The 2023 Rising Stars of the Profession: Tayla Dragicevic

Tayla Dragicevic is a Senior Manager in the consulting practice of Ernst & Young LLP. She has over 14 years of experience working in a variety of IT process, risk & control services including internal audit projects, various IT compliance projects, third party reporting, cybersecurity, IT general controls review and information technology security, as well as extensive experience in project management and execution of integrated financial audits for clients utilizing a variety of technologies & systems. In the past year, she has consistently helped EY teams navigate various client challenges, internal difficulties and personal changes. She has planned social events, established a monthly wellness day, taken on new counselees, organized trainings, connected professionals and cultivated EY/client relationships.

Tayla is agile and adaptable. Throughout her career at EY she has stepped into several unique roles. She has lead the Americas Tech Risk practice growth and go-to-market efforts for attestation and ESG. A mother of two young children, she continues to mentor others on many aspects of life, including work, family, medical challenges, and how to integrate our work and personal lives in a healthy, productive way.

What would you say has been the biggest factor in your success so far? Positivity and energy. Many of us are able to get the job done. But I believe it is the attitude and spirit you bring to each interaction that creates a leader. What do you enjoy most about your career in the consulting industry? No two days are ever the same. Even if you are on the same engagement, each day brings a fresh perspective or challenge to tackle.

What is your proudest achievement to date?

It is the intersection of so many things over the past few years. Becoming a mother and building a balance that allows me to have a deep relationship with my children. Forging past the brain tumor that paralyzed half my face and thriving in my career against all odds. I am proud I haven't let anything hold me back. I reflect upon everything I have done, and I am proud of every moment.

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

"You can be that person. Just be that person." As you approach every major milestone, have confidence in yourself that you can be that leader that role model. You are capable.

What does this recognition mean to you?

This honor reaffirms all the hard work I have put in over the past two years and reminds me not to take it out of overdrive.