SME - Key Persons
Job Titles:
- Partner
- Assurance & Advisory Partner
Avneet is an Assurance & Advisory Partner at SME. He has over 10 years of experience providing accounting, assurance and advisory services primarily to mutual and hedge funds, portfolio managers, exempt market dealers, insurance companies and insurance brokers. At SME, Avneet advises clients in all aspects of a company's financial operations and financial reporting requirements including generally accepted as well as statutory accounting principles. Avneet is bi-lingual and has volunteered with various charitable organizations in Quebec and Ontario.
Bilal Yousuf is an Associate at SME focused on bookkeeping and cloud-accounting.
With the Firm since 2017, Bilal is a certified QuickBooks/QuickBooks Online ProAdvisor, and Xero Advisor. He has worked with several clients to transition their accounting information to cloud-based platforms, playing an active role through the entire process including platform selection to implementation and training of staff.
In his efforts to continue his professional development, Bilal regularly conducts research and trainings to further his knowledge on cloud accounting and improve clients' bookkeeping processes.
Bilal grew up in New Jersey and moved to Canada in 2014. He is a dedicated soccer fan who not only follows various international leagues, but also plays for a local amateur adult team.
Job Titles:
- Manager
- Licensed Public Accountant
Darcy is a Senior Associate at the Firm.
He joined the practice in 2000, while working towards his professional designation. Darcy is a Licensed Public Accountant and also holds his US CPA designation.
In the last two decades, Darcy has acquired extensive knowledge about the Firm's service lines and its clientele. He is actively involved in various areas including audits, reviews, compilations, and taxation in both Canada and US.
Prior to pursuing a career in accounting, Darcy graduated in Computer Programming at Brock University, which makes him one of the few CPAs to have a degree outside of a business program. His technological expertise proves to be a unique and valuable asset, enabling him to assist clients in bridging the gap between accounting and IT systems.
Outside of work, Darcy spends most of his time with youth sports, accompanying his two sons as they engage in hockey during the winter and lacrosse during the summer.
Dayse is an Operations Manager at SME.
With the Firm since 2013, Dayse has over 13 years of experience in corporate communications, project management, business processes and operations management. She holds a degree in Public Relations and a post-graduate diploma in Corporate Communications by Seneca College.
Prior to joining SME, Dayse worked in Public Relations agencies in Brazil, servicing multiple international clients in the areas of corporate writing, media relations and event planning.
A life-long learner, Dayse enjoys spending time reading books, watching lectures, and listening to interesting podcasts and audiobooks. She fosters her curiosity and thirst for knowledge by traveling abroad and experiencing the different cultures of each place she visits.
Deborah is a Manager with the Firm.
Since joining the Firm in 1999, Deborah has become a trusted advisor, cultivating expertise in personal and estate tax strategies. Her client portfolio reflects her diverse skills, with a particular emphasis on family-owned farms and agricultural businesses.
Over the years, she has demonstrated a commitment to continuous improvement, participating in various professional development initiatives, including the completion of the CICA in-depth tax course.
Deborah's roots in St. Catharines have played a significant role in shaping her professional and personal identity. Growing up in the area, she discovered her passion for accounting early in life, leading her to a fulfilling career in the field.
Beyond her financial expertise, Deborah has a profound connection to the water. She worked as a lifeguard while in school and grew to become an avid angler and boater. Aside from this, she also has a passion for music and often engages in musical adventures with her daughter.
Job Titles:
- Group Controller and Principal
Emmanuela is the Group Controller and a Principal with SME.
A part of the Firm since 2012, Emmanuela plays a vital role in managing the financial processes and administrative functions within the Firm. She works to provide operational guidance related to internal controls, budget, forecasts as well as financial and strategic planning.
Over the years, Emmanuela has gained an unparalleled understanding of the Firm's business model, growth strategy and reporting methodology. This has led her to a multidisciplinary involvement in overall management, where she provides support to legal matters, professional practice audits, partner reporting and tax planning for the Firm.
A graduate of the University of Guelph and designated as a CPA, CA in 2016, Emmanuela also applies her technical knowledge to assist clients in complex accounting and tax engagements, including corporate restructuring and estate planning.
