Who We Are

Director

Mare Layne, PhD

they/them — Workplace Transition Consultant / Advocate / Scholar

Mare Layne has spent more than seven years doing work that most people didn't even know needed doing: helping transgender, gender-diverse, and non-binary professionals find their footing, assert their rights, and build careers worthy of who they truly are. They worked at Transition Planning Services for several years before the business became The Real You at Work.

Before their advocacy work, Mare built a distinguished career spanning higher education and people talent recruitment and consulting. With a Ph.D. in the social sciences, they brought an unusually rigorous lens to human organizations — how power flows through them, how cultures form and resist change, and how individuals negotiate identity within institutional structures.

Mare watched colleagues, friends, and strangers attempt to transition at work without support, without a strategy. Some lost jobs. Some gave up on being themselves. Some lost their lives. Mare decided they were done watching.

Due to Mare's ongoing efforts in developing relationships with generous individuals, trans-allies, and corporate affiliates, more than half of clients receive services at substantial discount or for free.

Services Administrator

Liam Sheehan

they/them

Liam joined Real You at Work in 2025 to assist with scheduling and outreach services. They have worked closely with marginalized gender groups and urban-based trans communities and support groups.

Liam holds a first degree in public relations and political science. They have lived in the UK and the U.S. and are currently based outside of Montreal.

Advisor

Abigail Ryster, MS., M.H.R

she/her — Diversity Consultant

Abigail started a company called Transition Planning Services (TPS) in the UK several years ago when there was a clear need to assist professionals transitioning in the workplace but understood there were too few capable consultants and experienced mentors available.  TPS shifted management and business scope in 2025 to become the Real You at Work.  She continues consultancy  engagements at Real you at Work.

Abigail began her professional career in financial services and customer support management. She holds an undergraduate degree in business administration and certificates in human resource management. For fifteen years, she has been a lead consultant to companies wishing to advance DEI policies in the workplace and advises company leaders on the value of a diverse workforce.