At Shajani CPA, we are building Canada’s premier accounting, tax, and advisory firm for family-owned enterprises — and we are looking for exceptional leaders to join us on this mission.
We are in search of a high-performing, inspiring, and technically excellent Client Manager (CPA) who is ready to help us deliver world-class professional services while building lasting relationships with our valued clients. You will be instrumental in shaping our tradition of unparalleled client service, employee development, and firm success.
At Shajani CPA, we are more than accountants —
“We ignite ambitions, build futures, and guide our clients toward lasting prosperity.”
You’ll be part of a dynamic team driven by a shared commitment to:
- Excellence without compromise
- Fulfillment through purpose-driven work
- Innovation in every service we deliver
- A deep respect for the trust our clients place in us
As a Client Manager, you will be entrusted to lead client engagements from start to finish, mentor your desk team, deliver trusted financial advice, and advance our mission of being the most trusted firm for Canadian family-owned businesses.
We are a collaborative, high-performing culture where:
- Client Managers coach and develop Accounting Technicians
- Quality and deadlines are non-negotiable
- Success is shared and celebrated across every level
- Your ideas, leadership, and growth matter
If you are a CPA ready to lead client relationships, produce exceptional results, and grow your career in a firm that values people first, then we invite you to build your future with Shajani CPA.
WHAT YOU’LL LEARN
As a Client Manager at Shajani CPA, you will build on the already achieved Level 2 (advanced) competencies across all core CPA technical areas while leading your own client desk. You will manage engagement planning and delivery, provide strategic advisory services, and mentor junior staff. Through structured guidance and real-time leadership experience, you will advance your career as a well-rounded, high-impact professional.
Management Accounting (MA)
- MA5 – Interpreting Reports & Strategy: Analyze financial and non-financial KPIs in Fathom to advise clients on operational strategy.
- MA6 – Overseeing Forecasting: Guide clients through budget reviews and forecasts based on industry benchmarks.
- MA7 – Profitability Strategy: Review pricing models and recommend margin optimization strategies.
- MA8 – Managing Performance Tools: Customize performance dashboards and implement decision-support tools in Fathom.
Financial Reporting (FR)
- FR5 – Managing Engagements: Lead review and compilation engagements from planning to signed delivery.
- FR6 – Resolving Complex Issues: Apply ASPE and relevant standards to resolve accounting treatment questions.
- FR7 – Presenting Statements: Explain key financial results to business owners and guide strategic conversations.
- FR8 – Supervising File Readiness: Ensure all documentation is compliant and assurance-ready for QCR or audit review.
Taxation (TX)
- TX4 – Overseeing Compliance: Coordinate T1 and T2 filings for client portfolios, managing timing, review, and delivery.
- TX5 – Tax Planning: Identify planning opportunities for remuneration, small business deduction, and corporate structuring.
- TX6 – Integrated Strategy: Support succession, retirement, and estate planning discussions using financial and tax projections.
Finance (FN)
- FN4 – Financial Diagnostics: Deliver advisory on cash flow trends, working capital, and profitability drivers.
- FN5 – Financing Support: Assist clients in preparing for bank financing or capital raises, including financial projections.
- FN6 – Integrated Decision-Making: Present cash flow, investment, and tax interactions during advisory sessions.
Strategy & Governance (SG)
- SG4 – Aligning Financial Strategy: Use GAP findings to build financial goals tied to mission and values.
- SG5 – Governance & Risk: Advise on internal processes, director/shareholder structure, and risk mitigation measures.
- SG6 – Strategic Planning: Facilitate client growth discussions and implement short- and long-term execution plans.
POSITION OBJECTIVE
The primary role of the Client Manager at Shajani CPA is to drive the firm’s success by delivering exceptional client service, achieving operational excellence, and fostering long-term client relationships.
The Client Manager leads client engagements from planning to completion, ensuring that time, quality, and profitability targets are consistently met. They serve as a trusted advisor to clients, identifying opportunities for growth, efficiency, and strategic improvement.
A successful Client Manager combines technical excellence, leadership, and a deep intellectual curiosity — proactively recognizing gaps, solving challenges, and delivering innovative solutions that help our clients and our firm thrive.
