I was inspired to become an accountant at high school in Jamaica. I fell in love with accounting, intrigued by the numbers. My inspiration was solidified by my teacher, who was very encouraging. I have been in accounting and finance since 1993, and for me it is not just a job; it is what I am most passionate about.
The corporate controller role is a mix of end-to-end accounting, financial reporting, and implementing and monitoring controls. I believe that success in my field is based on passion, technical competencies and a drive to learn. Aligning yourself personally to what you do, finding what drives you to excellence and what encourages you to persist, even in hard times – that is passion.
I had to move from being an introvert to becoming somewhat of a social butterfly
Working in accounting at various levels, from clerk, to controller, to CFO, grounds my technical understanding and allows me to make informed decisions. My audit experience gave me an appreciation for internal controls, an understanding of financial reporting and knowledge of the operations of various industries. From that vantage point, I can see both risk and rewards and navigate the business environment.
Over the years, my role has transitioned into a people-facing one, through interacting with many stakeholders and leading teams. I had to move from being an introvert to becoming somewhat of a social butterfly. I can still find it uncomfortable, but I am proud of having strived towards making significant improvements in this area.
The main challenges businesses face in Canada are recruiting and retaining talent, with post-pandemic preferences favouring remote or hybrid working instead of full time at the office. There is pressure on economic sustainability as interest rates, inflation and costs are increasing, so business must be even more focused on managing this, but some are failing to innovate and adopt technology as the way forward.
I enjoy creating internal control infrastructures and watching the wheels turn as I monitor their progress
However, most companies are addressing labour shortages in creative ways, by partnering with colleges and professional associations. They are upskilling the workforce where possible and making their organisations more appealing to potential employees through diversity, equity and inclusion initiatives.
Companies have responded to increasing costs in multiple ways; some have re-organised and reduced staff costs, while others have passed costs on to their consumers. Many businesses are investing in technology to improve efficiency, while seeking opportunities for growth.
If I had law-making powers, I would facilitate the smooth transition of members of International Federation of Accountants bodies into an accounting career upon entering North America. Requiring experienced accountants to restart learning can be demotivating and impedes their ability to share their wealth of knowledge.
Having a front-row seat to the positive changes and growth in the lives of others is phenomenal
What I enjoy about my job is the process of building and telling the story behind the numbers. I enjoy creating internal control infrastructures and watching the wheels turn as I monitor their progress and success.
I could say that my biggest achievement was my career and academic achievements, but actually I believe it is the impact that I have made on the lives of my team members and other people I have met. Having a front-row seat to the positive changes and growth in the lives of others, because of your investment as a leader, is phenomenal.
If I weren’t in finance, I would have become a lawyer, as helping people is important to me and learning is essential.
In my spare time I focus on my passion for people and drive to serve. I am an ordained minister in my local church and volunteer with organisations such as the Black Female Accountants Network and Catulpa Community Support Services. I actively champion the ‘pay-it-forward’ motto.
