The Value of CPA: From All Walks to Strategic Leadership

Discover the far-reaching impact and versatility of the CPA designation in The Value of CPA offers a compelling event series that brings to life the many ways CPAs are shaping industries, communities, and global markets. Each session highlights real stories that demonstrate the value of the CPA designation, showcasing the diverse paths and profound value of CPAs. 

This session will showcase how CPAs rise to leadership from other careers.

Panelists

Amanda Patterson, CPA, CA 
 
Amanda Patterson, CPA, CA is the Chief Financial Officer and Chief Compliance Officer at PenderFund Capital Management Ltd. ("Pender"), an independent, employee-owned investment firm based in Vancouver that manages a suite of equity, fixed income, alternative and venture capital funds. She has over 20 years of international financial-services experience, beginning her career with PwC and later holding senior roles in Toronto, Sydney, and New York. Since joining Pender in 2018, Amanda has helped build and led its financial reporting, operational controls, and compliance functions during a period of significant growth. A Chartered Professional Accountant, she holds a Bachelor of Business Administration in Accounting from Wilfrid Laurier University.

Ella Chan, CPA, CMA 
 
Ella Chan, CPA, CMA, is the Chief Operating Officer of Pedalheads, a leading provider of children’s skill-building programs across North America. Prior to joining Pedalheads, she began her finance career with Joey Restaurant Group. Following that, Ella spent 8 years with Canucks Sports & Entertainment where she progressed from Assistant Controller to Vice President of Hospitality. She credits her CPA, CMA education with sharpening her ability to interpret complex financial data and translate insights into strategies that propel business growth. 

Michael Macaulay, CPA 

Michael grew up in Ontario and obtained a degree in Human Kinetics as he originally wanted to pursue a career in healthcare. After gaining a few years of post-graduate work experience he found himself moving to Vancouver, enrolled in the UBC DAP program. While completing his studies at UBC he continued to work in the restaurant industry which allowed him to join Joey Restaurant Group's Corporate Office. While at JOEYs Michael held numerous roles and really got a good understanding of what it takes to be a CPA who can impact a business. After spending several years at JOEY he decided to make a change to further challenge himself and continue to develop as a professional. Michael currently holds the role of Director of Finance at the Peak Group of Companies where he handles financial reporting to working with the operations teams to have better insight into the business. During Michael's free time - he can be found golfing as much as his partner allows him to, spending time in Okanagan and checking out the food scene.