CGA-Canada Repeats as a Top Employer 

For the second year in a row, the Certified General Accountants Association of Canada (CGA-Canada) has been recognized as one of Canada’s Top 100 Employers and one of B.C.’s Top 50 Employers for 2009.

“These awards are especially gratifying this year as they coincide with the association’s 100^th anniversary celebrations,” said Anthony Ariganello, President and CEO of CGA-Canada. “CGA-Canada has grown to comprise a diverse group of talented, dedicated employees who provide a range of services to our members across the country; develop and maintain the profession’s leading accounting education and certification program; contribute their professional expertise to regulatory boards, international agencies, the academic community and the public policy arena; and protect the public interest by setting and implementing stringent professional standards.”

These national and provincial competitions recognize employers who lead their industries in offering exceptional workplaces for their employees. Employers were evaluated against a number of criteria including workforce; physical environment; the work and social atmosphere; health, financial and family benefits; vacation and time off; employee engagement; training and skills development; environmental leadership; and community involvement.

This year, CGA-Canada moved its national head office from leased space in downtown Vancouver to a brand new building owned by the association in neighbouring Burnaby. In order to minimize the possible disruptive effects of relocation, management consulted widely with all staff and communicated regularly on the progress of the building’s construction and the plans for the office move. Those consultations resulted in measures such as an employee transportation subsidy to offset increased commuting costs, a well-equipped in-house fitness facility, improved kitchen and lounge facilities, and a range of environmentally-friendly initiatives.

Among other new measures the association adopted this year is an increase to critical illness insurance benefits for both employees and dependents. This benefit was well-received by staff, who were shocked by the sudden and unexpected passing of several popular colleagues in recent years. Additional enhancements were made to employee benefits and programs, helping to create a well-rounded compensation model in a competitive environment.

The reasons for selection for each of the Top 100 Employers are published online at www.canadastop100.com/national. CGA-Canada, the national association representing Canada’s Certified General Accountants, has offices in Burnaby, B.C. and Ottawa, Ontario.