Five in five: Kevin Shaw
1. How would you describe the contribution you make to your firm?
I think my team would be able to answer this one best. From my perspective, though, I would say that my primary contribution as part of the leadership at Baker Tilly Canada Corporate Finance (BTCCF) is helping to guide my team’s overall productivity, growth and learning. I am especially fortunate because I also get to lead transactions on the transaction services and investment banking teams. You could say that I get to have my cake and eat it too.
2. What is your proudest professional accomplishment?
Well, I have two – choosing just one is like picking a favourite child. As BTCCF’s first staff member, I’m proud of how much we have grown, the world-class team we assembled and all the work we’ve done – and continue to do. Looking back at the role I’ve played gives me a tremendous sense of pride and accomplishment. Secondly, and just as important, was the bike ride I did in November 2013, cycling from Vancouver to Toronto to raise funds and awareness for the “Movember” campaign. This effort raised $150,000. I consider it a professional accomplishment because it took me away from work and my career for 3 months and was the most challenging thing I’ve ever done.
3. What inspires you at work?
That’s an easy one to answer. Above all, I am inspired by our clients – those brave and tenacious individuals who have dedicated their lives to a goal or purpose. I’m talking about people such as entrepreneurs, business owners and organizational leaders. I feel privileged to be able to share my knowledge and the collective expertise of our team to help our clients realize their aspirations and objectives. That’s what really gets me out of bed each morning.
4. What qualities make Baker Tilly Canada unique?
As a national network, Baker Tilly Canada has an incredible breadth of resources and depth of talent. It really is an honour to be part of such an extensive and exceptional network. At the same time, our individual member firms all have strong local roots and connections to their respective regions and communities. It’s the best of both worlds. On top of this, we serve such a wide array of clients, spanning a diverse scope of industries and sectors. It certainly keeps each day interesting and challenging!
5. What keeps you busy outside of the office?
I have two amazing children – Mira, who is one year old, and Adrian, who is three years old. They definitely keep me on my toes! I also have a wonderful wife named Jeannine. We’re busy parents and love every moment of it, as we watch our kids learn, grow and express themselves. Whenever I do happen to have some spare time, you can find me involved in anything sports-related. Besides cycling, I love golfing, basketball, volleyball and running. I’ve even completed a full marathon and an Olympic triathlon. It helps me keep up with the kids!
Kevin Shaw
Kevin Shaw