GTA Chapter News

Toronto, ON: As the school year was coming to end in April, 2024, with the assistance of the professorial team, the ACFE-GTA Chapter awarded Chapter Scholarships to three students in the Seneca Polytechnic Fraud Examination and Forensic Accounting Graduate Certificate Program. The scholarship provides each student with access to the ACFE Examination Preparation Package and the CFE Examination, including the course materials, the examination fee, and a year’s membership in the ACFE.

Mark McManus, President & Chief Executive Officer of the ACFE-GTA Chapter said "On behalf of the ACFE-GTA Chapter Board of Directors and the Association of Certified Fraud Examiners, I offer my sincere congratulations to Aastha Raja, Julie Ann Aleta, and Kelechi Gideon Agubata on this significant achievement. We look forward to three new top-notch additions to the ranks of the Certified Fraud Examiners profession."

Left to Right: Julie Ann Aleta (Scholarship Winner), Mark McManus, CFE, (ACFE-GTA Chapter President), Cam McCaw, CFE (Seneca Professor & Program Coordinator), Aastha Raja (Scholarship Winner), Cassene Stephens-Morgan, CFE (Seneca Professor), and Chakshu Verma, CFE (ACFE-GTA Chapter Member, Board of Directors & former Chapter Scholarship Winner). Absent: Kelechi Gideon Agubata.

All three winners have either successfully completed their examinations and have now received their Certified Fraud Examiner (CFE) credential, or are now in the process of writing the examination to obtain their CFE credential.

The Chapter would like to express their sincere thanks to Seneca Polytechnic, The Association of Certified Fraud Examiners (headquartered in Austin, Texas), Professor & Program Coordinator Cameron McCaw, CFE, Professor Casse'ne Stephens, CFE, Sara Potkonjak, (Chair of the  School of Accounting & Financial Services, Seneca Polytechnic), and Joe Broccolo, CFE (Manager, ACFE Chapter Development).

Thanks also go out to the CFEs who assisted in the Seneca class presentation and on the selection committee; namely,  Jordan McManus, CAMS, CFE (former Member of the Chapter Board of Directors), Elodie Goncalves, CFE, (current Member of the Chapter Board of Directors & Director of Membership), and Chakshu Verma, CFE, (current Member of the Chapter Board of Directors and a 2023 Chapter Scholarship Winner).

The Association of Certified Fraud Examiners (ACFE) is the world's largest anti-fraud organization. Together with more than 90,000+ members, the ACFE works to reduce business fraud, and other financial crime worldwide, as well as inspire public confidence in the integrity and objectivity within the profession. By delivering best-in-class training, offering the CFE credential, and fostering a dynamic, global community of anti-fraud professionals, the ACFE is reducing fraud, corruption, and other financial crime worldwide, and assisting the membership in its detection and deterrence.

Serving Central and Southwestern Ontario, including the Greater Toronto Area and the Golden Horseshoe, the GTA Chapter supports the mission of the ACFE by (a) delivering affordable, best-in-class training to Certified Fraud Examiners, (b) fostering a dynamic and interactive local network of anti-fraud professionals, and (c) encouraging the next generation of anti-fraud professionals through outreach programs to local colleges and universities.

Seneca Polytechnic (rebranded inn 2023) opened in 1966 as part of a provincial initiative to establish an Ontario-wide network of colleges of applied arts and technology providing career-oriented diploma and certificate courses as well as continuing education programs to Ontario communities. The province was responding to the increasing need for sophisticated applied learning as technology continued to change the nature of work and the provincial economy. General education was considered an important element in post-secondary education and breadth courses continue to be a part of every program. In 2001, the colleges were granted the ability to offer baccalaureate degrees. Seneca is one of five Institute of Technology and Advanced Learning that can offer up to 15 per cent of its program activity at the degree level.

The Fraud Examination and Forensic Accounting Graduate Certificate program recognizes the growth in financial crime and budgetary pressures on law enforcement . As such, many organizations,  large and small, rely on their internal resources to prevent, detect, investigate, and quantify fraud. This eight-month graduate certificate program provides students with in-depth knowledge and computer techniques to investigate fraud, financial disputes, and other irregularities in the business world. Upon graduation from this program, students are strongly encouraged to pursue the Certified Fraud Examiner (CFE) designation through the ACFE.

Toronto, Ontario: On September 11th and 12th, 2024, Kingston Police is proud to host their first Human Trafficking Conference, "Beyond Boundaries – A Groundbreaking Human Trafficking Conference." The conference will take place at the Market Square Hotel in downtown Kingston, and is expected to host 250 attendees.

The ACFE-GTA Chapter announced today that they will be represented at this conference as an attendee, "to show support for the initiative and continue to expand our knowledge of this important area of criminal activity."

