By: Broad Oaks Consulting
“There is no substitute for the work.” – Angela Burgess
Angela Burgess’s career trajectory is a testament to the power of seizing opportunities and breaking through barriers. Starting as an institutional 401(k) enrollment specialist due to her public speaking prowess and bilingual abilities, Angela quickly ascended to become an Assistant Branch Manager at Smith Barney at the young age of 28. Among 220 managers, she stood out not only as the 19th woman but also as the youngest, marking a significant milestone in her career and in the wealth management industry.
Angela’s journey highlights a critical issue in professional environments: the wage disparity between genders. Addressing this, Angela shares insights from her mentoring experiences. “There’s so much conversation and data surrounding the wage disparity for women,” she noted, emphasizing a common oversight that many women make—they do not ask. A Hewlett-Packard internal study revealed that men often apply for positions even if they meet just 60% of the qualifications, whereas women hesitate unless they meet all. Angela challenges this norm, encouraging women to apply confidence and assertiveness in their career approaches.
This philosophy of empowerment and strategic risk-taking informed her leadership at Broad Oaks Consulting, a firm dedicated to transforming nonprofit organizations. Just as she navigated her path in the competitive finance sector, she now guides nonprofits through similar terrain, helping them break through fundraising barriers and operational stagnation.
“Taking risks doesn’t come easily to most,” Angela said. That’s why she wrote, “Are You on the Right Bus? Navigating Change on the Road to Success,” which reached bestseller status in several categories last year. Her aim was to inspire people to embrace their passions and gifts to break through their own barriers to fulfillment and success.
Empowering Nonprofits to Excel
Broad Oaks Consulting operates on the premise that running a successful nonprofit is akin to managing a robust business. The firm provides an array of services tailored to uplift nonprofit organizations. These include strategic consultations, custom philanthropy training, and practical steps towards sustainable growth. Their approach is built on the foundation of clarity and planning—critical elements that Angela mastered during her time in wealth management and asset protection.
Nonprofits often find themselves on the edge of breakthroughs without a clear path forward. Broad Oaks Consulting steps in to map out this journey, ensuring that organizations are not only dreaming of a brighter world but are also equipped with the tools to make it a reality. “Creating a more charitable and just world doesn’t have to be this difficult,” the company ethos suggests, pointing towards a solution-oriented approach that has reshaped how nonprofits envision success and impact.
Structured Pathways to Impact
The firm offers a structured three-step process to aid nonprofits in their mission. The journey begins with a complimentary consultation, allowing Angela and her team to understand the unique challenges faced by each organization. This initial conversation is crucial—it sets the stage for a tailored strategy that aligns with the specific needs and goals of the nonprofit.
Following the consultation, Broad Oaks Consulting develops custom training programs. These programs are designed to enhance the skills of nonprofit teams, equipping them with the knowledge to navigate the complex landscape of fundraising and leadership effectively. The intentionality behind these training sessions underscores the firm’s commitment to not just temporary aid but lasting change.
The final step in Broad Oaks Consulting’s approach is enabling nonprofits to focus on their core mission. With the right tools and strategies in place, organizations can divert their energy towards making a significant impact, rather than getting bogged down by operational challenges.
Looking Ahead: A Vision for Sustainable Growth
As Angela Burgess continues to lead Broad Oaks Consulting, her vision for a world where nonprofits thrive is more relevant than ever. Her dual expertise in finance and nonprofit sectors provides a unique blend of insights that drive the firm’s success. Angela’s journey from breaking glass ceilings in finance to redefining nonprofit success illustrates a powerful narrative of leadership, innovation, and unwavering determination.
Nonprofits that partner with Broad Oaks Consulting are not just investing in immediate solutions but are setting themselves up for long-term success. Angela’s leadership philosophy, emphasizing strategic action and inclusivity, continues to inspire and empower a new generation of leaders across sectors. As these organizations look to the future, Angela Burgess and Broad Oaks Consulting stand ready to guide them along a path marked by growth, impact, and the fulfillment of their most ambitious visions.
Published by: Holy Minoza
