Karyn Golem CPA, CA
Calgary
I am:
- A visionary with a desire to make the world a better place and serve society in ways that are both meaningful and innovative.
- A seasoned senior executive with a demonstrated track record of creating growth opportunities through value improvement and efficiency finding.
- An authentic leader with a focus on establishing strong interpersonal relationships, fostering collaboration, and teamwork within the organization.
- A lifelong learner, striving for continuous improvement.
Relevant experience and professional background:
- ICD.D (2025)
- EMBA (2024)
- CRM (2021)
- CA, CPA (2001)
- Board Member and Audit Committee, Woods Homes (2025)
- Board Member and Treasurer, LivWell by the Brenda Strafford Foundation (2020)
- Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer, The Brenda Strafford Foundation Ltd. (Present)
- Director of Finance, Rocky View School Division (2020)
Candidate statement
My interest in serving on the CPA Alberta board extends to supporting and giving back to a profession that has afforded me a rewarding and valuable career. My time in the public sector has given me particular insight into the value that the profession can provide for these industries through the practical application of reasonable accounting standards.
Instilling public confidence is paramount to the profession, meaning CPA Alberta must continue to empower and embrace the membership to maintain an exemplary level of integrity and ethical practices, especially as they relate to public sector organizations. Investing in recruitment and education for Alberta CPAs would be a priority of mine if elected to the board.
The CPA, CA designation has always been a highly sought after and prestigious profession. As a board member, I would work diligently to ensure this remains the case, by advocating for the continued investment in information technology and analytics, diversification of membership, rigorous standards, and ongoing education requirements for qualified members.
What do you see impacting the CPA profession, and how can CPA Alberta best respond?
Upholding public trust in the profession is paramount, particularly as CPA Alberta continues to invest in the development of high-calibre candidates committed to integrity and ethical standards. The public depends on CPAs to validate and assess financial information, providing the foundation for sound investment decisions and strategic opportunities.
As industries grow increasingly complex and interconnected at provincial, national, and international levels, maintaining this trust is more important than ever. CPA Alberta can respond effectively by refining regulatory frameworks that are both rigorous and adaptable, ensuring they are tailored to the evolving landscape. Furthermore, a steadfast commitment to continuous education and the ethical conduct of Alberta CPAs is essential to sustain the profession’s reputation.
Another significant factor shaping the future of the CPA profession is the rapid advancement of predictive AI. This technology holds the potential to enhance CPAs’ ability to analyze and interpret extensive datasets with unprecedented speed and precision. It is therefore imperative that CPA Alberta articulates a clear vision and allocates resources to support members.
How do your skills and background position you to positively contribute to the CPA Alberta Board and lead the governance of the profession?
My extensive experience in financial leadership equips me with the expertise to oversee organizational financial health, manage risk, and optimize opportunities for sustainable growth. I bring a strategic mindset, a proven ability to foster high-performing teams, and innovative leadership grounded in a robust background within the public sector.
My steadfast commitment to professional development is demonstrated by my ongoing pursuit of advanced education and credentials, most recently through the completion of the ICD.D program.
Additionally, I have accrued valuable governance experience as a board member and treasurer for LivWell by the Brenda Strafford Foundation and Woods Homes, as well as in senior executive roles serving public sector and not-for-profit boards. These roles have provided me with keen insight into effective governance and strategic decision-making, positioning me to make a meaningful contribution to the CPA Alberta Board and to the stewardship of the profession.