The Kingston Police press release says, "Human trafficking is one of the fastest-growing criminal activities globally, affecting the most vulnerable in our society, especially youth. It exploits individuals for profit, perpetuates gender inequality, and poses a significant threat to global security. Criminal groups are continually adapting by leveraging new technologies to enhance their illicit gains.

"The purpose of this conference is to serve as an educational platform, fostering collaboration between police and community agencies to combat human trafficking. The event will focus on identifying victims, providing specialized support, preventing further victimization, and building partnerships within communities and the justice system.

"We are honored to announce that Timea E. Nagy, a best-selling author, UN Advisor, Human Rights Activist, and a survivor of sex trafficking, will facilitate the conference. Timea's experience and insights will guide discussions and workshops, making her a pivotal part of this event.

"The conference will feature presentations on Digital Sex Trafficking, cyber intelligence, financial intelligence, and best investigative practices. Attendees will gain insights into new trends, victim management methods, and advanced investigative techniques to mitigate and eliminate human trafficking."

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Toronto, Ontario: The Association of Certified Fraud Examiners (ACFE) Greater Toronto Area (GTA) Chapter announced today that two members of the Board of Directors will be speaking at the upcoming ACCA-IMA Toronto Conference on September 28, 2024.

Mark McManus, B. Comm. (Hons.), M. Ed., CTDP, CAMS, CFE, President & Chief Executive Officer, AND Mandy Yousif, BA, CFE, Secretary to the Board of Directors will speak on "Third Party Risk Management." In today’s tech-focused world, it is nearly impossible for a business to avoid using third-party vendors to support various tasks. Outsourcing is a common feature of the 21st-century business environment, and there are many benefits such as reducing costs, focusing on primary goals and obtaining service from experts in relevant fields. Most third-party vendors enjoy sharing in the good reputation and earnings that come from hosting essential companies. Today’s market leaders consider outsourcing as an essential ingredient for staying productive and running an efficient business.

The ACCA and IMA Toronto Chapter 2024 Conference is billed as an engaging and insightful training event designed for finance professionals at all stages of their careers. Whether one is looking to expand their knowledge, stay current with industry trends, or network with peers, this event caters to all interests. Attendees will have the opportunity to learn from industry leaders and gain valuable insights to enhance your professional skills. The conference is designed for and open to financial professionals at all stages of their career.

Click here for more information and registration

Toronto, Ontario: Dorian Dwyer, CAMS, CFE, Chair of the Board of the ACFE-GTA Chapter is pleased to announce the appointment of Chakshu Verma, B. Comm., MBA, CFE to the Chapter Board of Directors effective July 1, 2024.

Supplementing his undergraduate and graduate degrees, in April, 2023, Chakshu graduated with distinction from the Fraud Examination and Forensic Accounting Graduate Program at Seneca Polytechnic in Toronto. In the same month, Chakshu was awarded an ACFE-GTA Chapter Scholarship, which provided him with the opportunity to earn his Certified Fraud Examiner (CFE) credential with all fees paid through the scholarship program. He successfully completed the Certified Fraud Examiner examination process and was awarded his CFE designation in September, 2023.

Chakshu has been volunteering with the ACFE-GTA Chapter for the past year and has demonstrated a keen interest in supporting and furthering the vision of the Chapter. He also brings significant risk management knowledge from his past work experiences prior to immigrating to Canada to continue his studies in 2022. In his day job, Chakshu is currently the marketing director of a real estate brokerage in the GTA.

Mark McManus, CTDP, CAMS, CFE, the ACFE-GTA Chapter President & Chief Executive Officer, and Vice-Chair of the Board, said, "We are fortunate to have Chakshu as a director of the Chapter. While he is the youngest member of the Board, he brings significant educational qualifications and hands-on experience managing the risk of financial crime, including fraud and corruption. Congratulations to Chakshu on his appointment."

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Toronto, Ontario: The ACFE-GTA Chapter Board of Directors is pleased to announce that, effective July 1, 2024, Mandy Yousif, BA (Hons), CFE has been appointed Secretary to the Board of Directors. Mandy has been on the ACFE-GTA Board of Directors for the past year, and as Corporate Secretary, now becomes an officer of the Chapter. All directors (and officers) serve a 4 year term, with the current term expiring June 20, 2027. There is no limit on the number of terms a director may serve.

Mandy is a Certified Fraud Examiner, and holds a Bachelor of Arts (Honours with Distinction) in Criminology and Sociology from the University of Western Ontario, as well as a Diploma (with High Honours) in Public & Private Investigation from Sheridan College. Mandy has authored articles for the Association of Certified Fraud Examiners' (ACFE) Fraud Magazine, and was a speaker at the 2023 Canadian Fraud Conference which was held in Montreal.

