At 17, Diana Sousa signed on as an Army Reservist, completing ‘boot camp’ training side-by-side with few other women and young men twice her size. It was the first year women could join the artillery and she was a gunner. Today, she describes the experience as life changing although not necessarily a prerequisite for the role she has at Geranium; but it didn’t hurt!
She is a graduate of Ryerson University in Urban and Regional Planning and boasts a resume of work experience in construction, accounting as well as sales and marketing. With 3 years experience as a project coordinator and an additional 5 years as a contracts manager for a low-rise residential builder, Diana brought that experience to Geranium as Contracts Manager in early 2011.
It’s the variety of the work that keeps her interested as well as the unexpected days where priorities change. At any time, she could be working on tenders for a new neighbourhood, reviewing quotes, awarding contracts, communicating with trades and suppliers, and liaising with colleagues in estimating, customer care and site staff. Diana’s accounting skills come in handy with budgeting. She also oversees the preparation of pricing for the Décor Centre and learns about new products in the market. In 2014 her scope expanded to include Project Manager responsibilities.
When not at work, Diana likes to relax with her husband and two daughters at home. She also likes to cook, read, listen to music of many different genres and see foreign films. Vacation time is spent on country drives, camping and exploring Canadian destinations.
Testing her mettle and wanting to keep fit, Diana was a member of a roller derby league a few years ago. She had to learn to skate, found it exhilarating to compete and truly enjoyed the team aspect of the sport.
Fun Facts about Diana:
Diana’s two words to describe Geranium: Supportive and Driven to succeed
Favourite Book: Pride and Prejudice by Jane Austen
Dream: If she could have one super power it would be a Photographic Memory.
Shopping Preference, online or in store: dislikes shopping but would defer to online