We all want to do business with people we know and like. That’s why we want you to get to know Jennifer Resch, a new team member in MNP’s Private Enterprise practice, who’s passionate about helping businesses succeed. In this Q&A, find out how Jennifer approaches her work and how she’s adapted to the changes brought about by COVID-19.
1. Did you always want to become an accountant?
As a kid, I loved animals and wanted to be a vet until high school when I realized math was my strong suit rather than science. I studied business in university and after my first accounting class, I knew it was the route for me. It was the combination of debits have to equal credits. I like that things must balance. I’m also fairly outgoing and I knew that the CPA route would introduce me to diverse people in a variety of industries.
2. What’s your role at MNP and what drives you?
I am a senior manager in private enterprise. I’m a people person so working with clients and my teammates is something I truly enjoy. I have a sincere desire to help people with everything related to their business. I find it very rewarding; it’s what I am most passionate about.
3. Why did you choose to work in Private Enterprise?
I grew up on a farm in Alberta and understand the endless time commitment, hard work and stress that comes with running a business. It’s not a 9:00 to 5:00 job and it permeates all aspects of your life. I strive to build strong relationships and be someone they can come to with questions about their business. I care deeply and do my best to ensure our compliance work is as painless as possible for my clients and that our consulting and advisory solutions add the most value.
4. What are your clients’ biggest challenges now?
Uncertainty — no one knows when things will get back to whatever "normal" will be. Some clients are thriving, some are struggling and some are staying the same, but all are challenged by uncertainty. As a business owner, you’re trying to make plans and set a direction — but how is the future going to look? When you don’t have a clear timeline, you have to make sure you can adapt to whatever the situation is going to be a month, six months or a year or two from now. My goal is to work with my clients to offer solutions to adapt and pivot where needed.
5. Is there anything positive that came out of the COVID crisis for you?
COVID made my husband and I re-evaluate what really mattered to us in our lives. After living in Calgary for over 15 years, we decided to move to an acreage this year and have not regretted it for one second. We are closer to family, which our kids absolutely love. I also really thought about what I wanted to accomplish with my career, which is why I made the move to MNP. The values championed by MNP really spoke to me. Although a large national firm, they are local in focus with a small-firm culture. I also like that I get to work with both small- to mid-size entrepreneurs.
To get to know Jennifer Resch, CPA, CA, even better, contact her at 587.441.5403 or [email protected].