From Solving Challenges to Developing People: How Jimi Olu‑Ayeni, CPA, CA helps to guide business through uncertainty.

For Jimi Olu-Ayeni, CPA, CA, Partner, Assurance at PwC, the best thing about the designation is how it helps him thrive amidst uncertainty and support clients, business leaders, team members and future talent so that they can do the same. “As a CPA, my role is to help people solve their most important problems,” Jimi says. “That is how I make an impact.”

It starts with seeing what’s possible

Jimi’s curiosity about how business works was sparked at a young age. His mother was an accountant, and he was fascinated by the prospect of understanding how complex organizations work across national borders and over multiple jurisdictions.

Years later he ran into CPAs at an information session held on the University of Toronto campus and his mind was set. “I met smart people with fascinating stories about how they were helping clients” Jimi said. “They were working across industries, operating at a strategic level, and I thought to myself, ‘I want to do that.’"

After earning his CPA designation, what followed was a journey that took him from assurance and strategy to transformation and emerging technologies.

Solving problems on the global and local level

Working at a firm like PwC means dealing with complex issues that can cross international borders.

“Whether it’s tax services, assurance services or consulting deals, there are so many opportunities for you to branch out into whatever you’re interested in,” said Jimi.

No matter the size and the scope, solving complex problems starts with building trust with clients.

“I am a people person, and the most rewarding aspects of my role as a CPA are all people-related,” said Jimi. “The days that I’m happiest are the days where the support and insights I provide to clients helps them to scale and grow.”

And for many business owners, it’s not just about helping them to build a business. It’s about helping them to build a life and a future.

“When you have clients who run their own businesses, it’s more than just a job,” said Jimi. “It’s their life’s work, their family’s work, their retirement plan. They are betting their future on this business they built and they’re looking to you for help.”

Whether it’s tax or succession planning, Jimi helps his clients deal with complex issues. “When you advise your clients along their journey, seeing them grow and fulfil their ambitions along the way, it’s meaningful for you and it’s meaningful for them,” said Jimi. “And the best part is that you build a relationship that lasts a lifetime.”

Supporting the next generation of leaders

For Jimi, it’s not just about supporting his clients. It’s also about supporting the next generation of CPAs. And he has seen firsthand how important mentoring and coaching can be.

“One of the proudest moments for me is when I see a colleague who may have been a little unsure about themselves when they first walked in the door lead a presentation to a senior vice president two years later,” said Jimi.

Through coaching and mentorship, Jimi has seen how investing in young talent creates a ripple effect. As those professionals gain confidence and move into leadership roles, they become mentors themselves, helping others navigate their careers. It is through these connections and shared experiences that the profession continues to grow and evolve.

“We have a duty to help the next generation be successful,” he said. “Coaching them on the technical side and helping them to build their business acumen so that they can navigate uncertain situations. When they bring all of that together they bring clarity to uncertainty. That’s where CPAs excel.”

A skill set that evolves with a changing world

Change is constant. With technology and geopolitical change reshaping business and our economy, Jimi sees continuous learning and adaptability as two of the key benefits of the CPA designation.

“CPAs play a greater role in a time of uncertainty and complexity than ever before,” said Jimi. “Our fundamental knowledge of business and our ability to learn and unlearn and relearn is critical in these times of change.”

“As CPAs, we constantly reinvent ourselves,” he added. “I think the most important step is to be the kind of professional who is always ready to challenge the status quo.”

In a world where the global status quo is constantly shifting beneath our feet, the skills you are constantly honing as a CPA help you to guide businesses through uncertainty.

“Understanding risk and financial consequences. Understanding the role of AI. Understanding the macroeconomic situation,” said Jimi. “CPAs can apply their skills to the changing world we find ourselves in.”

Jimi’s message to future CPAs

Jimi is a passionate champion for the CPA designation and the value it brings to Canadian business.

“Businesses trust CPAs,” he said. “CPAs have the skills that businesses need to navigate today’s challenges and turn them into new opportunities.”

Jimi tells future CPAs to be curious, to connect with people, and to be willing to step out of your comfort zone.

“Get out and talk to people in leadership roles and different industries. Interview people who have the positions that you’re interested in,” he said. “Don’t underestimate those moments or those connections, because the impression you make in those moments can help open doors.”

Ready to Lead Like Jimi Olu-Ayeni?

Jimi Olu-Ayeni’s story shows how the CPA designation creates the opportunity to guide business through uncertainty.