Mandy is the Chief Operating Officer of Specialty Risk & Intelligence Services Inc. (SRIS), a global risk management and investigation firm domiciled in Toronto, Canada. Mandy oversees all operational aspects of the company, having had several years experience conducting investigation, compliance and risk assessment consultations.

The Association of Certified Fraud Examiners (ACFE) is the world's largest anti-fraud organization. Together with more than 90,000 members, the ACFE works to reduce business fraud, and other financial crime worldwide as well as inspire public confidence in the integrity and objectivity within the profession. By delivering best-in-class training, offering the CFE credential, and fostering a dynamic, global community of anti-fraud professionals, the ACFE is reducing fraud, corruption, and other financial crime worldwide, and assisting the membership in its detection and deterrence. 

Serving Central and Southwestern Ontario, including the Greater Toronto Area and the Golden Horseshoe, the ACFE-GTA Chapter supports the mission of the ACFE by:

• Delivering affordable, best-in-class, and Canadian-focused training which is available to Certified Fraud Examiners in Canada and worldwide;
  
• Fostering a dynamic and interactive local network of anti-fraud professionals; and
• Encouraging the next generation of anti-fraud professionals through outreach and scholarship programs to local colleges and universities.

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Toronto, Ontario: After thirty years as a Certified Fraud Examiner, and a career preventing, detecting, and investigating fraud and other financial crimes, Andrew H Kautz, CFE is retiring from the ACFE-GTA Chapter Board of Directors effective June 30, 2024.

Andrew had been heavily involved in the now defunct Southwestern Ontario Chapter of the Association of Certified Fraud Examiners (ACFE) since its inception. The Southwestern Ontario Chapter amalgamated with the Greater Toronto Area (GTA) Chapter upon dissolution. In 2017, Andrew joined the Board of the ACFE-GTA Chapter as (Corporate) Secretary to the Board, a position he has held ever since.

Andrew has served the anti-fraud profession with distinction and with a strong sense of commitment. He was recently awarded his 30 Year Pin as a Certified Fraud Examiner. He was on the ACFE Faculty at the World Headquarters of the ACFE in Austin, Texas, and has been an often sought-after speaker for training events.

The ACFE-GTA Board of Directors takes this opportunity to thank Andrew for his service to the community and our Chapter, and wish him the very best in his retirement.

The Association of Certified Fraud Examiners (ACFE) is the world's largest anti-fraud organization. Together with more than 90,000 members, the ACFE works to reduce business fraud, and other financial crime worldwide as well as inspire public confidence in the integrity and objectivity within the profession. By delivering best-in-class training, offering the CFE credential, and fostering a dynamic, global community of anti-fraud professionals, the ACFE is reducing fraud, corruption, and other financial crime worldwide, and assisting the membership in its detection and deterrence. 

Serving Central and Southwestern Ontario, including the Greater Toronto Area and the Golden Horseshoe, the GTA Chapter supports the mission of the ACFE by:

• Delivering affordable, best-in-class training to Certified Fraud Examiners,
• Fostering a dynamic and interactive local network of anti-fraud professionals, and
• Encouraging the next generation of anti-fraud professionals through outreach programs to local colleges and universities.

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Toronto, Ontario: On May 16, 2024, the ACFE-GTA Chapter co-sponsored the Canadian Regional Meeting of the Council of International Investigators at One King St W, Toronto, Ontario.

Hosts for the day were the the CII Canadian Regional Director, Keith Elliott, President & Chief Executive Officer of Reed Research Ltd., an international investigations and intelligence firm and Jeremy King of King International Advisory Group, a leading Canadian-based fraud investigation agency.

Mark McManus, President & Chief Executive Officer attended on behalf of the ACFE-GTA Chapter.

Although the Council of International Investigators is a comparatively young organization, having been formed in 1955, it has achieved a position within the private investigation business, and before the public, as the spokesperson for ethical private investigators throughout the world. Certified membership of the Council of International Investigators confers a level of distinction and prestige to those members who meet the strict criteria set for this type of member. The adoption of, and strict adherence to, the Council of International Investigators’ Code of Ethics has met with universal approval by public law enforcement agencies, legislatures, and public officials.

The Association of Certified Fraud Examiners (ACFE) is the world's largest anti-fraud organization. Together with more than 95,000 members in over 130 countries, the ACFE works to reduce business fraud, and other financial crime worldwide as well as inspire public confidence in the integrity and objectivity within the profession. By delivering best-in-class training, offering the CFE credential, and fostering a dynamic, global community of anti-fraud professionals, the ACFE is reducing fraud, corruption, and other financial crime worldwide, and assisting the membership in its detection and deterrence.

