Blending passion and profession

Steph Rushton CPA, CA is the definition of multi-faceted. Whether you want to learn about new music from around the world or need some professional accounting advice, Steph is your go-to.

Steph is currently based in Paris—yes, that Paris—working as a Music Supervisor with Seven Seas Music and with independent film producers, all while running her own public practice. As a music supervisor, Steph sources and licenses authentic international music for film and television projects—not exactly what you’d expect of the stereotypical CPA.

Steph Rushton CPA, CA

There are many paths to the CPA designation—some pursue the designation right out of post-secondary while others discover they want to become a CPA later in their careers. Steph’s path was the former: she graduated from the University of Calgary with her Bachelor of Commerce in accounting and pursued her CPA designation shortly after. “I realized that taking this path would be a good foundation to have and be widely applicable, regardless of what direction I took in the future,” explains Steph.

Steph started her professional career as an accountant at EY, where she worked in Calgary and San Francisco while earning her CPA designation. After becoming a manager in the San Francisco office, Steph knew she wanted to pursue other interests and eventually relocate to Europe, so she contacted two music supervisors she admired.

“Both of them were super impressed that I had my CPA,” says Steph. “Even though it’s not directly related to the music industry, I think it spoke to the calibre of my experience, work ethic, and ability to critically think about issues.” Steph was offered an internship and, later, a paid position. Then she relocated to Paris where she is now living her dream of having her own practice and being a freelance music supervisor.

Steph enjoys the flexibility of freelancing, as it allows her to work remotely, choose her clients, and dictate her own schedule. “The freedom and control my designation has given me is incredibly liberating and has allowed me to create the lifestyle I want,” she says.

Steph emphasizes—and proves!—that CPAs can pursue a variety of career paths. While the CPA designation opens many doors, you have to tune in to what makes you happy. Steph leveraged her designation to travel across the world and do what she’s most passionate about. “You can align your CPA designation with what you want in life. You just have to be brave enough to do it.”