What’s your background?

I started working as a teenager in various customer service and client facing roles. This helped me develop my communication skills and deepen my understanding of the client experience, which is vital in an industry where we strive to provide excellence to our clients. In university, I decided to pursue my International BBA at the Schulich School of Business at York University, with a specialization in accounting. I followed a typical path, working at a Big Four firm and moving to industry once I obtained my CA. After that, I was in the automotive manufacturing/technology industry for almost 10 years before I returned to firm life at BT Windsor.

What keeps you busy outside the office?

My family is a big part of my life. Between spending time with my husband and our two children, I try to devote time to yoga, reading and taking care of my plants. I also volunteer as the treasurer for a not-for-profit childcare centre.

What is your proudest professional accomplishment?

Coming to the realization that I have control over my career at BT Windsor. I’m not boxed into a specific role, and there is fluidity in what I can do and achieve.

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

As the Biebs would say, “never say never”. Have flexibility, patience, grit and an openness to learning and unlearning. When I left public practice to go into industry in 2011, I told myself I would never go back. Fast forward to 2022 and I am now back at a firm and loving it. If you work hard and learn to embrace the unexpected, you’ll get to where you need to be in the end.

What are the qualities that make Baker Tilly Windsor unique?

The people and the culture that has been fostered. Our partners understand it’s not just about expanding our footprint, but doing it in a conscientious way that is beneficial for our clients and staff.

How would you describe your contribution to Baker Tilly Windsor?

My years of customer service and experience in industry provides perspective to those who haven’t “been on the other side”. This allows me to service my clients with empathy and an understanding of their needs.

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

I always had a love for investigative journalism, probably due to my interest in fact-finding, which makes me well-suited to a career in tax.

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

Anything we do, whether seemingly minor or major, has a long-term impact. As the experts, we need to be able to help our clients understand those impacts to make the necessary decisions to ensure their future growth. From an internal point of view, this mantra speaks to our investment in employees, which ensures the development of their talent and expertise.

What does the future hold for you and your profession?

In the years ahead, I believe there will be an increased use of AI, coupled with a greater need for international tax experts to provide proper guidance. As a globally integrated economy, tax authorities in each country are looking to reduce the erosion of their tax base. CRA is becoming more sophisticated in this area, increasing their use of data analytics with their auditing process, so it’s important clients with multinational operations are advised appropriately, reducing and managing risk.