Welcoming one of Crowe MacKay LLP's newest Partners

I always wanted to be a math teacher because I excelled in the subject; it just made sense to me and I really enjoy teaching and helping others learn. However, this is not the career path I took. But, in becoming an accountant, I've found my career to hold the same qualities as a math teacher: I work with numbers and I get to help others learn, whether it be staff or clients.

I started in public practice in September 2006 and have been in the industry ever since, making it just over 13 years now. I have been with Crowe MacKay for two years, initially joining as a Senior Manager and then Associate, before being nominated to become a Partner in January of 2020.

Inspired To Have A Career in Accounting

There are two factors that led me to a career in accounting. The first was an accounting course I took in high school. I did very well in the class and excelled in the subject. The second was my godfather. He is a Chartered Accountant and always seemed excited about his work. So, in being introduced to a field that I seemed to be good at and enjoyed — and knowing that there were employment opportunities that provided job satisfaction— I decided to do a Bachelor of Commerce with a concentration in accounting. My ultimate goal was to become a Chartered Accountant.

I completed my Bachelor of Commerce at Carleton University. I was fortunate to get a job at a bookkeeping company after my first year of university. I stayed at that company throughout my schooling doing bookkeeping for a variety of businesses, which helped me secure a position at an accounting firm straight out of university as a staff accountant. I worked for that firm for a number of years leaving as the Director of Assurance Services to join Crowe MacKay in 2018. I continued my education through the Chartered Accountant designation program (CA), and since then I've continued to further my education, obtaining my Certified Internal Auditor designation (CIA).

I get by with a little help from my friends ... family and mentors

So many people were involved in my journey to get me where I am today. Starting with my godfather, who was a key factor in my decision to become a Chartered Accountant. My best friend from high school also played an integral role by introducing me to my first employer in the accounting field, the owner of a bookkeeping company.

Early in my career, I had a manager who was incredibly clever and personable. He had a lot of technical knowledge that is involved in accounting and assurance but was also warm, friendly, easy going, and fun.

While working with him he mentored me in technical skills. He challenged me and provided opportunities for growth, while at the same time demonstrating through his actions and behaviors that we can perform our work professionally while also having meaningful relationships with clients and staff. This really is a people business and you are only as good as the people you are surrounded by.

Then there are the countless partners that I have worked with throughout my career who provided me with interesting and ever-evolving opportunities. They showed me what it means to be a professional in terms of technical requirements, client relations, and, most importantly, how to support and learn from those around you.

I have also had the pleasure of working with many colleagues who have provided endless support and guidance.