leave. We often convince ourselves that we don’t deserve the promotion, the pay raise, or the respect, but it’s simply not true. We deserve it all, and we should work hard and actively pursue it.
What do you get up to outside of work?
Outside of work, I cherish spending as much time as possible with my family, including my two children, Jacob (15) and Grace (11). I also have a passion for reading, hiking and cooking. In fact, I love cooking so much that in 2022, I set up small business providing cooking lessons and workshops for primary and nursery school-aged children. I believe that everyone should have the basic skills to produce tasty and nutritious meals from scratch and that we have a responsibility to pass these skills on to the younger generation.
I’m fortunate to pursue my passions outside the office while maintaining a successful career. Achieving work-life balance isn’t always easy, but when you get it right, it’s incredibly rewarding.
