Makenzie Brown

When I reflect on my career journey, I’m amazed by how far I’ve come and how every experience — even the unexpected ones — has contributed to my growth. I began as a pharmacy technician, where I developed a strong foundation in precision, accountability, and attention to detail. I quickly realized that the skills I valued most — accuracy, focus, and problem-solving — were transferable and deeply rewarding. That realization inspired my transition into finance, a field where I could continue leveraging my strengths while expanding my career opportunities. While the transition was challenging, it has been one of the most fulfilling decisions of my professional life.

At Allied, I’ve been fortunate to grow both personally and professionally. In 2023, I was honored to receive both a Spot Award and an Allied All-Star Award for my auditing work. These recognitions were meaningful not only because they celebrated my efforts, but because they reflected the mentorship, collaboration, and support of my incredible team.

My journey from pharmacy to finance hasn’t been a straight path, but it’s one I am proud of. Every challenge, lesson, and achievement has shaped me into the professional I am today — adaptable, driven, and committed to continuous growth.

The best career advice I’ve ever received came from my manager, Kimberly Mantia, who has had a profound impact on my journey. She taught me to view constructive criticism as an opportunity for growth rather than something to take personally. Her guidance has encouraged me to embrace feedback, refine my skills, and approach challenges with greater confidence and clarity.

If there’s one thing I’ve learned in my journey, it’s that growth rarely happens in your comfort zone. Every time I’ve taken a leap — whether it was changing careers, taking on a new project, or learning something unfamiliar — it has led me to opportunities I never imagined.

My advice to young women entering this industry is to be patient with yourself but stay persistent. Success doesn’t happen overnight, and that’s okay. What matters most is showing up each day with integrity, curiosity, and a willingness to learn.

Don’t let the fear of criticism hold you back. Early in my career, I often took feedback personally, but I’ve since learned that constructive feedback is one of the most powerful tools for growth. The people who challenge you — respectfully and honestly — are often the ones who help you improve the most.

Finally, never lose sight of your values. For me, honesty and integrity guide every decision. When your work aligns with your principles, it feels meaningful, and people notice your authenticity. Whether you’re just starting out or navigating a new chapter, trust the journey, keep learning, and remember that dedication, a clear mind, and a genuine heart can take you farther than you ever imagined.

The values that guide both my work and personal life are honesty and integrity. I believe in standing up for what I believe in and building trust in every interaction. In finance, trust is the foundation of success. Whether I’m analyzing data, collaborating with my team, or making key decisions, I strive to be transparent, reliable, and committed to doing things the right way — not just doing them.

Outside of work, my family is my greatest passion. I have four young daughters who inspire me every day. I’m also drawn to farm life and have always loved animals, especially cows. One of my dreams is to one day own a small homestead farm, which keeps me grounded and reminds me of the simple joys in life. Working remotely gives me the flexibility to nurture that dream while balancing my professional and personal commitments.