YPDaily: Chandor Gauthier

Chandor Gauthier began working at Crowe Soberman in 2005 and is now a partner within the mid-sized Toronto-based accounting firm, proof to the notion that persistence pays off. Where does she see herself in five years? Find out in today’s YPDaily…

Elevator Pitch: Describe your job in a nutshell.
I am an audit and advisory partner at Crowe Soberman, a mid-sized accounting firm based here in Toronto. I provide financial advice to clients from various industries based on their special needs. Some of my areas of specialization include working with individuals and companies to help them fulfill their tax obligations, while providing them with tax-saving strategies. Our firm also provides advice on HST and business valuations, amongst other services. Most recently, I’ve assisted many clients transition to new financial reporting frameworks (such as IFRS and ASPE) as well as dealing with various regulatory agencies.

What I enjoy most is working one-on-one with clients. Becoming an extension of their business operations comes from my daily interaction with clients and my genuine interest in what it is they do. It is rewarding to be able to contribute in a tangible way to their vision and goals.

When did you start working at your company? What was the inspiration for this career route?
I started working at Crowe Soberman in May 2005.

My mom did bookkeeping when I was younger, so I guess a love of numbers runs in the family. Plus, I’ve always loved math and thinking outside the box. By the time I entered high school I was doing extra math problems with my dad and enrolled in an accounting course. When I found the class fun, I knew I was on to something and thought I’d better pursue it further.

What is the best part of what you do on a day-to-day basis? The most challenging part?
The best part of my day is that I never know what my day is going to be like. I love the challenges and variety that come with my profession. That being said, it is also the most challenging part – not knowing what each day on the job will bring!

Where do you see yourself in 5 years?
Becoming a partner at Crowe Soberman is a new part of my journey. In the next five years, I see myself still striving to do the best I can for my clients, still learning and meeting new people, and hopefully improving my golf game! 

What does success look like to you?
A person is successful when they are able to find something that they love doing and then make it a career. When you love what you do, giving 110% is easy, and then success seems to follow.

What is the most memorable milestone in your career?
Recently becoming a partner at Crowe Soberman. 

Do you have any advice for other young professionals?
Explore your options. Find a career that you’ll enjoy so you can succeed. Find a good mentor. And don’t be afraid to be a leader and have a voice.

Do you support any charities? If so, which one(s) and why is that important to you?
I support the Multiple Sclerosis Society of Canada. My aunt has been living with the constant pain and limitations of MS for several years, but she’s a tenacious fighter with a positive attitude. I admire her and hope a cure is found soon. 

What to you is notable?
Good mentors – there are so many successful people out there striving to help others achieve their goals.

Blackberry, iPhone, Android, or Other?
BlackBerry, but everyone seems to be converting to iPhone….

Describe your ideal retirement: how old will you be and how do you plan on spending your retirement years? (Sponsored by the TD Redefine Retirement Contest)

Crowe Soberman has mandatory retirement for partners to retire at 65. This allows us to grow people within the firm and prepare them for partnership opportunities that will arise. When I do retire, I plan to see more of the world, and to serve on the boards of not-for-profit organizations.

What are you looking forward to most about retiring? (Sponsored by the TD Redefine Retirement Contest) 
I am planning for my retirement, but I’m not looking forward to it yet! There is so much I want to experience in the next 30+ years. While you do need to plan for the future, you also need to make the most of the experiences and opportunities you encounter along the way. Ask me in 20 years or so – I’m sure my answer will change again!