When people think of the construction industry, they often picture engineers and skilled tradespeople on a busy job site. However, financial professionals are equally vital in ensuring the success of projects. In the J.D. Irving, Limited Construction & Equipment Division, finance experts play pivotal roles in project success. To shed light on this, we interviewed two of the Division's Chartered Professional Accountants (CPAs) — Sam Springer and Rebecca Dacres — and promising CPA candidate Kathryn Boyle. They addressed some of the most frequently asked questions, offering valuable insights and advice for those considering career paths as finance leads.

What are some real-world examples of financial success stories in construction?

Rebecca Dacres, who recently transitioned to a role at Irving Equipment, remembers a notable project from her previous job involving an acquisition. "I was part of the due diligence procedure. Seeing the process from start to finish was fascinating," she explains. This experience allowed her to understand the intricacies of integrating a new company into an existing business.

How does financial expertise influence significant decisions in construction projects?

Rebecca stresses the significance of collaboration between business and financial experts. "We serve as intermediaries, ensuring that projects are financially viable, evaluating the need for new equipment, and determining if external financing is necessary," she says. This partnership is critical to the success of construction projects.

As a senior leadership team member, Sam incorporates his financial expertise into decision-making. "My involvement ensures that our plans translate into tangible assets and sound business decisions," he explains. His role highlights the importance of financial understanding in operational success.

What essential skills drive success in finance roles in the construction industry?

Sam supports supervisors by managing cost data to ensure accurate billing in the dynamic crane industry. "My responsibility involves confirming the accuracy of all financial variables, ensuring that we receive proper compensation for our work," he explains. His involvement ensures that financial details align with operational accomplishments.

Kathryn's financial models aid teams in comprehending project costs and overcoming financial obstacles. "By dissecting expenses, we offer a clearer understanding of the requirements for each project. This insight is essential for overcoming financial challenges," she explains. Her expertise facilitates improved project planning and execution.

How do finance experts contribute to the sustainability and growth of businesses in construction?

Sam's focus is on reviewing past decisions and planning for future growth. "I collaborate closely with the asset management team to guarantee efficient utilization of our assets and to plan for future capital requirements. This long-term planning is essential for sustaining a business," he elaborates. His strategic approach aligns financial planning with operational objectives.

Kathryn stresses the importance of financial proficiency in project preparation. "It is crucial to analyze and control costs to achieve sustainability. The CPA program has improved my ability to apply knowledge practically," she concludes. Her insights emphasize the critical role of financial analysis in sustainable project management.

How can continuous learning and curiosity shape your success in construction finance?

Rebecca encourages aspiring finance professionals to pursue the CPA designation. According to her, the designation provides access to diverse opportunities beyond traditional roles, such as financial analysis and business integration. Her career path, including roles in financial analysis, planning, and more since joining the JDI team in 2018, shows the varied paths available to CPAs.

Sam views finance as a foundation for a wide range of career paths. He suggests that finance provides a strong base for different roles, whether one remains in traditional positions or moves into leadership. According to him, curiosity and continuous learning are critical factors for success. His progression from a co-op student to a senior role illustrates the potential for growth within the field.

Kathryn advises finance students to keep an open mind. She notes that what people learn in school may only sometimes directly translate to the workplace. She emphasizes engaging with people and experiencing real-world applications to keep the job interesting. Her advice highlights the significance of practical experience in shaping a successful career.

How can you build your career in construction industry finance?

Are you interested in pursuing a career in finance within the construction industry, like Rebecca, Sam, and Kathryn? Their experiences illustrate the important role of finance professionals in the construction sector. Their expertise ensures the financial success of projects and contributes to the overall growth of their companies.

If you're passionate about the crucial role of financial expertise in construction and are keen to join a dynamic team, consider applying for finance positions at J.D. Irving, Limited.

Learn more about our current opportunities and apply online HERE. 

About JDI Construction & Equipment

The Construction & Equipment Division is a key player in the North American construction industry and part of the J.D. Irving, Limited family of companies. The Division comprises six operating units, offering heavy equipment and crane services, civil construction, modular home and commercial building construction, wallboard manufacturing, steel and fabrication services, and more to its customers.