Ranking as the worlds 9th largest economy, Canada represents a powerhouse of opportunities for finance professionals. The finance and insurance sectors are the country’s largest contributors to GDP with the focus being on banking, insurance, and asset management. The stable political environment, excellent educational opportunities, world class infrastructure and unspoilt natural beauty are just a few reasons Canada ranks as one of the top destinations for professionals looking to broaden their skills, enhance their earnings and better their standard of living.
The Forbes Global 2000 list notes that in 2021, 56 of the world largest listed companies originated in Canada. 7 Of the top 10 were in the financial services sector.
Sought after finance qualifications in Canada include:
- Chartered Accountants (CA),
- Chartered professional accountants (CPA),
- Certified Management accountants (CMA),
- Chartered Financial Analysts (CFA) and
- Certified Internal Auditors (CIA).
Toronto
Situated just north of New York with easy access to the dynamic east coast economy, Toronto is vibrant and sophisticated. Ranked as the second largest financial sector on the continent after New York, the diverse, cosmopolitan community is welcoming to students and new graduates as well as experienced professionals.
As the financial hub of Canada, well qualified finance professionals are constantly in demand in Toronto. Leading finance institutions in Toronto include CIBC, Scotiabank, BMO Financial Group, TD Bank and RBC. Amazon, IBM, Accenture, Apple, Oracle, and Google are just a few of the largest employers in Toronto offering excellent career opportunities.
Vancouver
In the west lies Vancouver, a glittering modern and dynamic city with endless opportunities. Vancouver boast one of the largest finance sectors in North America with easy access to Seattle and the US markets. Ranked as the 8th largest financial sector on North America and 17th largest globally in 2021, Vancouver offers a unique combination of excellent career prospects and a world class lifestyle in a pristine natural environment with excellent social, medical, and educational opportunities.
Calgary and Montreal
Other Cities of interest for finance professionals in Canada include Calgary and Montreal. Calgary is situated to the east of Vancouver across the rocky mountain and boasts a robust oil and gas industry. Ranked as the 10th largest financial footprint in North America, Calgary offers an outdoor lifestyle with excellent career prospects in an affordable world class city. Montreal, in the French speaking province of Quebec offers a rich and creative environment for French speaking professionals. Quebec has a diverse array of economic sectors. Current job opportunities include clean technology and innovation, finance and medical research and innovation.
