In a career that has never been scripted, Jill’s life and work have spanned the globe. She started in media, producing talk shows in Toronto and Vancouver, and then by chance and design, that evolved into hotel public relations – a move that would see her working in Asia and across Canada with Holiday Inn Worldwide, Fairmont Hotels & Resorts and Shangri-La Hotel and Resorts. 

In 2010, she launched her own communications company, adding architecture and development to her portfolio. Working with the internationally reknowned development firm, Westbank, Jill engaged with the artists and architects who shape our cities – among them Zhang Huan, Bjarke Ingels, Kengo Kuma, Douglas Coupland, Gregory Henriquez and James Cheng.

At the same time, a love of vintage brooches (150 & counting) lead to a partnership with Jewels by Alan Anderson, the Toronto-based designer of spectacular costume jewellery. Her jewellery box is a favourite among her girlfriends.

A culmination of her global work, projects and passions lead her to establish The Killeen Collective.

Q

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What is the best career advice you’ve been given?

What is the top of YOUR mountain? 

What are the 3 qualities that drive you?

Work ethic, determination and fear of failure. 

How did you make your first dollar?

Mowing lawns.

If you could live abroad, where would you go?

Italy or Spain. I have romantic notions of renovating a villa.

What work advice would you give your younger self?

Learn the art of delegation.

What women inspire you?

My mother and grandmother were the originals – they gave me wings. Today, it is the women I choose to surround me – intelligent, challenging, hardworking women who give back.

What character trait do you most dislike about myself?

Impatience. Next. 

What is your idea of perfect happiness?

Sitting on the deck of our cottage in New Brunswick, surrounded by my family.

Who is the greatest love of your life?

My husband, Michael (Mike). He has indulged my spirit of adventure, followed me to Asia without question (ok, maybe a few questions) and been my constant. 

Why are you making philanthropy part of this?

I grew up in a small town and giving back was just something you did. Today I’m fortunate to be involved with several organizations that do such important work – Face the World Foundation, CAN (Canucks Autism Network) and Arts Umbrella – and I believe making a contribution needs to be part of my legacy.

What is the best gift you’ve given yourself?

Deliberate and planned time with girlfriends.

What do you consider your greatest achievement?

My children, Ryan and Sean – two extraordinary young men who are smart, funny and incredibly compassionate. 

What is the quality you most admire in a woman?

The ability to listen and have an honest, non-superficial conversation.

What is the quality you most admire in a man?

Loyalty.

How do you describe your style?

Tailored and classic, with a desire to be edgier and avant-garde.

Is there a plan for all those brooches?

Yes, and it involves a handbag I designed many years ago.

What is your current state of mind?

Excited about my ‘next’.