Five in five with: Brianne Cabanayan

What’s your background?

I started my accounting journey by completing a three-year Business Administration Accounting diploma at Canadore College in North Bay. From there, I came to the University of Windsor to complete my Bachelor of Commerce. I’ve been in Windsor ever since. I was with a local firm for a few years, and I found my work home here at Baker Tilly Windsor in 2015.

What keeps you busy outside the office?

My two kids, and we got a puppy during COVID, so he requires a lot of attention. I also love thrift shopping. I enjoy that not only because it provides environmental benefits, but also, I love the thrill of finding unique pieces. I ended up getting my prom dress from a thrift store – I wore a 1950s teacup dress. It was amazing.

What is your proudest professional accomplishment?

Passing my chartered accounting exams because I started working toward my CA designation while I was on my second maternity leave. I was home watching my newborn and my almost two year old during the day and then studying for the exams at night. But it all paid off in the end – I got through all the exams on the first try.

What advice would you give someone starting a career in your field?

Ask a lot of questions and see opportunities when they present themselves. For instance, I never thought about joining the Tax group, but that opportunity presented itself. I took it and I love my job – I would never do anything else.

What are the qualities that make Baker Tilly Windsor unique?

What’s unique about Baker Tilly Windsor is it’s part of a global network but it’s locally owned, so I feel like we have the best of both worlds. Not only do we have access to national and international resources, but we’re also able to pivot quickly when faced with challenges or changes.

How would you describe your contribution to Baker Tilly Windsor?

During the past two years, I’ve been leading the team who’s been helping our clients with the government COVID programs. We assist in unravelling the tax legislation around these programs and help our clients access the funds they are entitled to.

If you weren’t in your current job, what profession would you pursue?

I would likely be a college professor. I like taking complex tax legislation, breaking it down and explaining it in simpler terms.

What does “Now, for tomorrow” (Baker Tilly’s mantra) mean to you?

It means planning today so you are ready for tomorrow. My team assists with estate planning, a topic not many clients are interested in discussing for the most part. However, making sure your affairs are in order now so there aren’t any adverse consequences to your loved ones in the future is really important.

What does the future hold for you and your profession?

As Canadian tax legislation and tax filing requirements continue to change and get more complicated, I foresee myself and Baker Tilly Windsor assisting clients in deciphering and navigating those changes