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Thought Leadership, Research & CPA Spotlights

From Intern to CEO: How the CPA is Helping Alycia Calvert, FCPA, FCA, Shape the Future of Global Business

Alycia Calvert, FCPA, FCA has earned a reputation as a transformative leader. As Chair and CEO of EY Canada, Alycia is helping firms tackle some of the biggest disruptors reshaping the Canadian and global economy.

Starting as an intern, her journey has taken her to the very top of business in Canada.

An Early Spark

Alycia didn’t begin her career with a set destination. She studied economics before moving into business at Western’s Ivey Business School. It wasn’t until a summer internship at EY Canada that she discovered all the doors the CPA designation could open.

“I was exposed to so many different businesses, different industries, different sizes, different scales. There was such a huge world of possibilities,” said Alycia. “And that's when I decided to become a CPA. “

For her, the CPA designation meant options and opportunities.  “Being a CPA meant I didn’t have to choose just one path,” she says. “It opened up a whole world of possibilities.”

Trusted Leadership in an Era of Transformation

Alycia’s path has taken her to a leadership role where she helps global and Canadian organizations navigate seismic shifts in technology, economics and society.

“30 years ago, I could not have told you I would be spending most of my days talking about emerging technology, discussing quantum computing with my clients, about how they can evolve their organizations in a responsible and trusted way,” she says. “I never would have believed it, but that's what I do every single day.”

“CPAs bring a unique balance of judgment and innovation. They help build organizations’ trust in times of real uncertainty.”

The Foundation to Lead

As a CEO of one of the most prestigious organizations of its kind, she credits her CPA with helping her build the foundation she needs to lead. “I use the CPA foundation today to make big decisions, decision that rely on the strategic thinking, the technical foundation and the skills that I've learned over my career as a CPA. It’s helped me become the leader that I am today.”

She relies on the discipline and perspectives of her CPA training every day. “CPAs bring the ability to think strategically, to really understand the full picture and come to thoughtful decisions that help lead business forward.”

Ready to Lead Like Alycia Calvert?

The CPA designation gives you the foundation to lead, to innovate, and to shape the future of business on a national and global stage. Are you ready to lead the future of business?