Q. When did you receive your Certificate in Production Accounting?
A. 2014
Q. What is your current role/company?
A. PA System Conversion Analyst, Financial Acct & Controls – Operations Accounting at Canadian Natural Resources Ltd.
Q. How does your understanding of Production Accounting help you in your work?
A. Knowing Production Accounting help’s me truly understand Oil and Gas accounting. I like to refer to Production Accounting as the “ground up”. In the last 5-6 years I have noticed that any Accountant who knows PA truly understands where the numbers come from – whether you work in Royalties, Tax, or Financial Reporting.
Q. Tell us what you most enjoy about your current role.
A. I would say the company I am working for is a great place to work! In terms of the day to day job duties – my Accounting Designation combined with CAPPA allow me to really get into the financial and technical analysis related to Oil and Gas.
Q. What have some of your roles been over the years?
A. I have been at Canadian Natural Resources Ltd. for 6 years. I started as a co-op student in PA and worked on many PA desks through my first 3 years with the company. Then an opportunity arose to be a part of a PA System Conversion which is where I am today.
Q. Tell us about some of the roles/activities you have done as a CAPPA Volunteer
A. I have previously volunteered to serve on the Conference Committee. I have also been a part of the Tradeshow which involved meeting with and talking to many vendors and government personnel. This was a key revenue generator for the conference so it was very important to keep good relations with our vendors.
Q. What do you like to do outside of your career?
A. I enjoy going to the gym, working on my cars, and travelling.
Q. What is the key benefit you see in CAPPA membership?
A. Working in accounting in Oil & Gas, CAPPA is a valuable asset to have on your resume; it show’s you are serious about Property Accounting and with our industry and the aging population it is essential to land a good PA position at a reputable company.
Q. Do you have any advice to Junior PAs just starting their careers?
A. I would say to go the extra mile, double check your work, and ask questions! In today’s challenging times, companies are working hard to cut costs and making mistakes (especially in PA) can lead to amendments and reworks which can affect not only your employer – but all parties and partners involved. If you don’t understand something… just ask! PA can be very technical and I am sure you can get help from your colleagues!