Qualifications:
Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Business, or Finance
Chartered Professional Accountant (CPA) designation required
Commitment to continuous professional development and excellence in client service
Knowledge, Skills & Experience (Essential):
Minimum of three years of progressive professional accounting experience, with demonstrated technical proficiency
Thorough knowledge of ASPE, CSRS 4200, corporate finance principles, and financial statement preparation
Strong working knowledge of accounting and firm management software (e.g., CaseWare, iFirm, QuickBooks Online)
High personal integrity with the ability to handle sensitive client and firm information with absolute confidentiality
Advanced computer literacy including Microsoft Office Suite (Excel, Word, Outlook, PowerPoint)
Proven teamwork and leadership skills, with the ability to mentor and develop team members
Ability to understand client needs and proactively recommend appropriate services and solutions
Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple client relationships, deadlines, and file budgets
Demonstrated success in managing upward to senior leadership and supporting firm operational goals
Initiative, critical thinking, and a solution-oriented mindset, even under pressure
Budget management experience with a track record of meeting or exceeding time, profitability, and quality targets
Exceptional interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to influence and work effectively with diverse stakeholders
Commitment to professional ethics, Occupational Health and Safety (OH&S), and Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion (EDI) principles
Knowledge, Skills & Experience (Desirable):
Experience with assurance engagements (Review, Audit) and/or international accounting practices
Business management and consulting knowledge, particularly for family-owned enterprises
Demonstrated ability to identify and develop new opportunities to enhance client outcomes and strengthen relationships
Experience overseeing team budgets, workflow scheduling, and profitability metrics
Passion for business, entrepreneurship, and helping clients build generational wealth
Desire for continual professional growth through advanced training, leadership development, and technical specialization
Leadership Attributes (Embedded Across All Areas)
High emotional intelligence and client empathy
A commitment to excellence in every detail
A passion for delivering world-class service and trusted advice
A drive to foster team success and a collaborative, high-performing culture
COMPETENCIES REQUIRED
Management Accounting
(MA)
MA1 – Reporting Systems: Maintain QBO for client books; build standard reporting packs; troubleshoot data flows.
MA2 – Budgeting and Forecasting: Prepare client budgets and cash flow projections in Excel and Fathom.
MA3 – Profitability Analysis: Prepare Profit Cents reports; assist in revenue/cost center benchmarking.
MA4 – Performance Measurement: Build and deliver recurring performance dashboards for goal tracking and accountability.
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Financial Reporting
(FR)
FR1 – Reporting Needs and Systems: Draft year-end schedules; assist in building engagement roadmaps and planning docs.
FR2 – Accounting Policies and Transactions: Book complex AJE’s, post year-end accruals, amortizations, and account reconciliations.
FR3 – Statement Preparation: Prepare ASPE-compliant financials and draft notes using firm templates in CaseWare.
FR4 – Financial Statement Analysis: Analyze variances, prepare summary memos, and contribute insights to CM and Partner review.
Taxation
(TX)
TX1 – Tax Legislation and Research: Summarize CRA publications; help document tax positions for T1 and T2 planning files.
TX2 – Tax Compliance: Input data into tax software; help prepare personal and corporate tax filings, GST returns, and schedules.
TX3 – Tax Planning: Support remuneration strategies, tax deferral plans, and pre-year-end projections under CM guidance.
Finance
(FN)
FN1 – Financial Planning: Help gather financial data and prepare reports for client lending packages and investor updates.
FN2 – Treasury and Cash Flow: Reconcile bank accounts, identify liquidity needs, and support budgeting exercises.
FN3 – Capital Budgeting: Assist with fixed asset tracking, ROI projections, and spreadsheet modeling for internal use.
Assurance
(AA)
AA1 – Internal Controls: Help document control environments, test walkthroughs, and PBC completeness for assurance engagements.
AA2 – Assurance Planning: Prepare assurance lead sheets, TB imports, and assist in planning file structure in CaseWare.
AA3 – Substantive Procedures: Perform basic audit procedures and analytics; prepare testing documentation for review files.
Strategy and Governance
(SG)
SG1 – Governance Foundations: Maintain client profiles, board records, and key business information (minute books, directors, shareholders).
SG2 – Strategic Implementation: Help track progress from GAP meetings, identify reporting gaps, and align file goals with client mission.
SG3 – Risk and Governance Oversight: Ensure proper client documentation and controls are in place to support business decisions.
Key Performance Measures
KPIWhat is MeasuredHow it is Measured1. File Completion TimelinessDelivering each client file within 10 business days or earlier than the promised datesTracking file start and completion dates in iFirm, comparing against scheduled delivery dates2. Average Hourly Rate (AHR) AchievementMeeting or exceeding AHR targets for individual files and overall deskAHR tracked per file and desk using internal profitability and billing reports3. Technical Accuracy and File QualityFiles passing QCR review with minimal revisions requiredQCR review scores, revision notes, and Partner feedback prior to final sign-off4. Client Satisfaction and Service ExcellencePositive client feedback, trust gained, and minimal escalationsInformal client feedback, periodic satisfaction surveys, escalation review logs, Partner observations5. Team Leadership and CollaborationEffective mentoring of ATs and collaboration across desks (Tax, Assurance, Finance)Feedback from ATs, cross-desk project tracking, Partner, and GM evaluations
ORGANIZATIONAL RELATIONSHIPS
Reports to:
- Quality Control Reviewer (QCR) – for technical quality control, engagement review, and compliance standards
- General Manager (GM) – for operational performance, scheduling, client workflow management, and productivity metrics
Manages:
- Assigned Accounting Technicians (ATs) within the Client Manager’s desk
- Assigned Client Excellence Coordinators (CECs) for desk-specific workflow
- Individual client workflow, including budgets, timeframes, deliverables, and overall client relationship management
