The 2024 theme for Women’s History Month is Women at Work: Economic Growth Past, Present and Future, encouraging us to reflect on the significant contributions women make to shape our workforce, and drive economic innovation and progress in Canada. At Watson, we’re proud to work alongside a group of talented women who are not only shaping the future of governance, but also leading by example.
To honour this month, we asked some of the incredible women in our firm two simple but insightful questions: “What did you want to be when you grew up?” and “What inspires you about working with boards?”
Read on to learn more about some of the women who work at Watson.
Barb Schimnowsky, Partner
What did you want to be when you grew up?
“A photojournalist.”
What inspires you about working with boards?
“Every board is unique, with different personalities and issues that their organization is facing, so I’m constantly learning.”
Stacey Martin, Consultant
What did you want to be when you grew up?
“Fashion designer (aspiring to work in high luxury goods… Chanel was the dream).”
What inspires you about working with boards?
“At my core, I am an extrovert who loves problem solving. The most rewarding aspect of working with boards is the opportunity to drive meaningful change at the highest levels of an organization. It’s not just about resolving governance issues, but about helping boards transform into more effective, strategic bodies that can guide organizations toward long-term success. You get to engage deeply with complex challenges, offering creative solutions that address not only structural or procedural problems but also relational dynamics. Building trusted relationships with board members allows you to influence the decision-making process, fostering collaboration and alignment. This combination of problem-solving, relationship-building, and seeing the tangible impact of your work on an organization’s future is what makes this role so fulfilling.”
Hannah Duchnycz, Associate
What did you want to be when you grew up?
“A nurse.”
What inspires you about working with boards?
“The most rewarding aspect of my work with boards and CEOs in executive recruitment and director nomination support is the opportunity to connect with individuals on a personal level. We all bring our unique experiences—and yes, our “baggage”—to the table. Stepping into someone’s life during pivotal moments is a privilege, and I enjoy hearing what inspires them and what truly fills their cups. It’s remarkable to witness how individuals contribute on various levels, reminding me that we are so much more than our job titles. I take pride in facilitating these connections and helping shape leaders who make a positive impact in their organizations and communities. This human connection is what fuels my passion and energy in this work.”
Robyn Curry, Associate
What did you want to be when you grew up?
“Everything! My ideal profession changed drastically anything from astronaut to ballerina. I wanted (and still want) to experience it all.”
What inspires you about working with boards?
“I value getting to know the individuals on the boards and truly understanding how they think, what they value, and how they want to strengthen the organizations for which they serve.”
Ming Pilz, Consultant
What did you want to be when you grew up?
“A train conductor.”
What inspires you about working with boards?
“Work on a board is an opportunity to amplify the positive impact a single person can have.“
Rachel O’Connor, Partner
What did you want to be when you grew up?
“I always felt anxious because everyone else seemed to have a plan, and I had lots of evolving interests. In hindsight, that’s shaped my career in a positive way- exploring interesting and rewarding work versus having a fixed idea of what I wanted to be!”
What inspires you about working with boards?
“We truly do get to help boards shape the future of their organizations, and through that make meaningful impact on people, economies and communities. What a gift that is. And along the way, we get to learn from and about great organizations and the people who lead them.”
As we honour Women’s History Month, we celebrate the past, present, and future contributions of women in governance. We are excited to be part of a world where women’s voices continue to shape the future of organizations and communities everywhere.
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