Meet the Valley’s First ‘Certified Professional Bookkeeper’
Sherri-Lee Mathers, of Balsam Way Bookkeeping in Courtenay, has become the Comox Valley’s first ever Certified Professional Bookkeeper (CPB), a designation awarded by the prestigious Institute of Professional Bookkeepers of Canada.
“Bookkeeping may not be the most glamorous task, but it’s one that every business owner must be confident is being done properly,” said Mathers. “Yet in the Comox Valley at least, there’s never been a way to distinguish professional bookkeepers from ‘kitchen table bookkeepers’ whose lack of experience and formal training could actually do more harm than good.”
Many business owners have learned the consequences of using an under-qualified bookkeeper the hard way, says Mathers.
“They get a real surprise at tax time when they’re presented with a huge accounting bill or they have to go through an audit,” she explains. “In the worst case scenario, the company could actually be driven out of business.
“If your books are kept properly,” she adds, “there’s less work for your accountant, and you shouldn’t have to worry about an audit.”
The Institute of Professional Bookkeepers of Canada (IPBC) was formed in 2007 in order to institute professional standards for the Canadian bookkeeping profession.
“More than 60,000 Canadians hang out their shingle as a 'bookkeeper’, yet competency in that industry ranges from stellar to mediocre,” said Gordon Skillen, Executive Director of IPBC. “Who is the best professional to do the important compliance work required by law of business owners? Business owners and employers will come to demand the CPB designation.”
Mathers received national CPB designation in March after passing an exhaustive three-hour, 450-question exam. To maintain her certification, she must comply with the IPBC’s exacting standards for continual professional development.
“CPB designation assures my clients that they’re getting knowledgeable advice and professional service,” said Mathers. “Many business owners don’t realize the benefits of hiring a Certified Professional Bookkeeper. I can help them maximize profits, make informed business decisions and ultimately spend more time doing what they love. Isn’t that what owning a business is all about?”
In addition to being the Valley’s first Certified Professional Bookkeeper, Mathers also has a Business Administration Diploma in Accounting and is a member of the Canadian Payroll Association.
To discover the benefits of hiring a CPB, visit www.balsamway.ca. Sherri-Lee Mathers can be reached at 778-427-1122.
To learn more about the IPBC, visit www.ipbc.ca.
|
Professional Copywriting and Business Communications
