Help wanted: CPAs with international experience

Internationally Educated Professionals (IEPs) and Internationally Trained Accountants (ITAs) bring skills and qualifications developed in leading global markets that are highly sought-after by Canadian employers.

That is the goal of CPA Ontario’s student recruitment team (SRT). It is their role to encourage IEPs and ITAs to learn about the many opportunities the CPA designation can unlock and encourage them.  

Through informative webinars, one-on-one consultations, networking events and mentoring opportunities, the SRT team supports newcomer needs like employer connections and skills building. CPA Ontario also provides low-cost financing options through its partnerships with charitable organizations like Windmill Microlending.

From 2021 to date, CPA Ontario has engaged with more than 21,000 prospective members who are either in Canada or preparing for pre-arrival, increasing the number of students and professionals interested in pursuing their CPA by over 10 percent.

Helping new CPAs in Canada find success

As an ITA trained at the University of Mumbai, Shraddha Bhagwat, CPA, CMA (ICAI), and Director of Finance at &Capital Inc., came to Canada with experience in a range of markets and industries before seeking her designation.

“I learned the key differences in reporting and compliance that boosted my confidence at my first job in Canada within the first few months of my arrival,” says Bhagwat.

“CPA Ontario provided me with a valuable framework that I apply in my daily work to present problems and solutions effectively, and the designation has raised my credibility with the board and executive team at my workplace.”

Dennis Dai, MACC, CPA, and Senior Manager – Enterprise Risk Services at MNP, obtained his CPA designation in Ohio and sought to transfer his qualifications when he first came to Canada in 2009.  

“CPA Ontario not only supported my transfer but also introduced me to many approachable CPAs and hosted me at networking and resume sessions,” says Dai. “They empowered my journey so much so that I was able to land a job in three months,” says Dai. “Since then, I’ve given back my time by providing mentorship opportunities, serving as a financial literacy instructor and speaking at CPA-focused events.”

“CPA Ontario bridges the gap between IEP and ITA’s highly sought-after qualifications and experiences, and Ontario’s nuanced regulatory and standards procedures,” says Carmen Jacques, CPA, CGA, and CPA Ontario’s Student Recruitment Officer.  

Internationally trained professionals and students bring essential skills and perspectives to the profession, and CPA Ontario helps them achieve their goals while advancing a more diverse and inclusive profession.

“By providing information, connections, and guidance,” Jacques continues, “we equip IEPs and ITAs to effectively navigate their career pathways with clarity and security as they settle into their work in Canada.”