The 2022 Women Leaders in Consulting: Kyla Curley

A Partner with StoneTurn, Kyla has over 20 years of experience investigating and making sense of complex and sensitive issues involving financial fraud, misuse and misappropriation, as well as analyzing the flow of funds and other transactional reviews for organizations, counsel and other stakeholders. Kyla's experience includes investigations into the flow and usage of funds, and transaction lifecycle reviews of institutional and private investments, acquisitions and other significant activity.

Kyla is also experienced with cryptocurrencies and blockchain technology and transactions. As a Certified Cryptocurrency Forensic Investigator (CCFI), Kyla conducts reviews into digital asset lifecycles to assist investors, law enforcement professionals, or other stakeholders to identify and isolate digital assets, and to assist with recovery, when applicable. Kyla has long mentored rising leaders at the firm, and seeks opportunities to showcase their skills and capabilities. Kyla also guides our team members to take ownership of their careers and helps find resources to make this possible. More recently, Kyla formalized her mentorship of women into a firmwide initiative in WE@ST (Women Empowered at StoneTurn). Through WE@ST, Kyla has not only expanded how the firm elevates women across offices, but she has also encouraged an environment where everyone can get involved.

What do you consider your greatest personal or professional achievement?

My journey with StoneTurn started the day the firm opened for business and continues over 18 years later. I'm extremely proud, both personally and professionally, of the firm we've created, including a strong and pervasive culture of empathy, collaboration and inclusion. Over the years, I've admired the various women's initiatives and programming publicized by consulting and advisory firms and have often thought about what components would work well (or not) at StoneTurn. Recently, I finally put those daydreams into action through the formation of WE@ST (Women Empowered @ StoneTurn). While I take pride in what we've accomplished thus far, I will be most proud when I can look back and see how WE@ST contributed to the continued success of the firm and especially the women who drive that success.

What's the best advice—consulting or otherwise—you've ever received?

Business development is not selling, it is relationship building. The essence of "selling" in consulting is to help people solve their problems – and to understand what those are. To build trust and become a trusted resource, one must develop a real relationship, which will incorporate both a personal camaraderie and a belief you are capable of helping. And in many cases, the help may not involve an immediate financial benefit to you. And never buy a monthly commuting or transportation pass – you're guaranteed to be on a plane within 48 hours of purchase.

What advice would you give to a female consultant just beginning her career?

It is absolutely OK to love your job and make it a priority in your life. My "identity" is many things, including a career I've worked hard to build over the 20 years and am fortunate to enjoy, as well as the mom of two spirited and outspoken (but adorable) children. Also, be confident in who you are and your capabilities, and open yourself to new opportunities, particularly those that nudge you out of your self-induced comfort level.

Finally, for anyone starting their career, I would encourage them to practice and learn to bring empathy to every interaction with clients and co-workers. In client interactions, empathy leads to a greater and holistic understanding of your client's needs and the right solution to meet those needs.

What does being honored as a Woman Leader in Consulting mean to you?

It is a tremendous honor and validates the time and effort I've placed on my own career, as well as working toward the professional and business development of my colleagues, especially my fellow women professionals.