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In 2005, the AC Group of Independent Accounting Firms began with a vision of service excellence that included a network of regional members; recognizing that collaboration and sharing best practice would elevate their ability to provide that excellence to their own clients. Paul Belliveau and Robert Veinotte, partners with a thriving Chartered Accountant practice in Bridgewater, together with the help of the former director of the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nova Scotia, Robert Caswill, formulated a model for an association that would bring together independently owned and operated accounting firms across Atlantic Canada.
“What I like about the AC Group is that you aren’t just on your own, working in a firm…you’re part of a team across Atlantic Canada…you develop relationships over the course of your career you can rely on!”
—Emily Parlee, Senior Tax Manager, McIsaac Darragh Inc.
In 2025, The AC Group is proud to have grown to include thirteen member firms, and an associated boutique tax firm, with members in all four Atlantic Provinces. They leverage the power of association to facilitate regular conversations among member firms about tax and advisory services, accounting standards, audit and assurance processes, human resources and opportunities for innovation. They keep pace with new technology and focus on continuing education for CPAs, along with their technicians, book-keepers and administrative staff, recognizing that successful firms need supported, well-informed staff at every level. They have a strong support system for CPA students who join their member firms, offering high-level coaching, financial incentives and paid time for study. Just recently, they have launched a Tax Mentorship program to encourage the development of new tax practitioners within their member firms. Their annual conferences for both designated accountants and administrative and technical staff host stellar educational opportunities and the chance to meet members from other firms in person, with a commitment to support local Atlantic Canadian venues and independent businesses in communities where the Conferences are hosted (Baddeck, NS and Dieppe, NB this year).
CEO Angus Bonnyman notes, “It’s exhilarating to see all of the opportunities available with independent accounting firms, for those beginning their professional career, and for those with experience looking to make Atlantic Canada home. Our firms welcome new talent, and foster personal and professional growth, including partnership opportunities. They offer practitioners the ability to broaden their scope, working closely with clients to bolster their success. Those personal business relationships set our independent firms apart. You can build an incredible career here.”
What sets them apart…
- Access to a supportive network of member firms and experienced staff at the Group level
- Annual Scholarship program for University and College Students
- Training opportunities at all levels: designated CPAs, Accounting Technicians, Bookkeepers and Administrative staff all have access to quality professional development
- Annual Conferences held in Atlantic Canada
- Committees sharing best practice across all member firms, including staff at all levels and roles
- Community leaders who support their hometowns and local businesses
- Tax Mentorship Program
- Support for CPA students resulting in a CFE pass rate that exceeds the national average
20 YEARS • 13 MEMBER FIRMS • 22 OFFICES • 350 STAFF
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