Zoe Keck
Corporate Accountant at Canva
Zoe is a Chartered Accountant & Photographer with a unique blend of experience across the Tech, Finance and Creative industries. She thrives at the intersection of strategy and creativity and is breaking down traditional career stereotypes through a diverse portfolio career.
Beyond her corporate and creative pursuits, Zoe is deeply committed to helping others navigate challenges, build confidence and achieve their career and business goals. She is driven by making meaningful connections and providing guidance to unlock new opportunities through leveraging strategy, personal branding and creative storytelling.
Zoe also enjoys spending time soaking up the sun at the beach, exploring new creative outlets and prioritising health and wellness.
Career & Background
Could you tell us a bit about your professional background?
My career has been a journey of blending numbers with creativity. I started out in corporate business advisory where I empowered business owners to understand and take control of their finances. Problem solving, building relationships and helping clients navigate business challenges was just the beginning of a more purpose driven career where I could expand my depth beyond the numbers.
That drive led me to the world of tech, where my financial acumen helps drive purposeful change through Canva’s mission to empower the world and do the most good we can. I also work closely with startup founders, leveraging my background in strategic business advisory to support their growth. I’m particularly excited about the future of AI and how it is reshaping the way we work.
Beyond my work in Finance and Tech, I balance my analytical side with creative outlets. Photography has been a lifelong passion and this energy manifests into editorial fashion shoots or personal branding photography. People are often surprised to hear I am both an accountant and a creative – my journey is proof you can do both! A unique and diverse skillset will set you apart and I believe this is fundamental to building a strong personal brand.
Right now, I’m focused on refining my craft, elevating my impact and sharing my knowledge to empower those around me. I love showing people that linear careers are a thing of the past – career pivots can be incredibly fulfilling and will open doors to opportunities you didn’t even know existed.
What inspired you to do what you are doing now?
I’ve always had a passion for creativity – I studied design alongside accounting and have been operating a freelance photography business for the past five years. At Canva, I have found a space to fuse my creative and analytical skillsets while making a real impact. It is incredibly fulfilling to be part of a team that values both innovation and doing good in the world.
Beyond my work at Canva, I’m fortunate to play a part in communities that allow me to connect with, empower and uplift others who are navigating similar paths. The opportunity to give back and see others thrive inspires me to continue forging a path for others.
What drives and inspires you
What are your core values?
- Kindness
- Making a difference
- Wellbeing
Who is your biggest inspiration and why?
There are so many incredible women breaking down barriers and redefining success. My biggest inspiration comes from trailblazing women who not only achieve remarkable things but also prioritise their wellbeing. Life is not about perfect balance – that simply doesn’t exist. Seeing the likes of Laura Henshaw and Georgie Stevenson align ambition and personal fulfilment with resilience and authenticity inspires me to do the same.
Your favourite food for thought
Books
- Atomic Habits – James Clear (he has a great weekly newsletter too)
- Big Magic – Elizabeth Gilbert
- The Creative Act – Rick Rubin
Podcasts / Thought Leaders
- The Diary of a CEO, Steven Bartlett
- Process the Podcast, Arielle Thomas
- The Mel Robbins Podcast
You as a Mentor
Why have you decided to become a mentor?
I want to shine a light on non-linear career paths and open pathways for others on a similar journey. Earlier in my career, I never imagined I’d be where I am today, partly because I didn’t see many examples of people taking unconventional paths.
I love providing guidance and encouragement to those forging their own unique paths. To me, mentorship is more than just career advice – it’s about sharing experiences, broadening perspectives and helping others unlock opportunities they may not have considered or even thought possible. I wouldn’t be where I am today without strong mentors and leaders in each phase of my career – this support has been invaluable and it is incredibly fulfilling to be able to pay that forward.
What are the top skills or qualities you bring to mentoring?
- Empathic
- Non-judgemental
- Patient
- Willing to be vulnerable
Ready to apply?
The best time is right now. Take a chance – you never know where an Assisterhood mentor can take you.