Another month, another Meet the Team! This time, we’re heading over to the finance department to chat with our Controller, Justin Ambay. He’s sharing insights into his day-to-day responsibilities, how he keeps everything running smoothly behind the scenes, what he enjoys most about working with the team — and maybe even sharing a few surprises along the way.
How long have you been at the agency for?
It’s been about three years — I’m a merger baby.
So, controller – what are you controlling exactly?
Oh my god. All your expenses! I’m the right-hand man to Naomi, our CFO. Which means I handle daily cash management, process payroll to make sure the team gets paid, manage month-end book closings, and work with auditors at the year-end, amongst other things.
Follow up: We all know you and Naomi are a dynamic duo. Can you tell us a bit about that?
We sit close to each other, and Naomi’s door is always open, so we get to communicate all the time. This makes work easier, but also, she’s just a great manager and mentor. I couldn’t ask for anyone else really. We have a great relationship both outside and inside of work.
What was the worst expense report you’ve ever processed?
[Whispers].... maybe alcohol replenishments for the office.
Editor's note: We cannot confirm nor deny if we took part in this.
We know you love reality TV. What's your favourite?
Right now, it would have to be Below Deck.
Or actually! No! It is 100% The Real Housewives of Salt Lake City.
If there was a soundtrack to your workday, what would be the opening track?
“Rumour Has It” by Adele.
We have proclaimed you “The Wedding King of Show and Tell”. Tell us where that name comes from and what The Wedding Suite is?
It’s my side hustle (because you know, accounting) that I started at the beginning of the year. We rent out wedding décor pieces to help other couples bring their dream weddings to life.
Business has been booming: Follow us at @theweddingsuitemb on Instagram!
You work near the kitchen — what’s the hot gossip?
Oh, I can't say that! I hear all the gossip, and it’s fantastic.
But for real, I love it — everyone comes to me when they’re waiting for coffee, and we get to chat. It's so nice.
You love to travel — where are you going on your next adventures, and what brings you there?
- Norway: My partner and I have been to two other Scandinavian countries, and we wanted to do another.
- Portugal: Naomi influenced me for this one! She had an amazing experience, and I wanted the same.
- Vegas: We are going for a close friend’s wedding.
- Japan: We’re tagging along with a friend’s trip.
Accounting has a lot of misconceptions — what do you want people to know about the field?
We don’t just do taxes. There’s a lot more analytical and strategic work involved. The day-to-day accounting work that we do goes into our business strategic decisions.
Also — I deal with people too!
Be honest — what department is the worst at timesheets?
….. Strategic Marketing.
But — to be fair, everyone has been doing a really good job lately!
Editor's Note: I am in the strategic marketing department….
What advice would you give to someone considering a career in Accounting?
Accounting wasn’t my first choice. But I heard that Asper School of Business had a direct entry program, so I applied — and never looked back!
Go for it and try it! See what you think. You learn so much by just diving in.
You have a dog, can you introduce us?
His name is Jax, and he turns four in August. He sheds A LOT. He’s a Husky-German Shepherd mix and is the calmest, sleepiest dog.
He also loves Andrew Baulin from the Accounts team.
Editor's note: This is the second time Andrew has been a dog’s favourite in our Meet the Team series.
If you could swap roles with someone on the team for a day, who would it be and why?
You know what? Audra. Her role in PR/Strategy sounds really cool and interesting.
What would your coworkers be surprised to learn about you?
I’m an open book, so I feel like everyone knows me already. I can come across as quiet, but that’s not the real story.
If I had to pick something — it’s my first name has an “e” at the end. I just don’t use it.
Winnipeg restaurant recommendations?
I like Alena a lot — I went 3 times in one month!
Little Viet is great for bubble tea.
What advice would you give to someone new at the agency?
Don’t be afraid to ask questions. I know this is a generic, but it’s the best way to learn! Everyone at the agency is super helpful.
And that is all from our amazing Controller Justin! Stay tuned for next month’s Meet the Team.