Join our BDO Alumni program today to receive our newsletter, The BDO Connection, connect with fellow BDO Alumni, stay informed about events, learn more about what's happening at BDO, or simply update your information with us.
Valerie Filion's day-to-day in the office varies widely and consists of a diverse set of responsibilities, making no two days the same. From managing and working closely with clients, leading and training junior staff, to reviewing statements and providing best-in-class service, the list of responsibilities is endless.
After taking on a role in the construction industry for a few months, she returned to BDO as an Assurance Manager and has since taken up a more pivotal role, bridging the gap between technical intricacies and client comprehension.
Changing careers was a valuable experience that gave Valerie a unique perspective, distinct from the usual environment in an accounting firm. Witnessing firsthand the dynamic interactions among colleagues and observing various teams collaborating to meet each other's needs was insightful. She genuinely appreciates the exposure to the intricate workings of the tasks and processes.
When asked about her experience working in an industry role, Valerie says, "I collaborated with multiple teams and engaged with individuals in diverse roles, which was a significant advantage. However, the limited scope of the role prompted my decision to return to BDO. I felt limited in acquiring new skills compared to the dynamic environment at BDO."
"One of the distinctive aspects of BDO Canada is its commitment to fostering a diverse skill set."
The role allowed her to gain a deeper insight into the company's day-to-day operations, which has cultivated more effective ways of collaborating between the client and their accountant. Working in the industry role has also heightened Valerie's awareness of the value of our client's time. She says, "I often interacted with colleagues who didn't have the in-depth financial expertise that I was so frequently exposed to at BDO, and this led me to develop a skill for simplifying complex concepts easily."
"My ability to bridge the gap between technicalities and client understanding has proven invaluable at BDO, as I approach clients with a clear understanding of their expertise, enhancing communication, collaboration, and creating a more personalized experience."
On what prompted her return to BDO, she said, "It became apparent after some time in the industry role that the opportunity to fully flex my accounting skillset was limited. I was in contact with my BDO coworkers during my time away, so I reached out to my HR contact the moment I realized I wanted to return."
I wouldn't be where I am today if I didn't work at BDO. I'm always encouraged to push for more outside my comfort zone. It has impacted the way I speak with my coaches and clients. The opportunity for continuous training, expanding recruitment efforts, conducting interviews, and assuming additional responsibilities has been pivotal in enhancing my market value. I have taken on a diverse skill set from working at BDO.
In her role as a manager, Valerie is now more invested in providing training programs to her team and shaping the minds and careers of younger colleagues. She works across multiple industries with clients of various sizes, and most importantly, she is in a position where she can share her learnings and experiences from her industry role with colleagues looking to develop their careers. She works closely with the fiscal and advisory team and ensures clients leave with a better understanding of complex accounting concepts.