Vivian Ashford: The Woman Blending Business Savvy and Personal Resilience
When I first sat down with Vivian Ashford, her energy was infectious—equal parts warmth and business acumen. Ashford is a force to be reckoned with, a business consultant with a passion for personal growth, who has built a name for herself through strategic leadership and genuine connections. “I’ve always believed that business is just as much about relationships as it is about strategy,” she tells me, leaning forward with the kind of intensity that lets you know she means business.
From Small Town to Big Dreams
Ashford’s journey began in Saskatoon, Canada, where she grew up in a small, tight-knit community. “I knew early on that I wanted more,” she recalls. “Not more in a material sense, but more experiences, more challenges.” After completing her Business Administration degree from the University of Virginia, Ashford continued to push herself, earning an MBA from NYU’s Stern School of Business.
“That was a game-changer,” she says of her MBA. “It gave me the tools and confidence to dive into business consulting and really make an impact.”
The Bain & Company Experience
Her early career included a stint as a Junior Strategy Analyst at Bain & Company, where she quickly rose through the ranks. Ashford reflects on her time there fondly. “Bain gave me my foundation in strategic thinking,” she explains. “I learned that every challenge has multiple angles—sometimes, the answer is just a matter of looking at it differently.”
During her time at Bain, Ashford was known for bringing innovative solutions to complex problems, earning the trust of high-profile clients. “I think what set me apart was my ability to listen—to really hear what the client needed, not just what they thought they needed.”
Consulting for Change at ENG2
Today, Ashford is a consultant at ENG2, where she helps businesses thrive by implementing scalable solutions and developing strong leadership teams. Her work isn’t just about numbers and strategies—it’s about creating sustainable change. “I’ve seen too many businesses focus on short-term wins,” she says. “I’m here to help them think long-term—about people, processes, and purpose.”
Her colleagues describe her as a master connector—someone who brings out the best in teams and clients alike. “Relationships are at the heart of everything I do,” Ashford explains. “Whether it’s a client or a colleague, I believe that meaningful connections drive better results.”
Navigating Life’s Challenges with Grace
Ashford’s success hasn’t come without challenges. Growing up, she faced significant personal obstacles, but those experiences only made her more determined. “I went through some tough times early on, but they shaped me,” she shares. “They gave me resilience, and that’s something I carry into every part of my life and work.”
Her ability to balance personal challenges with professional excellence is one of the reasons why her clients and colleagues hold her in such high regard. “You can’t control everything that happens to you,” she reflects, “but you can control how you respond.”
The Road Ahead
Looking to the future, Ashford is focused on expanding her consulting reach and continuing to mentor young professionals. “I want to help others unlock their potential,” she says. “It’s not just about hitting business goals; it’s about building a life that aligns with your values.”
Ashford is also exploring ways to integrate personal growth principles into business consulting. “At the end of the day, business is personal,” she says with a smile. “When you grow as a person, everything else follows.”
Vivian Ashford’s story is one of perseverance, strategy, and heart. From her roots in Saskatoon to her current role at ENG2, she exemplifies what it means to lead with purpose. As our conversation ends, she leaves me with one last piece of wisdom: “Success isn’t about what you achieve—it’s about who you become along the way.”
Follow Vivian Ashford’s journey and get inspired by her work at ENG2.