Five in five with: Melissa Cuzzocrea

What’s your background?

I graduated from the University of Windsor, earning my CA designation in 2000 and my CPA designation in 2008. I joined Baker Tilly in 2014 after spending eight years in the private automotive sector in a senior financial role.

What keeps you busy outside the office?

My family – which includes four children – keeps me very busy. I also try and squeeze in some time to take care of myself with yoga. 

What is your proudest professional accomplishment?

My recent promotion to director was a proud moment for me personally. For many years I worked a modified schedule, which provided me the flexibility I needed to raise my family, while also juggling the demands of my career. This promotion proves we can continue to elevate professionally while taking time for other things that are important in our lives. 

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

I may be biased, but I think starting an accounting career in a public accounting firm is a great way to build a strong foundation. There is constant formal and informal training every day, along with challenging assignments supporting a broad range of clients. If you seize every opportunity to learn something new, you will thrive. 

What are the qualities that make Baker Tilly Windsor unique?

Our culture makes our firm unique. We believe in the work hard, play hard philosophy. Our team is always planning exciting social activities. As well, I have the privilege of working with people who are intelligent, collaborative, caring and supportive.  

How would you describe your contribution to Baker Tilly Windsor?

In 2021, I’ve worked with an internal team developing new techniques to enhance client service and deliverables. In addition, I enjoy being a mentor to staff, watching them grow and develop professionally. This is something I find personally rewarding.

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

I love to engage young minds and watch them grow and develop. For this reason, I believe teaching is a job I would find very fulfilling.

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

I think the mantra speaks to our role as business advisors and partners with our clients. We take care of their needs today, while anticipating what lies ahead for them and planning accordingly.

What does the future hold for you and your profession?

Data analytics will play a key role in the type of services we offer. These tools will help us shift from a reactive mode to one that is more proactive and analytical.