CAREER & NETWORKING FAIR 2026 - PANEL DISCUSSION

Life of a Business Analyst Consultant

Part of the IIBA Ottawa-Outaouais Career & Networking Fair, Life of a BA Consultant is a candid panel discussion for business analysts curious about consulting, newly entering the field, or looking to grow a sustainable practice. Drawing from real experiences, panelists will share how they got started, what the work is really like, and what it takes to succeed today.

This 45-minute session will feature experienced BA consultants discussing the realities of the role through stories, insights, and audience interaction.

What to expect

Panelists will open with brief origin stories, then explore common themes such as the realities of consulting work, common challenges, and different career paths. You'll also have an opportunity to ask your questions about consulting life and practical challenges.

When: 2:00–2:45 PM

Format: Panel discussion + open audience Q&A

Note: As it is only 45 minutes, the session will start promptly at 2 p.m. 

Meet the panelists

PATRICK VAN ABBEMA, MBA, CMC, PMP, CBAP
Executive Management Consultant, AltNexus Corporation 

Patrick van Abbema is an accomplished senior project executive and AI strategist, recognized for his extensive expertise in leading large-scale digital and business-driven transformations across the government and private sectors. With over 30 years of professional experience, Patrick excels at aligning artificial intelligence initiatives with strategic business goals to deliver measurable, sustainable outcomes.

His distinguished career includes successfully steering complex, high-stakes projects and organizational change initiatives. Patrick specializes in integrating AI strategies with robust governance frameworks, effectively managing risks, optimizing operational processes, and mentoring executive teams through transformational change.

As a recognized thought leader, Patrick’s approach combines strategic vision with tactical execution, breaking down organizational silos to achieve cross-functional alignment and measurable ROI. He is exceptionally skilled at translating complex AI insights into practical leadership guidance, empowering executives and organizations to leverage AI responsibly and effectively.

Patrick currently serves as senior instructor at both the Schulich School of Business at York University and the Sprott School of Business at Carleton University. In these roles, he teaches executive-level programs on AI strategy, business transformation, and project leadership, drawing on decades of experience advising senior leaders on scaling innovation through governance, trust, and clarity.

Patrick holds an MBA with a specialization in Management Consulting, as well as advanced certifications as a Certified Management Consultant (CMC), a Project Management Professional (PMP), and a Certified Business Analysis Professional (CBAP). His unique blend of technical acumen, strategic leadership, and practical industry experience provides clients with relevant, real-world insights to successfully lead and manage AI-driven projects and organizational transformations.

LinkedIn | https://www.linkedin.com/in/pvanabbema/

EMILY TOM, CBAP
Independent Business Analysis Consultant, Speaker, Mentor

Emily Tom, CBAP is an independent consultant based in Ottawa, Canada. She is an aspiring writer and speaker and is passionate about promoting the business analysis profession. She supports fellow business analysts in their careers through knowledge sharing and mentorship.

As a leader and a practicing business analyst, Emily first-hand experience in getting to know and understand stakeholders in order to achieve positive results.

Connect with Emily on LinkedIn:

linkedin.com/in/emily-tom-cbap-59190453

KRISTIE MARR, CBAP
Independent Business Analysis Consultant
Kristie Marr, CBAP ®, is an independent business analysis consultant with over 20 years of experience helping organizations deliver complex business and technology change across the federal government, healthcare-related initiatives, and financial services. Throughout her career, she has specialized in turning complex business, policy, data, and operational needs into clear requirements, actionable documentation, and practical solutions. Kristie has worked in agile, hybrid, and traditional delivery environments and is recognized for bringing structure, clarity, and strong stakeholder collaboration to teams navigating complex or evolving challenges. She is committed to continuous learning, solving problems, and helping teams deliver value that makes a real difference. A core part of her consulting approach is building capacity by leaving clients with stronger business analysis skills, better practices, and greater confidence for the future.

Facilitator

MICHAEL LACHAPELLE
Independent Consultant, Business Model Fulcrum
Michael has more than 25 years of experience in business design, enterprise business analysis, strategic management, and business, product and service innovation. An independent consultant, Michael works with senior executives and managers, helping them better align, communicate and change the way they do business. He has worked with clients from many sectors: private, public, not-for-profit, member-based organizations and government. His clients range from established multi-national organisations and businesses to small enterprises and early-stage startups. He coaches individuals and small teams, helps organisations implement business design methods, and facilitates product, service and business innovation initiatives. Michael is a member of the core development team for Mobius Outcome Delivery and is a Strategyzer certified Business Model Canvas coach and consultant.