The 2020 Rising Stars of the Profession: Marty Kinnavy

Marty Kinnavy can attribute at least some of this Rising Stars of the Profession recognition to reality TV. He didn't set out to have a career in consulting, but coming out of school he took a position as a research analyst at a risk-focused consulting firm where he was responsible for conducting background investigations on reality television show contestants. 

"I found that I really enjoyed the work, and that consulting suited me," Kinnavy says. "That position opened up other opportunities in financial services and investigations consulting, which led me to where I am today."

And where he is today is a Managing Director at FTI Consulting and a Rising Star of the Profession. 

"I'm extremely proud of the engagements where I've been able to help clients in difficult situations, such as remediation for financial institutions under regulatory scrutiny, or helping organizations investigate fraud and financial crimes such as bribery, kickbacks, and embezzlement," he says. "In my practice, clients often call on their worst day, and it's very rewarding to help them through tough times. I am also very proud of my work mentoring others. I've had several mentees in my career, and it has been extremely satisfying seeing them grow and achieve their goals."

Kinnavy says the biggest factor to his success has been a willingness to extend himself and say "yes" to things even if they're outside his comfort zone. "While it's been important to know my limits, there's no growth unless you push yourself and try new things," he says. "What has always excited me most about consulting is that each day brings something new. There are always clients with new problems to solve and new things to learn."

And as far as winning a Rising Star of the Profession award, Kinnavy says that having worked with many exceptional consultants in my career, he is honored to be recognized by his industry peers as a Rising Star of the Profession. 

"Winning this Rising Star of the Profession award makes me thankful for those who have helped me along the way and makes me excited to continue my professional journey and for the opportunities and challenges the future will bring."

Q&A: What's the best advice—personal or professional—you've ever received? 

Kinnavy: "To slow down, be intentional with what you pay attention to, and remember your principles. With so many competing priorities and demands on our time, it's easy to lose track of yourself and what's important, but in order to succeed you need stay focused and true to yourself."