Meet Our Newest Team Members
Illia Mrachkovskyi joined our firm on Wednesday, December 20, 2023, assuming the role of Tax Technician. Prior to joining Kerr, he completed his Bachelor of Commerce with a major in Law and Business. He has approximately three years of experience working as an accounting assistant at a bakery in Toronto. In his spare time, Illia’s entrepreneurial spirit shines through as he researches investments and real estate opportunities. Illia is hard-working and dedicated to his work, making him a valuable asset to our team.
Joel Arshoff joined our firm on Monday, February 5, 2024, stepping into the role of Manager of Client Accounting with over 10 years of experience in full-cycle accounting, preparation, and review of personal, corporate, and trust returns. Additionally, Joel brings three years of experience in people management, having led a team of up to seven accounting professionals. In 2012, Joel received his CPA designation and in 2022, he completed the In-Depth Tax Course. Joel is friendly, easy to talk to, and knowledgeable in tax. In his personal life, Joel recently celebrated the arrival of his second baby girl. We extend our heartfelt congratulations, to him and his family on this wonderful addition!
Congratulations to Mandy!
Interview with our own Mandy Xian – a Senior Staff Accountant working out of our Kerr Toronto office who recently successfully completed her CPA designation.
What inspired you to study accounting?
Mandy: I discovered early on in high school that I was very good at math. Unlike other students at school who also excelled in science, I was drawn more to math and accounting. As a result, I took additional courses in this area which set me on this path. My hard work paid off, and I was eventually accepted into the Honours Business Program and Ivey School of Business at Western University in Canada, where I completed my University Degree.
Why did you decide to pursue your CPA?
Mandy: After graduating from Western, pursuing my CPA was a logical next step. Although I majored in Accounting and Finance, I still found myself particularly drawn to accounting and tax. I even completed the CFA Level 1 exam, during a summer holiday when I was looking for a challenge, however the CPA program became my number one focus once I was accepted into the program.
What do you enjoy most about working at Kerr?
Mandy: While I enjoy the work and learning opportunities, it’s really the team and our clients that I love the most. Kerr has also been incredibly supportive of my professional development, and I’ve especially enjoyed my work completing the in-depth tax program. It’s fascinating to learn how to read and interpret the Income Tax Act and to develop a logical process for researching tax questions that come up in my work.
What is a proud accomplishment of yours?
Mandy: One of my recent accomplishments was completing a half marathon in Vancouver with friends right after tax season. Finding time to run during that busy period was tough, so finishing the race felt great. I hope to tackle a full marathon soon – it’s on my bucket list!
Would you recommend the CPA to other students and friends?
Mandy: Absolutely, yes. The CPA program covers a wide range of topics that set you up for success in various areas of business. It’s a valuable learning experience.
What do you do for fun?
Mandy: I love running, as well as practicing yoga and Pilates to stay in shape.
