Andrea Chan: Balancing career and family at MNP
Andrea Chan’s (she/her) journey at MNP began as a co-op student at the University of Waterloo. After completing her CPA, she swiftly advanced through the ranks, eventually taking on more leadership-focused roles.
However, her most pivotal career moment came during maternity leave.
"I received a call from then-CEO Daryl Ritchie while on leave, telling me I had made Partner," Andrea recalls, laughing. "I can still remember my baby crying in the background."
It was a unique challenge returning to work in a completely different role, but Andrea says the support from her team smoothed the transition and quickly helped her find her groove. She credits MNP’s entrepreneurial spirit and openness to new ideas as key drivers in her career success.
"The attitude at MNP is that you have to take risks if you want to succeed. It’s okay to make mistakes as long as you’re learning from them to make yourself and the firm stronger."
Flexibility has been essential in managing her dual roles as a business leader and a mother.
Flexibility has been essential in managing her dual roles as a business leader and a mother. "When my kids were young, I would log on after work or respond to a few emails," she says. This balance allowed her to maintain client relationships while being present for her family.
Andrea emphasizes the need to clearly define boundaries, stating, "We can’t expect others to know our limits if we don’t communicate them."
Challenging the traditional nine-to-five concept, Andrea embraces a fluid schedule, prioritizing her family while remaining productive at work. "Having kids has made me more efficient," she explains. "I know I can’t work endlessly, so I have to be smart with my time."
For those aspiring to leadership at MNP, Andrea advises focusing on the bigger picture. "If you’re doing the right things, success will come. Control your career, and the financial rewards will follow."
Andrea’s story highlights how MNP nurtures a flexible, entrepreneurial environment, allowing her to thrive both professionally and personally.