KPMG Montvale: Cultivating Community & Work Life Balance

Overview

One of the exceptional aspects of Bergen

County is the supportive network of businesses that contribute to our community. One such business is KPMG, a global professional service firm named one of Fortune 100’s Best Companies to Work for. With a presence in over 147 countries, KPMG is dedicated to fostering strong community values. 

Background

Today we had the opportunity to interview Diana Miskiewicz, a finance manager at KPMG’s Montvale Office. As a Seton Hall graduate, Diana began her career at Merrill Lynch through her exceptional merits. Her performance led to a referral to MasterCard, where she continuously excelled to join KPMG 8 years ago. With her long commitment to KPMG, we will dive into the company’s culture and lifestyle. 

What is the Lifestyle like at KPMG?

Diana: “KPMG’s work-life balance has allowed me to spend quality time with my family, like fishing near my family’s lake house in the summer. The firm’s culture promotes bringing one’s authentic self to work, creating a supportive environment where colleagues feel like a ‘second family.’ The atmosphere is not as toxic as many portray corporate jobs to be. We have a very supportive atmosphere where everyone trains to perform their best within the 9-5 schedules so they could truly detach themselves from work and live life after that 5:00 bell.”

Worklife Revolution

Diana’s experience reflects the satisfaction and freedom many individuals feel as part of the KPMG community. Over the past 15 years, KPMG transformed its work-life balance and mental health approach. Gone are the days when employees felt pressured to work long hours in a highly competitive environment to secure promotions. Today, the company emphasizes understanding team dynamics and maintaining a sustainable work pace.

What is your most memorable experience at KPMG?

In the interview, Diana highlights her anticipation for the Lakehouse training program in Florida for college interns, a program she didn’t have access to earlier in her career. This opportunity will allow her to share her knowledge and passion for finance with the next generation. Another experience she mentioned was serving as the head coordinator for the Fort Lee High School NAF internship program. Through this role, Diana was able to attend NAF conference in Arizona and connect with the future business leaders of America. 

Community Initiatives 

Beyond financial services, KPMG fosters a culture where community giving is not only encouraged but celebrated. Every summer, in early August, the company hosts Community Impact Day, where employees shut their screens to participate in volunteering activities.

Last year, over 22,000 KPMG professionals participated, contributing their efforts to more than 450 nonprofit organizations. As a breast cancer survivor, Diana herself participates annually in walks for the American Cancer Society and manages school supplies for students in Bergen County. 

Extending beyond a single-day event, KPMG’s U.S. Foundation committed to more than $125 million to support programs addressing education and health. The organization initiated the ‘KPMG Family for Literacy’ to eradicate childhood illiteracy by donating over 7 million books with the involvement of 60,000 company volunteers. Not to mention, the Foundation also has multiple green initiatives set up internationally to reduce carbon emissions. 

Diana’s involvement with the National Academy Foundation (NAF) and Community Impact Day has taught her that volunteering extends beyond the required hours. Five years ago, KPMG launched the High School Empower Program, with Fort Lee High School being the first sponsored location within the Montvale area. This program allows local high school students to apply for internships, exposing them to corporate culture and essential skills. Furthermore, KPMG plans to expand this opportunity to other schools in Bergen County, Passaic, and Hudson Counties. 

Conclusion: Power of Networking

What advice would you have for students entering this field?

Diana: “I advise students entering this field to be inquisitive, conversational and make lasting impressions. Networking is such an important part of becoming successful in today’s society. Keeping in touch with colleagues through LinkedIn and simple gestures like holiday greetings can really skyrocket your career.”

After interning at KPMG myself, I can attest to the company’s exceptional commitment to its employees and the community. Internally, KPMG offers a range of amenities, including free yoga classes and flexible working days, which supports a balanced work environment. Externally, the firm is dedicated to giving back, supporting various local community projects.