The 2022 Women Leaders in Consulting: Nicole Kilby

As a Principal, in the Consumer Products, Retail and Logistics section of Infosys, Nicole is a catalyst for change in the workplace, fostering a diverse, egalitarian and inclusive environment for all. As a Scrum Master by trade, she infuses her teachings with a people-centered strategy to build bridges – connecting resources and talent across cultures, races, genders and socioeconomic factors – fostering a sense of community that allows colleagues to bring their whole selves to work by recognizing and supporting their intersectional identities.

What do you consider your greatest personal or professional achievement?

My greatest personal achievement thus far is being a role model and using my voice to uplift others by creating venues and platforms to empower and elevate others; it's how I pay it forward to those that have paved the way for me.

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

My advice to a female consultant who is just starting out is: "Nobody remembers you because you were in the crowd. However, people will remember you for standing out." I would encourage them to bring their authentic self to work and always to have a student mentality as the best aspect of consulting is the ability to be an innovator. Innovation requires not only diversity of thought but also experience and insights. So stay true to yourself and never lose sight of your je ne sais quoi.

What do you enjoy most about your consulting career?

The most enjoyable aspect of my consulting career is the opportunity to bring out the best in organizations and teams by providing tools and insights to solve problems. Moreover, a career in consulting enables you to maintain a student mentality. A student mentality encourages continuous evolution and growth, cultivates active listening skills, and inspires exploration and challenge of the ordinary while making a real-world impact.

What's the best advice—personal or professional—you've ever received?

Early in my career, the best advice I received was to create a sense of community and master empathy. Building a sense of community not only promotes innovation and growth but also provides a valuable opportunity for others to learn from you, providing support and encouragement, all of which are essential for professional development. Additionally, the ability to master empathy enhances critical indicators like workplace morale, productivity and retention—all of which influence the bottom line.

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

Being named a Leader in Consulting is an honor. The greatest feeling in the world for me is to reciprocate all the support, lessons, and knowledge I've received from career champions, advocates, mentors, and accountability partners who have shaped who I am. This recognition affirms that having a community that supports and advocates for the underrepresented is an invaluable benefit that motivates and inspires people like me to keep going.