´╗┐Company: Saskatoon Co-operative Association Ltd

Position: office manager

Employed: three years

Where did you go to school? What program did you attend?
I attended the University of Saskatchewan in Saskatoon. I completed a Bachelor of Commerce degree with a major in accounting in May 2006. After university, I entered the two-year Strategic Leadership Program offered by CMA Canada and successfully obtained my CMA designation in September 2008.

What drew you to your current field?
After I started my first job in high school, I began to take an interest in business. My decision to major in accounting was obvious as I enjoyed working with numbers.

How did you find your current position?
I was working for Saskatoon Co-op as a part-time cashier when I was told about the Student Development Program offered by Federated Co-operatives Limited (FCL). The program placed me in an administration office within the Co-operative Retailing System (CRS) for the summer. I enjoyed working in the retail industry and decided to pursue a career in that field. After I graduated, I continued my experience with the CRS by participating in FCL's post-secondary department manager training program as an accountant and office manager trainee. After six months, I accepted the position as accountant at Saskatoon Co-op and remained in that position for two years before moving up to office manager.

Tell us a bit about your responsibilities.
As office manager, I oversee the administrative and accounting activities of Saskatoon Co-op. I supervise an office of ten employees in various departments including accounts payable, sales audit, member relations, and payroll. I am also responsible for training department managers in online receiving and in weekly and monthly accounting procedures.

What is the most challenging aspect of your position?
Currently, the most challenging aspect of my position is supervising a team. As I am new to this position, I have only recently been able to practice the skills I have learned in regards to managing people effectively and being a good leader.

What is the most rewarding part of your job?
The most rewarding part of my job is being able to share my ideas and opinions, develop a plan of action, and observe as change takes place. It is also inspiring to see the employees learn and develop as a result of my leadership and guidance. jp
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