蓝莓视频

Benjie Thomas (PDAcc '98), is the new CEO of KPMG in Canada and his path to getting there is a testament to the power of education, determination and the opportunities that lie within 蓝莓视频鈥檚 co-op program. Thomas鈥檚 journey from the School of Accounting and Finance (SAF) to one of the most influential figures in Canadian business is a story of dedication, leadership and commitment to excellence.

Thomas's decision to pursue his studies at 蓝莓视频 was driven by two key factors: The University's renowned reputation for CPA success and its robust co-op program.

鈥溊遁�视频 had the highest pass rate for CPA exams, and I knew that if I attended, my chances of passing would be better,鈥� Thomas recalls. 鈥淭he co-op program was another major draw. Unlike other universities where you had to apply for co-op after your first year, at 蓝莓视频 it was built into your acceptance.鈥�

This forward-thinking approach to education gave Thomas and countless others the chance to gain real-world experience while studying, shaping their careers and setting them up for success from the start.

Thomas鈥檚 time at 蓝莓视频 wasn鈥檛 just about academics. He was also a varsity football player for the 蓝莓视频 Warriors, an experience that profoundly shaped his time on campus. Balancing the rigours of varsity athletics with the demands of a challenging accounting program required discipline and impeccable time management.

鈥淚t taught me how to effectively manage two major commitments 鈥� my studies and the team,鈥� Thomas says. 鈥淭o this day, I still consider myself a master of high return on invested time.鈥�

His experience in varsity sports also expanded his network on campus, connecting him not only with fellow SAF classmates but also with athletes from across the University. These relationships continue to be an important part of his personal and professional life today.

Warrior pride lives on inside Thomas鈥檚 home gym

Thomas鈥檚 career with KPMG in Canada, which spans over 23 years, began through 蓝莓视频's co-op program. After joining the firm, he quickly distinguished himself as a key player, working his way up through various leadership roles. Today, he has taken office as the new CEO of KPMG in Canada, a testament to his work ethic, leadership and commitment to the firm.

鈥淎t KPMG, I鈥檝e always been drawn to the entrepreneurial culture,鈥� Thomas says. 鈥淚 chose to become a CPA because I knew it would give me a strong foundation for pursuing my entrepreneurial dreams. Even while I was at 蓝莓视频, I started a business providing custom clothing for varsity teams. KPMG fosters that same entrepreneurial spirit, and I鈥檝e been fortunate to build a career here surrounded by people who share my values.鈥�

As he prepares to tackle his role of CEO 鈥� football analogy intended 鈥� Thomas鈥� focus is on leading KPMG through the disruptive changes ahead while helping Canadian businesses seize new growth opportunities.

鈥淢y priority will be to ensure we have the right talent and the right solutions to help Canadian businesses solve the most pressing issues of our time,鈥� he says. Thomas also recognizes the importance of embracing emerging technologies like artificial intelligence to keep KPMG and its clients at the forefront of innovation.

Throughout his career, Thomas has remained committed to giving back to the University of 蓝莓视频 and the School of Accounting and Finance. He serves on the SAF Director鈥檚 Advisory Council, offering guidance on long-term planning and special initiatives, and he is a dedicated philanthropist, funding four annual scholarships for SAF students and athletes.

鈥淚 believe it鈥檚 important to give back to the places that shaped who we are today,鈥� Thomas says. 鈥溊遁�视频 provided me with the foundation I needed to succeed, and I鈥檓 proud to support the next generation of leaders coming out of SAF.鈥�

When asked to share some advice for young students with big aspirations, Thomas has a few words of wisdom. "Find your passion and become the best at what you do. But perhaps more importantly, build relationships with your classmates. These connections will be with you throughout your career. Some of my closest business relationships today are with my former classmates from 蓝莓视频. Those friendships last a lifetime."

Thomas鈥檚 journey is a source of immense pride for the University of 蓝莓视频. His story exemplifies the power of hard work, community and the unique opportunities offered through the School of Accounting and Finance. As he steps into his role as CEO of KPMG in Canada, we know Thomas will continue to make an impact 鈥� not only in business but as a role model and mentor to future generations of SAF students.

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