Five in five: Terri Holowath
1. What is your background?
I first joined Baker Tilly Catalyst – which was originally called Coakwell Moore – in 1992 as an articling student, right after graduating from the University of Calgary. Initially based in High River, the firm added an office in downtown Calgary in 1999. We changed our name to Catalyst in 2002. A few years later, we merged the High River and Calgary offices into one location, and in 2010 I was honoured to be appointed managing partner. Today, our firm is proud to be part of the Baker Tilly network. For me personally, it’s been an exciting journey to this point.
2. What is your proudest professional accomplishment?
That would be the many close and rewarding relationships I have built with colleagues, clients and those across our network. Some of these connections go back to when I started with the firm in 1992, which is truly gratifying. Beyond these relationships, I especially love finding solutions to challenging issues, both for our clients and our business.
3. What is your accounting superpower?
I can make taxes magically disappear! Okay, just kidding. Actually, what I really love about accounting is uncovering the human stories within all the data and numbers. It’s about discovering what is truly important to our clients, and then finding ways to support them and help make their goals a reality.
4. What are the qualities that make Baker Tilly Canada unique?
Our member firms are all deeply committed to supporting one another. For our firm specifically, we’re always looking to offer new and innovative services based on client needs and emerging industry trends. As part of the Baker Tilly network, we’re able to continually provide exceptional service to our clients and deliver even greater value as advisors. Being part of the network enables us to remain independently owned, maintaining the qualities that made us successful such as partner unity, relationships and culture. Plus, we can provide easy access to professionals and resources across Canada, as well as the support and strength of an international brand and robust internal infrastructure. I feel like we have limitless potential as part of the Baker Tilly network.
5. What does the future hold for you and your profession?
Two words: constant change. Whether it’s new technology, tax laws, employment standards or social expectations, we must constantly stay on top of such issues on behalf of our clients and for our own people and organization. I find it ironic how the accounting profession often has a reputation for attracting those who are averse to change, when in reality we deal with it every day and in so many ways.
Terri Holowath
Terri Holowath