The 2022 Top Consultants: Barbi Goldstein

Barbi Goldstein is a managing director with global consulting firm Protiviti, based in New York. With more than 20 years' experience providing Protiviti's financial services industry clients with tailored solutions for their risk and controls, internal audit and SOX compliance requirements, she is currently the global strategic account manager for one of the world's largest financial services organizations. From 2019-2021, Barbi also served as Protiviti's Global Innovation Leader, responsible for enhancing the firm's reputation by providing innovative consulting solutions to complex business problems. Barbi serves on the Audit Committee of the Plainview-Old Bethpage School district in New York. She holds a Bachelor of Science degree in business administration and economics from the University at Albany.

What do you enjoy most about your career in the consulting industry?

I love the learning. Every business challenge is new and interesting, and on every project, I learn not only about the topic but also more about people. A career in consulting has given me the opportunity to meet so many new people and understand their different perspectives and experiences. I learn so much from everyone I encounter, and it helps me grow.

What is your proudest achievement to date?

Honestly, I'm most proud to be an executive and a mom. Of course, it's not always easy, but it's amazing to know that I can accomplish things both at work and at home. I believe my career helps my children to develop a strong work ethic and an understanding that if you want certain things in life, it takes hard work. Thomas Edison said, ""We often miss opportunity because it's dressed in overalls and looks like work." While we don't typically wear overalls, it takes a lot of hard work in the office and at home to achieve the successes we seek.

What's the best advice you've ever been given?

Take risks and don't be afraid to fail. New challenges can be scary and intimidating, but I've learned that people wouldn't offer you those opportunities if they didn't have confidence in you. You'll be amazed with yourself once you tackle something you didn't think you could, and your confidence just builds in anticipation of the next new challenge.