The Team Behind the Team: Introducing Tanya, Controller at The Joseph Richard Group.

What is your most memorable travel experience?

A Spontaneous trip to Vegas with 4 friends. We were having a few drinks one night and in our intoxicated state decided we should go to Vegas. The one designated driver drove us to each of our houses & we had 5 minutes to pack. We drove to the airport & just hopped on the next plane going to Vegas. When we got into the hotel I opened my bag to discover I had really only packed some socks – turns out five minutes wasn’t enough to get my brain working. ……We had so much fun!

What accomplishment are you most proud of?

I volunteer and help parents with children that have a mild to moderate disabilities navigate through the Surrey School system.

What do you like to do in your spare time?

I am a horse girl. So when I am not at work I am at a horse competition or our horse barn.

What is your most embarrassing moment?

I was in Mexico a couple of years back with a friend… we went to this dance club called Coco Bongo – it’s huge, & packed!!! Anyways they have this big stage & in between shows they select two people to dance up on stage. For some reason they selected me & my friend. I did not want to do it but a few tequila shots later my friend dragged me up. So I danced on stage in front of the whole club then they project your image onto these huge TV screens. It was fun but sooo embarrassing to be on the spot like that and I don’t think I am the best dancer. But hey tequila is a great courage builder I guess!

If you could possess one super-human power, what would it be?

See into the future!

What are the main lessons you’ve learned in life?

To treat others the way you wish to be treated. Also karma always works its magic.

Have you made any mistakes that helped or hurt you in a way that you would like to share?

Being in a hurry & not stopping to enjoy life’s precious moments. You don’t realize how special or amazing they are if you’re always rushing to the next thing.

Do you have any special or important dates that mean something to you? If so what are they?

My son was born with a developmental disability. He was finally diagnosed at the age of two with a condition called developmental co-ordination disorder. His condition effected his speech, walking, hands and fine- motor skills.  It was the hardest challenge I have ever faced. It was also what has taught me the biggest lessons in life. The doctors told me if I devoted myself to his care, therapy & treatment he would have a chance to fully recover. So that’s what I did for 8 years. Ty worked so hard at his therapies, he was amazing. My family & friends were also a great support. It was a long hard struggle for everyone but on May 12,2013 he was assessed and the doctors told me he had fully recovered. It was literally the best day of my life.

Do you have any pet peeves?

People that don’t reply to a text or email.

What inspires you to do good?

Being a mom & having to look at yourself in the mirror.

What things do you find yourself doing that you said you’d never do?

I took up running. I used to say the only way I would run is if someone was chasing me.

What was your best job?

This one of course!!

How did you end up with The Joseph Richard Group?

I have known Ryan & Andre for years and worked with them on previous ventures. Ryan approached me to come on with JRG, how could I resist!?

Do you have children?

I have a daughter who is 13 & a son who is 10.

What is your goal as a parent?

Help form them into outstanding human beings. Confidence, drive & determination is key. Being nice & helpful to all humans is important as well.

What does the word “family” mean to you?

Loyalty, love, devotion & strength.

Who are you closest to in your family?

My sister is my best friend and always has been!  She inspires me every day to be a better person. She pushes me when I need it. She supports me in times I need an extra hand.

Have you had your heart broken?

Yup

Have you broken any hearts?

Yup

What are your biggest challenges?

Being one of the only women in a predominately male industry, although JRG soars far and above other Hospitality groups with their men:women ratio.

Where do you see yourself (& the company) in 2 years?

Umm Ryan & Andre have amazing vision for all their JRG executives so I will leave it in their hands to determine my path!  It is such an exciting time!