Q & A with a CMA working at Stantec

Don Craig, CMA
Controller, US East Operating Region

Q. What motivated you to get your CMA designation?
A. I wanted to have a balance of knowing the numbers and understanding the core fundamentals of accounting and finance, but I also wanted to be able to apply this as a key component of a business. I chose the CMA route because it would enable me to apply the concepts I learned to my career and would allow me to tackle new opportunities.

Q. How long have you worked for Stantec and what is your position?
A. I joined Stantec in July 2005, originally to be the Controller for the largest operating region, Western Canada. I am already on my third position within Stantec as the Controller for the US East operating region, based out of Boston, MA.

Q. What are some of the tasks that you are responsible for at Stantec?
A. I am focused on leading my team of approximately 60 staff to support the business and enable it to achieve its potential. With the tremendous growth by acquisition in Stantec, a key element of this role is the integration of an acquired company, their staff and financial information. This requires me to communicate, train and work closely with various teams in the organization to enable a timely transition. Other key tasks include: financial analysis, assessment of new business opportunities, cash flow management, strategic and tactical planning and training.

Q. How has the CMA designation helped you advance your career?
A. The ability to bring a breadth of experience and insight to the business beyond the financial statements has been a significant asset. With this approach, you can bring a more creative approach to communicating results, processes, expectations and translating the financial jargon into business metrics. As a moderator with the CMA Strategic Leadership Program, I also benefit from staying current with financial, strategy and organizational topics that can be applied on a regular basis.

Q. What do you enjoy most about working at Stantec?
A. Being part of a prominent organization in Western Canada brings with it a sense of pride. Seeing the work that the brilliant designers, engineers and architects do on high-profile projects is a daily source of inspiration. I can walk into so many buildings and say, "My company played a role in this!" Now that I'm based based in the eastern United States, where the name Stantec is not as prominent, I get the thrill of creating awareness of the organization and helping to build its brand and influence.

Q. Why should CMAs and potential CMAs consider a career at Stantec?
A. Stantec has consistently proven that it can provide great opportunities for those who will take initiative, be adaptable and are willing to challenge the status quo. There are so many different areas for a CMA to get involved in such as working with operations to build their business, internal audit, acquisitions, treasury, taxation and critical core functions. It is a demanding pace but is rewarding – not just in terms of compensation, but also in terms of recognition and opportunity.