Kelly Davidson’s professional photo
Kelly Davidson’s transition from a curious UBCO student to a finance professional showcases the power of embracing opportunities. As one of Kelowna’s Top 40 Under 40, Kelly’s journey began at UBCO’s Faculty of Management, where her initial career uncertainty was transformed into a passion for finance. Davidson credits UBCO’s supportive environment and dynamic curriculum played a crucial role in shaping her work ethic and career trajectory. Today, as an Investment Associate and Associate Portfolio Manager at Odlum Brown, Kelly navigates complex wealth management with expertise honed by four professional designations and the esteemed title of Fellow of the Canadian Securities Institute. Throughout her journey, Kelly has been steadfast in her resolution to give back to Kelowna, mentoring future professionals and contributing to her community. Davidson suggests that it is her experiences with UBCO’s Faculty of Management that helped shape her path.
Q: Can you tell us a bit about your career journey and how you got to where you are today?
A: I spent a lot of time networking and being out in the community throughout my degree. I wasn’t sure what I wanted to do upon graduation, so I focused my energy on meeting new people and being open to opportunities. I met Doug Chambers at a Management Student Association (MSA) event in my third year, and he encouraged me to consider a career in finance. I was hesitant at first as that wasn’t where I had ever pictured myself, but I took a leap of faith and started at Odlum Brown in 2016, and it’s one of the best decisions I’ve ever made! Today, I am an Investment Associate and Associate Portfolio Manager and I work on a team that offers comprehensive wealth management and planning services to business owners, professionals, high-net-worth individuals, and families. Since graduation, I’ve acquired four professional designations that have equipped me with the skills and expertise to help clients of all ages and stages of life. I love what I do and I’m so grateful that my path led me here.
Q: What are some key lessons you’ve learned throughout your career?
A: The biggest lesson I’ve learned in my career is the importance of clear communication. Whether it’s in business or in a personal context, learning how to clearly and confidently communicate your message is the best way to strengthen relationships and achieve positive outcomes.
Q: Can you share a significant challenge you faced in your career and how you successfully overcame it?
A: Building on my answer above, the biggest challenge I’ve faced is learning how to communicate effectively. Transitioning from student life to corporate life is a big change – suddenly you’re faced with hard conversations and decisions, managing professional relationships, dealing with stressful client situations, and learning to negotiate with your employer. It’s intimidating and clunky at first, but like most things in life, it gets easier with time and experience.
Q: What is a project or accomplishment that you are particularly proud of?
A: Personally, my proudest accomplishment is earning my black belt in Taekwondo. Professionally, my proudest accomplishment is becoming a Fellow of the Canadian Securities Institute, which is the highest honour in Canadian financial services.
Q: How do you balance your professional responsibilities with your personal life?
A: Time blocking is my secret sauce to schedule management. I try to be diligent about pre-booking “me time” in my calendar so that I don’t burn myself out. I found early in my career that if I wasn’t blocking time to eat lunch and go to the gym I just wouldn’t. My calendar runs my life so if it’s in there, it’ll get done!
Q: In what ways did the Bachelor of Management program at UBCO contribute to your career success?
A: My experience at UBCO taught me the value of seizing opportunities. Students at UBCO are so lucky – they get the small campus feel with the big campus opportunities. From conferences and student politics to case studies and competitions, I learned so much in and out of the classroom. These experiences sent me into the workforce ready to work hard and try new things. I would absolutely attribute my success to the grit and work ethic I learned in my degree.
Q: What advice would you give to current Bachelor of Management students who aspire to achieve similar success?
A: Take advantage of opportunities outside of the classroom. Whether that’s joining a club, running in student politics, doing Go Global, or joining JDC West. You will have a ton of fun and gain an incredible amount of experience.
Q: Are there any memorable experiences or memories from your time in the Bachelor of Management program that stand out to you?
A: Through applying for funding from the Management Student Association and the Tuum Est Student Initiative Fund, I was able to go to some life-changing conferences where I made business connections and friendships that I still have today!
Q: How do you envision your future career development?
A: I have recently moved into a new chapter in my career in which I am taking on my own clients under the mentorship and guidance of my mentor and supervising portfolio manager, Doug Chambers. If there are alumni out there interested in learning how our team can help you optimize your investments and financial plan,* I’d love to speak with you!
*Available through Odlum Brown Financial Services Limited, a wholly owned subsidiary of Odlum Brown offering life insurance products and tax, retirement, estate and financial planning exclusively to Odlum Brown clients.
Q: Do you have anything else you would like to share?
A: I’m still very actively involved in the community through a number of organizations, charities, and events. If there are alumni out there moving back to Kelowna and looking for ways to get involved, I’d love to connect!
Kelly Davidson helping out at the BC Cancer Event