John MacNeil

As an assurance partner with over 30 years’ experience conducting complex assurance engagements, I believe that, by providing clients with the support and advice they need to succeed, I’m helping communities across Nova Scotia become stronger and more attractive to new businesses and ventures.

I strive to achieve this overarching goal in a number of ways. In my role as a Family Enterprise Adviser, I consider the multifaceted issues of our family clients—providing strong, clear and engaged advice regarding generational transition. I was also both the National and Nova Scotia leader of our firm’s Aboriginal industry group where I established strong relationships with our First Nations communities.

Outside of work, I am a mentor and sponsor of the CPA Martin Mentorship Program for Indigenous High School Students. The goals of the program are to support Indigenous students through their high school years, help them understand the benefits of pursuing post-secondary education, expose them to the business environment and help them consider potential job opportunities, including careers in business, finance and the accounting profession.

Additionally, I have served as a member of the Study Group, authorized by the Public Sector Accounting Board of the Chartered Professional Accountants of Canada, to make recommendations for financial reporting by First Nations, which addressed several key issues; and I instructed courses offered by the Atlantic School of Chartered Accountancy as well as Cape Breton University.

In my spare time, I enjoy outdoor activities—including running, hiking and skiing—and spending time with my family, appreciating the natural beauty of Cape Breton Island.