Discover CPA

Are you interested in becoming a CPA but don’t have a business-related background? This Discover CPA event will feature a panel of CPAs who did not study business prior to pursuing their CPA path. Hear why they became CPAs and how they did it. Receive an overview of the CPA profession and get a chance to network with panelists following the moderated panel discussion.

Complimentary canapés and beverages will be served.

Registration Deadline: Tuesday, February 7, 2023.

Panelists

Rob An, CPA, CGA, FCCA (UK), CFP, CLU
Director, Wealth Strategist & Team Lead
CIBC Private Wealth

Major/field of study of degree(s): Bachelor of Science in Biochemistry and Chemistry (Double Major); Diploma of Technology in Financial Management - advanced taxation option; Bachelor of Technology in Accounting

Rob has over 15 years of experience in public practice and the financial services industry. In his current role as Director, Wealth Strategist & Team Lead at CIBC Private Wealth, Rob leads a team of 5 Financial Planning Specialists and also works with CIBC's high-net-worth clients to develop holistic and integrated wealth plans that combine investment management, estate planning, tax planning, and retirement planning strategies to achieve the clients' goals as well as optimize and grow their wealth. Also, Rob is an active volunteer with FP Canada, CPA Canada and the SFU Mentors in Business program.

Samuel Lau, CPA
Senior Manager, Taxation
KPMG LLP

Major/field of study of degree(s): Bachelor of Science in Microbiology and Immunology

Sam is a Senior Manager of Taxation at KPMG LLP, specializing in real estate taxation. He graduated from UBC in 2012 with a Bachelor of Science in Microbiology and Immunology and has been working at KPMG since 2014. When he's not catching up with the latest changes in tax legislation, he likes to play volleyball, kayak, and travel.

June Lee, CPA, CMA
Analyst
BC Financial Services Authority

Major/field of study of degree(s): Bachelor of Food Science

June Lee is currently working at BC Financial Services Authority as an Analyst. As an Analyst, her main role is to review the credit unions' filing submissions to assess the quality and integrity of the information. Outside of her work, June is part of CPABC’s Mentor Advisory Group, MAG as she likes to call it for short, are a group of enthusiastic and proactive mentors who work collaboratively with CPABC to spearhead projects and initiatives aimed at improving the mentorship experience.

Gail Thiessen CPA, CMA
Finance Manager
Evangelical Missionary Church of Canada

Major/field of study of degree(s): Bachelor of Arts (Economics)

Gail’s passion is music.  She usually sings in two choirs.  She is also on the board of two organizations relating to music.  Gail gets to use her accounting skills to help organizations that she is passionate about.