Emmanuela enjoys exploring different cultures by traveling abroad and experiencing new dishes from all parts of the world.
Ina is an Associate at the Firm.
Ina joined the Firm in 2012 and since then she has been supporting individuals and small to mid-sized businesses in the areas of bookkeeping, tax compliance and post-assessment reviews.
Originally from the Hamilton area, Ina was raised in a German-speaking household and moved to the Niagara Region while attending Brock University. In the early years of her career, she worked for several German subsidiaries in the area and supported various local businesses in the implementation of computerized accounting platforms.
Outside of work, Ina served as a Girl Guide Leader for 25 years, where she had the opportunity to enrich the lives of young girls, while traveling and building long-lasting friendships. In her free time, Ina enjoys traveling, reading, and spending time outdoors, even more so when it includes her young granddaughter.
Ingrid is an Administrative Assistant at the Firm.
She is a seasoned professional, drawing from over 15 years of extensive experience in the Audit/Tax sector, including significant tenure in a Big Four environment. Graduating from Seneca Polytechnic with a degree in Business and Computer Systems, Ingrid brings a unique blend of technical knowledge and administrative expertise to her role.
Originally from Santiago, Chile, Ingrid immigrated to Canada at a young age, embracing her multicultural background and bringing a diverse perspective to her work. Known for her adventurous spirit, she is always eager to embark on exciting experiences.
Beyond her professional responsibilities, Ingrid is a passionate foodie who enjoys discovering new culinary delights with friends. In her leisure time, she finds joy in watching movies, spending quality time with family and friends, and indulging in her love for music and dance.
Khushboo is an Associate with the Firm.
Holding an MBA degree from Brock University, Khushboo specializes in US and Canadian Tax Compliance. Over her years of experience in cross-border taxation, she has refined her skills working with a diverse array of clients.
Beyond her professional achievements, Khushboo cherishes connections with family and friends. During her leisure time, she finds joy in board games and watching movies/series. As an avid food enthusiast, she actively explores top-notch Biryani places to indulge her culinary interests.
Lucas is an Associate at the Firm.
He joined the Firm in 2020, as a graduate from Brock University. He has gained exposure to a variety of accounting areas, including tax compliance in Canada and the US, as well as in financial reporting. Lucas passed his CFE in 2023 and will be receiving his CPA designation shortly. He plans to follow his interest by specializing in taxation as he progresses his career.
Born and raised in St. Catharines, Lucas started working at a young age and learned how to thrive in fast-paced environments. Outside of work, Lucas enjoys playing video games, soccer and martial arts - he is a black-belt in gōjū-ryū, one of the main traditional styles of karate.
Marilyn is an Administrative Assistant at SME.
With a decade of experience in administrative positions, Marilyn provides support to partners and professional staff in the Firm. From responding to client enquiries, to preparing deliverables, she plays an active client service role within the Firm.
Originally from Venezuela, Marilyn grew up in an entrepreneurial environment and worked for many years in her parents' business. Holding a degree in Business Administration, she is currently enrolled in a Tax Certificate program and plans to pursue a career in accounting.
When Marilyn is not in the office, she enjoys spending time with her husband and two children, planning fun activities and outings. As a music enthusiastic, she has also been taking piano lessons to improve her skills.
Job Titles:
- Principal
- Chartered Professional Accountant
Mayank Grover is a Chartered Professional Accountant with over a decade of experience, specializing in navigating CRA audits, appeals, and complex tax matters. Working closely with seasoned tax litigators, he provides seamless representation for clients. He also supports high-net-worth corporate clients by designing organizational charts to streamline operations and collaborates with financial institutions to secure funding for both personal and corporate needs.
Michelle Grossi is a Manager at SME, servicing clients in the areas of accounting, assurance and advisory.
Michelle has over 12 years of public practice experience, assisting individuals, private enterprises, and non-profit organizations with their accounting needs. In this capacity, she not only works with clients in respect to their annual filings and reporting requirements, but also provides support to them as their business needs change.
Michelle grew up in Antigonish, Nova Scotia, and has a passion for the outdoors. In her spare time, she enjoys camping with her family, hiking, and going for runs.
