Summary
Stepping out of university and into the accounting profession? Wondering how to land that first role, or how to juggle a full-time job with your CPA studies?? Wondering how to move from spreadsheets and reconciliations to influencing business decisions?
Join CPA Australia ACT’s Emerging Leaders Network for an honest and practical panel discussion designed specifically for students, new graduates, and early-career ASAs navigating the critical first steps of their accounting journey.
Our panel will dive into:
- Navigating the Job Market – practical tips for standing out in job applications and positioning yourself for the best graduate and early-career opportunities.
- Balancing Work, Study & Life – practical strategies for managing full-time work alongside CPA studies, staying motivated during busy periods, and maintaining your wellbeing during exam season.
- Career Growth Beyond the Numbers – practical ways early-career accountants can stand out and begin to influence everyday business outcomes.
Bring your burning questions, get actionable advice, and stick around to expand your network with fellow emerging professionals and established leaders in the ACT accounting community.
Learning outcomes:
- Navigate the transition from student to a professional accounting role.
- Apply effective CPA exam preparation and study techniques.
- Describe career pathways and lessons shared by CPA-qualified professionals.
- Develop professional connections within the ACT accounting community.
Event Schedule:
5:30 PM: Registration
5:50 PM: Welcome & Sponsors address
6:00 - 7:00 PM: Panel discussion
7:00 PM: Speed mentoring & networking with drinks and food
8:00 PM: Event close
Our sponsor:
AJM RECRUITMENT & ADVISORY PTY LTD
Panelists
Yifei Tian
Financial Accountant, Australian National University
Yifei is currently a Financial Accountant at the Australian National University (ANU), bringing over four years of experience in corporate finance and financial reporting. Having worked across diverse areas of the finance function, he has developed a well-rounded understanding of the end-to-end reporting lifecycle. As Deputy Chair of the CPA Emerging Leaders Network (ELN), Yifei is passionate about supporting the ASA community and sharing insights from his own recent journey of balancing full-time work while successfully completing the CPA Program.
Todd Smith CPA
Partner, Panorama Accounting & Advisory
Todd Smith is a Partner at Panorama Accounting & Advisory, a Canberra-based firm with offices in Canberra and Tumut, supporting clients across a diverse range of industries. Beginning his accounting journey in Wagga Wagga, Todd entered the workforce after just one year of full-time study while continuing his qualifications part-time, giving him firsthand experience balancing work and study. Since moving to Canberra in 2015, he became a Partner in 2018 and now advises business owners across industries including construction, primary production, transport, and professional services, with expertise in business advisory, tax strategy, structuring, asset protection, and growth planning. As a member of the CPA Australia ACT Public Practice Committee, Todd is passionate about championing the rewarding career opportunities within public practice accounting.
Clara Wu CPA
Manager, KPMG
Clara Wu is a Manager in KPMG’s Finance Risk Advisory team in Canberra, with eight years of experience across financial advisory, consulting, and project management. She works with public sector clients to strengthen financial reporting, improve decision-making, and drive efficient, compliant financial processes. Clara is also an active member of the CPA Australia ACT Emerging Leaders Network Committee, supporting emerging professionals and member engagement. An Australian National University graduate with a double degree in Finance and Accounting, she is passionate about mentoring students and is actively involved in ANU career initiatives, including the Momentum Program.
Moderator
Sally So FCPA
Chief Financial Officer, Australian Electoral Commission
Sally is the Chief Financial Officer at the Australian Electoral Commission, where she leads financial strategy, investments, strategic sourcing and budgeting across a complex, high-accountability environment. Sally brings extensive experience across central and portfolio agencies, with a strong focus on financial management, program delivery, and risk oversight to achieve sustainable, high performing outcomes. Sally also chairs the ACT Public Sector Committee.
Fees
Below is all of the pricing information for the event.
AUD pricing is inclusive of GST.
Member fee: $10.00 AUD
Non-Member fee: $20.00 AUD
Venue / Location