Life in the public sector
Is being a CPA
in the public sector
for you?
Did you know that there are over 500 different federal and provincial ministries and government agencies?[1][2] When you add Quebec’s 1,127 local municipalities to that number,[3] it is clear that this is a sector with huge career prospects! If you yearn to influence society and create a better future, being a CPA in the public sector might be the right path for you!
Three levels of governments
for even more opportunities!
Here is a general overview of the three levels of government, their responsibilities and their specific areas of authority.[4][5]
Federal government
The federal government holds powers in areas that affect the entire Canadian population. It also steps in to handle issues that go beyond the national borders.
Some of its areas of authority:
Census and Statistics
Agriculture, food processing and distribution
Foreign Affairs and International Trade
Air, Maritime and Rail Transportation
Citizenship and Immigration
National Defence
Currency and Banking
Postal Services
Criminal Law
Telecommunication
Provincial/territorial governments
Provincial and territorial governments hold powers in areas that affect their populations and territories more directly.
Some of their areas of authority:
Education
Hospitals and Health Care
Labour (labour, health and safety standards)
Daycare Services
Civil Law
Administration of Civil and Criminal Justice
Municipal administrations
Municipal administrations are responsible for issues that have a direct impact on the daily lives of communities because they exercise their powers over towns and cities.
Some of their areas of authority:
Social and Community Development (e.g. libraries)
Land Use Planning and Development
Waste Management and Water/Sewage Services
Housing and Social Housing
Mass Transit
Security Services (fire departments, police forces and emergency medical attendants)
It is worth mentioning that the federal and provincial governments share certain powers, such as in the areas of immigration, agriculture, transportation, culture and the environment.[6]
In addition to these three levels, there are two other types of entities that are similar to private sector organizations and yet still part of the public sector.
Parapublic organizations
These organizations fall under the responsibility of the government, but enjoy a great deal of independence in managing their affairs. They may be structured similar to private corporations.
Exemples:
Hospital Centres
University Centres
Professional Orders
Crown corporations
These organizations are government-owned, yet structured like private businesses and strive to be profitable and self-funding.
Exemples:
Hydro-Québec
Canadian Broadcasting Corporation
VIA Rail Canada
A challenge
for every CPA!
CPAs in the public sector have opportunities to work on different teams and on a wide range of engagements. Whether they are doing a ministry’s accounting or are involved in projects that touch on current or social issues such as the environment, one thing is certain: The projects they take part in are large and exciting!
Given the wide range of engagements that exist, the challenges can be quite diverse. Plus, you can pursue a career that matches your interests and have a job that reflects your values!
Humans
first
In the public sector, humans come first. Now that you know this, it should come as no surprise that in this sector, you will enjoy attractive working conditions, while contributing to the common good and serving the community. You will have great benefits and job security. Personal and professional development is also encouraged!
This means that you can keep training year-round for your next triathlon! Hurray!
Auditing
in the public sector
Are you interested in obtaining the CPA auditor designation and practicing public accountancy in the public sector? Did you know that there are entities responsible for carrying out financial and performance audits of various government agencies and programs, such as the Auditor General of Québec and the Office of the Auditor General of Canada? Their work ensures greater public transparency and better resource management.
These entities are also responsible for preparing reports on social issues such as affordable housing, reconciliation with indigenous peoples, and cybersecurity. They provide real insight into these situations and improve public services.
The day-to-day
in the public sector
To help you better understand what CPAs in the public sector do in their day-to-day work, here are some examples:
Provincial level
Project and track the costs of a plan to build a new elementary school for 250 children.
Federal level
Contribute to the strategic planning process of a project that will protect the marine ecosystem and oceans.
Municipal level
Participate in subway infrastructure modernization projects by analyzing data on consumer habits and traffic.
Parapublic organizations
Analyze the financial impacts of a new health system program on a hospital centre.
Crown corporations
Review a new large-scale wind power project’s compliance with regulations and laws in view of obtaining funding and grants.
If you too want to grow in an environment whose purpose is to serve the community, take the plunge and become a CPA in the public sector!