Job Titles:
- Partner
- Partner at SME 's Assurance
Paul is a Partner at SME's Assurance and Advisory practice. With over 35 years of experience in public practice, Paul provides a complete range of services such as consulting, tax and assurance to for-profit and not-for-profit enterprises, as well as individuals. Paul has developed knowledge and expertise in specific areas including personal external controllership and advice to businesses, and wealth management and estate planning services to individuals. Paul has served as an executor for estates and as an advisor to executors.
Radka is an Associate at the Firm.
Having joined in 1992, Radka is involved is multiple service areas, including the preparation of personal and corporate tax returns, compilations, bookkeeping and tax compliance for deceased taxpayers. She holds a Bachelor of Business Administration with a major in Accounting from Brock University.
Originally from the Czech Republic (previously Czechoslovakia), Radka moved to Canada with her parents at a young age. She spent her childhood in a farm, witnessing her grandparents' love for the land and animals. In Canada, she enjoys spending time with her family and friends, taking advantage of the country's nature all year around.
Robin is a Senior Associate at the Firm.
Having joined the firm in 2007, Robin has extensive knowledge with Canadian and U.S personal tax returns in addition to providing accounting and assurance services. With almost two decades of professional experience post her designation, Robin builds strong relationships with all clients she assists, with an ability to effectively communicate and build trust.
Robin had previously worked in her father's practice, who was also a CPA. Outside of the office, Robin enjoys reading fiction novels and spending time with her husband and two sons.
Job Titles:
- Principal
- Chartered Professional Accountant
Sachin Mohan is a Chartered Professional Accountant with over 15 years of professional and business experience. Known for his client-centric approach, Sachin provides tailored services to align with client's specific objectives. His extensive professional background includes accounting, tax planning, compliance, financial reporting and government audits, positioning him as a trusted advisor and a reliable partner in achieving clients' goals.
Taniya Mittal is an Associate at the Firm.
She holds a bachelor's degree in International Accounting from Seneca College and nearly a decade of experience in public accounting, catering to a diverse portfolio of small and mid-sized clients in the Greater Toronto Area.
Taniya earned her CPA designation in 2022 and maintains a steadfast commitment to professional development and excellence in her field.
When she's not at the office, Taniya finds happiness in spending time with her family, making special memories together. She also has a passion for playing card games, which not only highlights her strategic thinking but also reveals her competitive spirit.
Theresa is an Associate at the Firm.
With a decade of experience in public accounting, Theresa is involved in the preparation of review and audit engagements as well as compilations. She graduated from Brock University in 2015, obtained her CPA designation in 2019 and became a Certified Fraud Examiner (CFE) in 2020.
Theresa's witty personality lights up the office. Aside from coming up with the best jokes, some of her other traits include playing the guitar, playing hockey and being a chocoholic.
Vijay Briah is a Manager at SME.
A graduate from the University of Guelph, Vijay joined the Firm in 2017. Since then, he has gained exposure to multiple areas of accounting and has developed a special interest for complex audit engagements.
Vijay obtained his CPA designation in 2020 and is continuously committed to his professional development. More than the technical knowledge, he works collaboratively with clients to provide them a positive experience with the Firm.
Born and raised in Canada, Vijay's proficiency in Punjabi often impresses clients and coworkers alike. He is also year-round sports person - you will find him on the golf course in the summer and skiing down the slopes during winter.
Job Titles:
- Business Advisor
- Managing Director
Vishal Grover is a Business Advisor with 18 years of experience working alongside Small and Mid-sized Enterprises. Building on that background, Vishal leads a multi-disciplinary team that services businesses in areas that include tax planning and compliance, government (CRA) audits, corporate restructuring and estate planning.
In Vishal's capacity as Managing Partner at SME - a multi-partner accounting and advisory firm, he is directly involved in the firm's management activities including compliance, infrastructure, financial reporting, operations, and corporate growth strategy. Vishal's forward-thinking and solution-seeking approach to firm management has enabled him to become an advisor to other CPA firms looking to enhance performance and structure.
Vishal is a registered mentor with CPA Ontario, actively supporting and advising students pursuing their CPA designations.