JESSICA LYNN

Jessica Lynn is a manager in KPMG’s Pittsburgh office where she’s worked since graduating from Duquesne University in 2011. For the first six years of her career, she provided audit services to local public and private companies. Since March 2018, she has been working with KPMG’s national audit practice to create and evaluate deployment strategies for the firm’s data and analytics capabilities. In her free time, Jessica enjoys spending time with family and friends, music, and traveling.

Are you a lifelong Pittsburgher?
YES! I’m a proud Pittsburgher, born and raised. I grew up in Lower Burrell, went to Duquesne University and currently live in Forest Hills.

What keeps you motivated?
The people of Pittsburgh keep me motivated. Everyone here is so down-to-earth, super smart and helpful. Large and small businesses thrive because people here take the time to understand each other and put care into everything they do.

What excites you most about your work?

I have the opportunity to learn about newly emerging technology that can bring better ideas to the workplace and our lives. Technology is developing so quickly, it’s exciting to think about where we are headed.

Where do you head to relax and recharge?

I love Pittsburgh, but the weather here leaves something to be desired. My husband Ryan’s grandparents live in Florida for the majority of the year and it has a real home away from home feeling. It’s definitely my favorite destination for sunshine and warmer temperatures.

What is your favorite event of the year?

My husband is Irish. That means I haven’t missed a St. Patrick’s Day Parade since 2009!

Why is giving back important to you?

So many in our community are facing challenges. Maybe they need money, food, a place to sleep, access to education – whatever it is. When I give a few hours, or even a fraction of my paycheck, I feel like I’m doing my part. If we all did a little bit, just image what we could accomplish.

How did you first get involved with United Way?

One of KPMG’s core values is serving the community. Robert Krizner, KPMG’s office managing partner, is on United Way’s Board of Directors and has always shared his passion with the rest of our team. In 2013, I started getting involved with our United Way campaign and loved it. In fact, I soon offered to assist in leading the charge. That lead me to United Way’s Lead. Impact. Network. Change. (LINC.)

After my first LINC meeting, I was filled with urgency, passion and, most importantly, I knew exactly what I could do to help. I remember being so inspired by the others in the room, spring boarding off ideas, getting excited about new and different ways to help people in need. The best part was knowing United Way was listening and that our ideas could become action.

How has your LINC membership helped you, personally and professionally?
Personally and professionally, the #1 benefit is the passionate people I’ve met. It is an amazing opportunity to brainstorm with interesting, like-minded people and really feel like we are part of the solution.

It is so empowering to know that I’m not alone in my desires, but part of this huge patchwork of helpful neighbors.

What’s the one word you would use to describe United Way?

Supportive.

Social handles:

LinkedIn – linkedin.com/in/jessicaferich