by Kate Barton, Americas Vice Chair Tax Services, Ernst & Young
In October 2012, I spoke at a Tax Coalition luncheon held near the U.S. Capitol about my experiences in rising to a leadership position in the tax practice of a Big Four professional-services firm. The Tax Coalition is an association of female tax officials from two dozen Fortune 100 companies, lobbying firms, trade associations and Congress.
I figured I didn’t need to lecture this esteemed audience on how to succeed in business because they were already high achievers. Still, my talk quickly became a dialogue, and I was fascinated that the conversation repeatedly turned to issues such as pay equity, work-life integration, inclusiveness and glass ceilings. They were especially interested in how to mentor and sponsor the next generation of women entering the field.
