The newest member of the Switchboard Team is a uniquely gifted developer of strategic action plans that propel clients forward. By combining world-class credentials in Performance Psychology with extensive journalism and corporate communications experience, Leslie has successfully positioned dozens of blue-chip, entrepreneurial and government clients to achieve and surpass their goals. She has worked in senior executive roles at creative agencies as well as client-side, across diverse industries. Leslie joined us in August and has quickly become an integral part of our team.

Tell us a little about yourself…

I’m a global citizen and have lived and worked all over the world. I recently moved back to Canada with my family after living in Sydney, Australia for 15 years. I’ve had an eclectic career centred around communications and a strong desire to influence and impact others.  My background is in performance psychology and I’ve worked as a journalist, radio host, communications strategist, PR and marketing consultant, university lecturer, trainer, seminar presenter and corporate leadership coach. Sometimes all at the same time! 

What do you love about working at Switchboard?

I love that I get to work with a super smart team that is dedicated to client service and are passionate about what they do. The environment is very fast-paced and the client work is very topical.

What motivates you to work hard?

I’m motivated by curiosity, the constant need for intellectual stimulation, and a sense of accomplishment. 

What is your favourite book?

I loved the book – I Do Not Come to You by Chance- by Adaobi Tricia Nwaubani, it’s about the perilous world of Nigerian email scams. As a voracious reader, I’m always so thrilled when I come upon an original story.  I spent 18 months as a freelance journo travelling overland from London to Capetown, South Africa, with a long stopover in Lagos,  so I have a particular interest in African literature.   

Tell us three interesting facts about you…

1. I have 3 citizenships- Canadian, British and Australian. 
   
2. I have lived/worked /travelled to 65 countries and still counting. Growing up, I went to 23 schools ( no- not an army brat) crisscrossing countries and cultures.
   
3. I have done a lot of travel writing and had a radio show “ Adventure Mum” where I reported from remote locations with my young son.

If you could eat one meal for the rest of your life what would it be and why?

Prosciutto and melon – it’s sunshine and Italian lazy days on a plate.

If you could choose to do anything for a day, what would it be?

Walk a tropical beach – after living beachside in Sydney I miss those daily walks the most! 

Besides the necessities, what one thing could you not go a day without?

Do you even need to ask? Chocolate!