Stephen Lau, CGA

Director, Financial Planning Warner Bros. Entertainment Canada Inc.

As finance director at Warner Bros. Entertainment Canada Inc., I work with many stakeholders, internally and externally. I’m fortunate to be involved in a variety of challenging and interesting projects—from global system implementations to developing business plans for our Canadian market. Getting to preview the next great film is an added bonus!

Obtaining the CGA designation was an important foundation in building my rewarding career in finance. My CGA designation continues to provide me with opportunities to meet and work with other finance professionals in an exciting and dynamic industry.

A significant factor for me in choosing the CGA program of professional studies was its flexibility. The program allowed me to be gainfully employed while studying. As I progressed through each level, I was able to appreciate and put into practice what I had learned. Achieving the end result—the CGA designation—was and continues to be worthwhile and fulfilling.

Diana Evans, CGA

Vice-President and Financial Controller Citi Cards Canada Inc.

I chose the CGA program because of its broad and diverse range of studies. When studying, I learned to adapt and expand my horizons, due to the challenging nature of the program and the practical work experience gained while progressing in the CGA program. Because of the program’s rigour, I felt a real sense of accomplishment when I achieved my CGA designation.

The keys to today’s marketplace reside in flexibility and speed to market. My CGA designation has allowed me to adapt and evolve throughout my career. It’s meant that I’ve gained experience in many areas of accounting, finance and treasury—in four different industries—while progressively advancing my career.

Upon consideration of the time invested in achieving a CGA designation, my analysis is that it has provided an unparalleled return on investment. It is the foundation of my career success.

Lisa Janes, CGA

Director, Operations Citizenship and Immigration Canada

I began my career in the federal public service in a management development program with the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA), then known as Revenue Canada. After working for several years, I realized that a professional accounting designation would increase my understanding of the CRA’s programs—particularly in the audit program—and facilitate my career advancement.

My CGA training provided a solid base for present and future on-the-job experience. It also gave me the confidence to take on new challenges in the federal public service.

My CGA designation is something of which I am incredibly proud. I know I achieved a professional credential that is recognized, respected and highly regarded in the world of accounting, business and finance.

Charles Abayomi, CGA

Director, Finance and Administration Macaulay Child Development Centre

Having spent the first 15 years of my professional career living and working in three different continents, l arrived in Canada expecting to readily find an equally rewarding position in accounting and finance in my new home. But, it quickly became obvious that I needed a Canadian accounting designation to further my prospects. Not only would an accounting designation secure an appropriate employment position, it would allow me to gain a better understanding of the Canadian economy, accounting and tax laws.

My dream of succeeding in my new country has come true, with my CGA designation opening doors to progressively more senior positions. The training and skills l acquired while working towards my CGA designation, as well as the continuing professional development I undertake to maintain currency, have contributed significantly to my success.

David Ponting, CGA

Trustee in Bankruptcy Senior Manager, BDO Dunwoody Limited

Following university, I decided to pursue a professional accounting designation to expand my career prospects and open up opportunities that might be otherwise unavailable. After researching the various options, I chose to pursue a CGA designation. Not only would a CGA designation confer respect and trust in the marketplace, I also appreciated the flexibility the program offered me as a student.

As a senior manager with BDO Dunwoody Limited, I provide financial restructuring advice and services to individuals, professionals and businesses who are experiencing financial uncertainty..

A successful economic community requires the involvement of highly skilled professional accountants. I definitely believe the CGA program teaches such skills. And, in the process, it provides individuals with the skills and tools needed to achieve their career goals.