Donna Baker, co-founder and managing partner, Keynote Group

June 26, 2018

Editor's Note

Each year, OBJ and the Ottawa Chamber of Commerce choose 40 of the region’s top young entrepreneurs and business executives and recognize them for their professional achievements, expertise and community service.

In these profiles, OBJ highlights some of this year’s recipients – their impressive accomplishments, what drives them and how they like to spend their downtime away from the business world.

See the full list of recipient profiles here and be sure to check out OBJ’s coverage of the 2018 gala here.

Birthplace: Cambridge, UK

Company: Keynote Group helps organizations find, ensure fit and retain top talent.

Education: Bachelor of science in psychology, University of Birmingham (2001)

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Charitable involvement: Ottawa Regional Cancer Foundation, Queensway Carleton Hospital Foundation, University of Ottawa Heart Institute, Family Enterprise Xchange

Biggest biz achievement: Keynote Group being named one of Ottawa’s fastest-growing companies by OBJ in 2018.

Biggest biz obstacle: Making the tough decisions to exit two of the original partners in Keynote Group.

Biggest influence: My husband and business partner, James. He makes me be the best version of myself and ensures that we are always moving forward and trying new things.

Biggest lesson learned: That you cannot do it all yourself. You need to build an incredible team around you in order to fully achieve your potential.

First job: Delivering newspapers

Advice I’d give the younger me: Set massive goals that make you think past your current reality.

What’s left to do: Professionally, to see how successful we can make Keynote Group. Personally, to raise our two boys to become well-rounded, respectful individuals.

Favourite pastime: Running

I’m currently reading: The Long Road to Boston by Mark Sutcliffe

Favourite movie: Harry Potter – all of them.

Favourite song: Human by The Killers

Favourite local pro sports team: Ottawa Senators

Favourite local summer event: Ottawa Bluesfest

Preferred social media platforms: Facebook, Linkedin, Instagram