Internal Contacts:
- Partners (for strategic direction and final client sign-off)
- Quality Control Reviewer (technical file review and compliance)
- General Manager (desk capacity, scheduling, and operational matters)
- Assurance Manager (for assurance desk collaboration)
- Tax Manager (for tax planning and specialized tax file collaboration)
- Accounting Technicians (mentoring and supervision)
- Client Excellence Coordinators (desk organization and client coordination)
- Other Client Managers and Specialty Desk Leaders (cross-desk collaboration)
ORGANIZATIONAL AUTHORITY
Decisions Made in the Position:
- Day-to-day management of client engagements, file workflows, and time budgets
- Delegation of tasks to ATs and CECs to ensure efficient and accurate client service delivery
- Recommendations to clients regarding accounting policies, financial reporting options, basic tax strategies, and service opportunities (subject to Partner or TM/QCR review where appropriate)
- Internal scheduling decisions and coordination of resources within the assigned desk
Decisions Referred:
- Final file approvals and sign-off (to QCR and Partners)
- Strategic client issues, major technical matters, pricing adjustments, and client escalations (to Partners)
- Operational or staffing escalations (to General Manager)
- Engagement acceptance and client onboarding exceptions (to Partners)
General Responsibilities
· Lead and manage the Accounting Technicians (ATs) and Client Excellence Coordinators (CECs) assigned to your desk to ensure maximum capacity utilization, productivity, and efficiency
· Provide ongoing training, coaching, and development to ATs and CECs in alignment with organizational goals, service standards, and competency frameworks
· Review client files for technical accuracy and quality, providing constructive feedback and support to team members to maintain Shajani CPA standards
· Manage the client engagement lifecycle, including accurate financial reporting, general ledger reconciliation, variance analysis, and verification of client data
· Identify, recommend, and present client advisory opportunities (remuneration planning, budgeting, basic tax planning, growth strategies) aligned with Shajani CPA objectives and client needs
· Monitor internal desk policies, workflows, and procedures; suggest improvements for better efficiency, accuracy, and client service
· Ensure all client work complies with applicable financial reporting frameworks (ASPE, CSRS 4200) and CRA compliance standards
· Stay current with changes in accounting standards, tax legislation, and industry best practices through professional development and training initiatives
· Support the timely completion of monthly, quarterly, and annual client deliverables, including journal entries, working paper documentation, financial statement preparation, and management reporting
· Prepare client financial packages with supporting schedules, variance commentary, and analysis of cash flow and working capital as required
· Maintain updated and accurate records for profit and loss, liabilities, taxes, and balance sheet accounts for assigned clients
· Produce and present special client reports and financial insights to assist with strategic decision-making
· Build and maintain trusted client relationships by deeply understanding client needs and anticipating future opportunities
· Coordinate internal and external resources, including specialty desks (Tax, Assurance, Finance), to ensure client deliverables are met efficiently and to high quality
· Act as the primary communication channel between clients and the firm, ensuring smooth information flow and a proactive service experience
· Maintain familiarity with all firm service offerings to identify cross-service opportunities for clients (Tax Planning, Assurance, Wealth, Advisory)
· Achieve client satisfaction goals while maintaining internal service and profitability metrics (AHR, workflow timing, desk utilization)
· Solve client issues proactively, always aiming to exceed expectations and solidify client loyalty
· Contribute to firm-wide growth initiatives by identifying opportunities for client referrals, additional services, and prospecting (as appropriate)
· Participate actively in brainstorming sessions, firm meetings, and client meetings; assist in developing programs and solutions for existing and prospective clients
· Maintain accurate records of client communications, workflows, engagement letters, and deliverables within iFirm and CaseWare
· Ensure all financial work and client records fully comply with Shajani CPA internal policies, quality control requirements, and applicable regulatory standards.
Acknowledgement
This job description has been designed to indicate the general nature and level of work performed by the client manager within this classification. It is not designed to contain or be interpreted as a comprehensive inventory of all duties, responsibilities and qualifications required of employees assigned to the role.
Our firm was established in 1984 with the goal of providing clients customized financial accounting, assurance, and tax services. We’re committed to providing close, personal attention to our clients and have since expanded our offerings to provide them with comprehensive financial and tax solutions.
Our clients have the piece of mind knowing they are in the best hands, this is backed by our team’s advanced training, technical experience, and financial acumen. We stay on top of our business through continued investment in time and resources including professional continuing education, state-of-the-art computer technology and forging strong business partnerships within our centres of influence
Shajani CPA is a proud equal opportunities employer, and we are committed to creating a respectful, inclusive workplace that allows all of our people to reach their full potential. We welcome all qualified candidates to apply and hope you will choose Shajani CPA as your employer of choice.
What do we offer?
As well as being part of a talented team, our benefits include:
- Competitive salary and excellent benefits package
- Hybrid and flexible working arrangement
- Annual and quarterly team events
- Regular training sessions and professional development opportunities
For general recruitment-related inquiries, please contact [email protected]
Job Types: Full-time, Permanent
Pay: $80,000.00-$95,000.00 per year
Benefits:
- Company events
- Dental care
- Extended health care
- Paid time off
Ability to commute/relocate:
- Red Deer, AB: reliably commute or plan to relocate before starting work (required)
Education:
- Secondary School (required)
Experience:
Location:
Work Location: Hybrid remote in Red Deer, AB
