Masonga Chipanshi, CPA
Finding Success in Canada and Abroad
January 25, 2020
The Canadian CPA is one of the world’s largest and most respected designations, and it could be your opportunity to travel, work and consult around the world. Like the thousands of Canadian CPAs who work abroad, Masonga Chipanshi, CPA saw firsthand how valuable the Canadian CPA designation is.
"I never understood the value of a Canadian CPA designation until I worked abroad… It opens opportunities internationally but also domestically. It is a symbol of dedication, ethical conduct, and commitment to learning.”
Masonga Chipanshi, CPA manages the Saskatchewan Assurance practice at Deloitte LLP (Deloitte). By revenue, Deloitte was the largest accounting firm in the world in 2019 and is considered to be one of the “Big 4” firms globally.
Attracted to a career as a CPA because of the unlimited growth potential and career opportunities, Masonga chose to work in public accounting due to the early chances for leadership and development. He completed the Master of Public Accounting (MPAcc) degree at the Edwards School of Business, a full-time, classroom-based alternative to the CPA Professional Education Program (PEP). The MPAcc allows graduates to both earn a graduate-level degree and advance directly to the Common Final Examination (CFE) of CPA PEP. Masonga successfully wrote the CFE and earned his CPA designation in 2017.
Although Masonga feels that working with people is the best part of his job, he has also worked with innovative technologies, including artificial intelligence, robotic process automation, and blockchain. He has also taken advantage of opportunities to work abroad. In 2018, Masonga took an 18-month international secondment with Deloitte Caribbean and Bermuda. Based out of Deloitte's Cayman Islands office, he provided audit and assurance services for Alternative Investment and Financial Institution clients.
“I would undoubtedly recommend this opportunity to any current and future CPAs. I learned important technical skills in finance and US GAAP while also expanding my exposure to a different culture, working styles, and methodologies. I have also gained new friends for a lifetime.”
The experience of working abroad has made Masonga better prepared for the challenge of today’s global business environment. Now home in Regina, he has taken on more leadership roles and clients engaging in international business activities. Masonga has the following advice for aspiring CPAs:
“Beginning a new career can be intimidating. What most of us fail to acknowledge is that our bosses and their bosses were once in that same position. Never be afraid to ask for clarification, advice, or feedback… there will always be a learning curve.”
* Editor's note: Prior to publishing this feature, Masonga Chipanshi, CPA accepted a new role as Finance Manager at SaskTel.