Get to know Eric Girard, CPA CA, Partner and leader of MNP's Consulting & Digital practice in Quebec

What attracted you to the consulting field?

I worked for large accounting firms for many years, particularly in the audit departments. Even then, what I was most passionate about was being a business advisor for my clients. I developed an expertise optimizing the finance function as well as in technological solutions. I went into consulting because it allowed me to focus on the business consulting side of things full time. What I like most about this industry is being able to spend time with a client to understand their challenges and help the client address them with the right resources.

What led you to join the MNP team?

MNP offered me a great opportunity to build a team and a practice in management consulting and digital consulting for the province of Quebec. My role is to develop the resources and knowledge necessary to support clients, as well as our internal partners. Ultimately, my mandate is to build a team that will enable our members to support their clients. In addition, the team’s expertise will allow us to achieve our clients’ strategic objectives while optimizing their operational and financial processes and implementing innovative technologies.

Tell us about what motivates you most in your work?

I’m a very curious person. I like to meet with clients and listen to them to understand their needs. I offer them the services of a specialized team that will deploy the appropriate solutions for their business.

As part of my job, I also have to develop specialized expertise within MNP. I help my team members progress, and I challenge them with mandates and clients. In this sense, I play an advisory role in the development of employees.

In short, I’m a person who is focused on needs and the help I can provide. That's why the role I've been given at MNP is fulfilling.

What aspects of your job are the most motivating and rewarding?

I’m both a consultant and a strategic partner. It’s an extremely meaningful and rewarding position. In particular I enjoy being able to make a tangible impact, both with clients and with my team members. At the end of the day, I feel as if I've accomplished things that will have a positive effect on those around me. That's why when I wake up in the morning, I always look forward to going to work!

Also, being in charge of building a new practice is very motivating. There is a synergy among the team members. Despite the scarcity of manpower, building a practice where the people around me will have an impact on the final result makes recruitment easier.