Get to Know Jordan Pernarowski

Jordan Pernarowski didn’t grow up longing to become an accountant. Like many Canadian kids, he loved sports, especially hockey, and didn’t have a particular career in mind. Today Jordan, a Chartered Professional Accountant and Partner with MNP, gets a real charge out of helping his clients succeed. We caught up with Jordan in his Dauphin office to learn more about him and his approach when it comes to helping business owners and professionals. 

How did you get into accounting?

My mom had her own accounting firm. I decided to get my CPA and use it in business in some way — I wasn’t sure if was going to stay in accounting or if I was going to go into industry. I started working in accounting and ended up really liking it and staying with it.

What do you like about it?

I like that every day is a little different. One day I’m helping a farmer, the next day I’m helping a small business owner, and the next day I’m working with a medical professional. I enjoy helping people be successful and the variety of things I get to do, and I just like the change. It keeps you on your toes.

What is your role at MNP?

I work with clients on compilation and review engagements. As their advisor, I’m often meeting with clients to help them come up with solutions to their challenges, and I make sure I’m available to them when they need me. As a Partner in the firm, I am also here to work with our team, helping the staff with their work and guiding them in their careers as well.

How would you characterize your approach to helping clients?

I always tell my clients that I don’t want to be your accountant, I want to be part of your team. I really try to be there for them as much as I can, so If they have an idea they want to bounce off me, or a problem suddenly comes up, they have support. When it comes to taxes and running their businesses, I try to make it as easy as I can for them. Most of my clients have my cell phone number and will text to ask questions or arrange to get together for coffee.

What does it take to run a successful business?

There is a misconception that people who own their own businesses don’t have to work very much, but the clients that are successful are the ones that work all the time. The other thing is that they make decisions based on information. For instance, if they buy a new piece of equipment for the farm or the business, they make sure it’s the right time to do it. They also have a good team — a good staff, a good accountant, a good lawyer. All of that is very important.

What have you learned about yourself during your professional journey?

I think I’ve learned that I’m an entrepreneur. I like new businesses and new challenges, and I really enjoy helping people and working with them.

How do you enjoy life outside of work?

I enjoy life in lots of ways. I have two kids, so in the summer we’re golfing and at baseball and in the winter we’re busy with hockey. In Dauphin there’s a number of activities to do all year, so we like getting outside and just having fun.