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| Ernst & Young LLP partner, Cynthia Orr speaks to The Vancouver Board of Trade’s Leaders of Tomorrow Mentorship Program. See photo gallery. All photos: Vision Event Photography |
This bi-annual series sponsored by The Institute of Chartered Accountants of Bristish Columbia (ICABC) once again provided young people an outstanding opportunity to learn from two highly accomplished Chartered Accountants (CA’s) about their respective career paths and the benefits of holding a CA designation. Guests heard from Canucks Sports & Entertainment chief operating officer, Victor de Bonis, and Ernst & Young LLP partner, Cynthia Orr.
As a youth, Cynthia had aspirations of becoming a professional golfer but was soon encouraged to pursue her Chartered Accountant designation from her mentors, family, and fellow golfers. Having a CA has enabled Cynthia to have five distinct careers, travel extensively, and develop outstanding relationships, including that with her husband who is also a CA. Cynthia encouraged guests to listen to their mentors, learn from colleagues, and take time to support others. These attributes have helped her to lead an impressive career while supporting her company and community.
Victor shared his career path, which begun while parking cars at the Pacific Coliseum at the age of 15. It was with the help of connections he made at this job that would eventually help him land his current role as Canucks COO. During Victor’s first three years with the organization, they built GM Place (now Rogers Arena), established an NBA franchise (Vancouver Grizzlies), and came within two goals of winning the Stanley Cup. Victor explained that these events provided him with half a career worth of experiences in just a few years. De Bonis places great emphasis on hard work, honesty, and taking a genuine interest in people as relationships are critical to any successful career.
Following the speaker presentations, the floor was opened to questions. Guests asked about various topics, including how to cope with pressure and how to establish a work life balance. Both Victor and Cynthia have developed an ability to remain calm in stressful situations by thinking clearly and relying on their outstanding teams. Neither presenter defined work-life balance within the conventional nine-to-five framework, but instead have people and activities in their lives to help them recharge their energy levels to deal with the demands of their positions.
Following the program, guests enjoyed appetizers and refreshments courtesy of ICABC. Cynthia and Victor were incredibly generous with their time as they answered a barrage of questions from CA hopefuls and students. The Vancouver Board of Trade would like to thank The Institute of Chartered Accountants of British Columbia and both speakers for making this event possible. ICABC is a long-time supporter and proud event sponsor of the Leaders of Tomorrow Mentorship Program. More information about how you can obtain a CA Designation is available at www.becomea.ca
Sponsored by:
The Institute of Chartered Accountants of BC
This event is presented by the Vancouver Board of Trade's Leaders of Tomorrow Mentorship Program