Serving Central and Southwestern Ontario, including the Greater Toronto Area and the Golden Horseshoe, the GTA Chapter supports the mission of the ACFE by:

• Delivering affordable, best-in-class training to Certified Fraud Examiners,
• Fostering a dynamic and interactive local network of anti-fraud professionals, and
• Encouraging the next generation of anti-fraud professionals through outreach programs and scholarship awards to local colleges and universities.

Toronto, Ontario: On May 15, 2024, the ACFE-GTA Chapter co-sponsored "Empowering Young Professionals Panel Discussions & Networking Evening" with the local chapter of the Chartered Business Valuators (CBV) Institute.

Attending on behalf of the GTA Chapter were Stephanie Greenwald, CFE, CBV Director, Mark McManus, CTDP, CAMS, CFE, Chapter President & Chief Executive Officer, and Kyle Kanstein, CFE, Executive Vice-President & Chief Compliance Officer. A former Chapter director, Tim Zimmerman, CBV, CFE was also in attendance.

The event was jointly held in collaboration with the Toronto Lawyers Association, the CBV Institute and the ACFE-GTA Chapter and was hosted by RSM Canada LLP. Thanks to our panelists, Heyla Vettyvel, Associate, Gowling WLG, and Nyla Roopnarinesingh, CBV, Senior Manager, Crowe Soberman, as well as to Dawn Ellis, CBV for organizing the event. Kyle and Mark presented on the topic of occupational fraud, detection, and the benefits of having a CFE Credential to an engaged group.

L to R: Kyle Kanstein, Dawn Ellis, Mark McManus

CBV Institute upholds the highest standards of business valuation practice CBVs are indispensable in the world of business and finance. When parties need to determine the value of their business, they turn to a Chartered Business Valuators for answers. CBVs combine technical knowledge with real-life practical experience to put forward globally respected valuations of a business, a business interest, and.or intangible assets. CBVs are employed in a wide variety of businesses, including valuation firms, venture capital/private equity/investment firms, accounting firms, and financial institutions.

The Association of Certified Fraud Examiners (ACFE) is the world's largest anti-fraud organization. Together with more than 95,000 members in over 130 countries, the ACFE works to reduce business fraud, and other financial crime worldwide as well as inspire public confidence in the integrity and objectivity within the profession. By delivering best-in-class training, offering the CFE credential, and fostering a dynamic, global community of anti-fraud professionals, the ACFE is reducing fraud, corruption, and other financial crime worldwide, and assisting the membership in its detection and deterrence.

Serving Central and Southwestern Ontario, including the Greater Toronto Area and the Golden Horseshoe, the ACFE-GTA Chapter supports the mission of the ACFE by:

• Delivering affordable, best-in-class training to Certified Fraud Examiners,
• Fostering a dynamic and interactive local network of anti-fraud professionals, and
• Encouraging the next generation of anti-fraud professionals through outreach programs and scholarship awards to local colleges and universities.

Toronto, Ontario: The ACFE-GTA Chapter announces the Annual General Meeting for the Fiscal Year ending December 31, 2023, AND a Special Members Meeting to pass an Extraordinary Resolution (as required under the ONCA (2010) will be held on Thursday June 13, 2024 at the Amsterdam Barrel House, 87 Laird Dr, Toronto, Ontario at 6:30 pm and 6:45 pm respectively.

Only Paid-Up Chapter Members in Good Standing (which does not include Chapter Student Affiliates or Chapter Affiliates) may vote at the Annual General Meeting and at the Special Members Meeting. Members may find the relevant documents here.

As part of the AGM, the President and Chief Executive Officer will provide a brief overview of the Chapter's work during 2023 and introduce the winners of the 3 Scholarships awarded by the Chapter to students in Seneca Polytechnics' Fraud Examination & Forensic Accounting post-graduate Certificate program. The scholarships allows the winners to obtain the CFE Exam Preparation Silver Package to the write the CFE Exam at no charge. The value of each scholarship awarded approximates US$999.00. Last year, the Chapter awarded five scholarships to Seneca students.

The two meetings will be held in conjunction with the Chapter's Annual In-Person (only) Networking Event. All Certified Fraud Examiners in the GTA, Central and Southwestern Ontario, as well as all our colleagues involved in financial crime and fraud prevention, detection, deterrence, examination or investigation are welcome to attend the Networking event. You may register for the Networking Event here.

Toronto, Ontario: On April 17, 2024, Mark McManus, President & Chief Executive Officer and Penny Hill, Director, Chapter Liaison, represented the GTA Chapter at the ACCA North America Member Recognition Ceremony at The Carlu, in downtown Toronto. As the ACCA is a sponsor of GTA Chapter events, Penny and Mark were delighted to have been invited by Jillian Couse, Head of ACCA North America, and were pleased to attend.

L to R: Mark McManus, Jillian Couse, Penny Hill

Mark & Penny speaking with Paul K. Wing, a member recognized at the ceremony for his long and distinguished service to the ACCA.