What’s your background?
I graduated from the University of Waterloo with a Master of Taxation and hold both CPA and CMA designations. I am also a member of the CPA Canada faculty, assisting with the development and delivery of CPA Canada’s In-Depth Tax Program.
What keeps you busy outside the office?
First and foremost, I enjoy spending quality time with my family and close friends. When it comes to hobbies, I love getting out on the golf course and trying to improve my game. I’m not always successful, but it helps teach me how to persevere. If I’m not swinging the clubs, chances are you’ll find me working in my garden.
What is your proudest professional accomplishment?
Beyond providing my clients with clear and thoughtful advice and solutions, one specific professional accomplishment I am especially proud of is receiving the Vincent Bjorndahl Scholarship in 2012. This was awarded to me in recognition of outstanding contribution to the Canadian Petroleum Tax Journal.
What advice would you give someone starting a career in your field?
This type of career offers many rewards. At the heart of tax practice is the ability to effectively address complex issues and situations, but just as importantly it’s also about building relationships and earning trust. There will be many challenges you may encounter in this field, but through dedication, perseverance, and hard work, you can overcome any barrier and realize your dreams. Just like I have done.
What are the qualities that make Baker Tilly Windsor unique?
I think that what really sets our firm apart is the inclusive culture. From day one, when I first came on board, I was made to feel like I was an important and valued part of the team. Here, I have always felt that my voice, opinions and perspective are genuinely welcomed, respected and appreciated.
How would you describe your contribution to Baker Tilly Windsor?
As a senior manager, I strive to apply my years of experience to provide innovative and focused solutions to our clients. I want to see our firm continue to grow and evolve, and I am committed to doing everything I can to help make that happen.
If you weren’t in your current job, what profession would you pursue?
Well, as a child, I dreamed of being a professional athlete – a pro golfer or cricket player. My athletic dreams may not have played out, but the desire to be my best has served me well in my accounting career.
What does “Now, for tomorrow” (Baker Tilly’s mantra) mean to you?
It means working to create new opportunities for growth with an international firm. Basically, tomorrow’s success begins with today’s actions. It doesn’t happen by itself. What we do now – the time and effort – will determine the course of our future. It’s like the old saying goes: “There’s no time like the present.”
What does the future hold for you and your profession?
The field of international tax is complex, challenging and dynamic. This all makes it incredibly stimulating for a tax professional. One must constantly evolve and learn in order to offer the most value to clients. As an international tax practitioner, my goal is to continue to hone my skills so I can be a trusted advisor for our clients and a vital resource within the firm.