My Work My Education: Wendy Szeto

Wendy Szeto, CMA
Associate Director of Student Financial Services
The Art Institute of Vancouver

MY WORK

Hours worked per week: 40 hours

Years at this position: 2 years

What is the best part of your job?
The best part of my job is working with a diverse team of talented and performance driven people who are motivated to seek  continual improvements.  It’s also a rewarding experience to witness the success of students, both individually and professionally, as they complete their programs of study.

What are some of the challenges you’re currently facing at work?
The key opportunities are to equip and develop team members’ skills to effectively customize and negotiate financial solutions for our students, so that they can successfully complete their programs.

How is this position different from other jobs you’ve had?
This position gives me the opportunity to develop my leadership and management skills while allowing me to deal with changes and promote best practices.

MY EDUCATION

Degree(s) & Institution: Bachelor of Social Science, Chinese University of Hong Kong and Certified Management Accountant (CMA) designation

Why did you choose to pursue a CMA? 
I choose to pursue a CMA because of its focus on strategic management. An understanding of what strategic management is and how it’s used was key to building upon my skill sets in financial and accounting knowledge.

When did you complete your CMA program? 2009

LIFESTYLE

Favorite recreational activity: Badminton

Upcoming Vacation plans: To trek the Great Wall with my family

MY FUTURE

In five years, I see myself (both professionally and personally):
I am passionate about continuing to work in the education industry, as it fosters life-long learning and continual professional development.  In five years, I see myself taking on a progressive role that has a d