JT Hong, CMA
Controller
AG Hair Cosmetics

MY WORK

Hours worked per week: 40 hours

Years at this position: 3.5 years

What is the best part of your job?
Because AG Hair Cosmetics is a small private company, I have the opportunity to be involved in every aspect of the company from operations, marketing, sales, IT, production, and so forth. I’ve also been able to work with individuals from all management levels at AG – from the CFO, VP of sales, and Marketing Manager - I wouldn’t have had the same access and ability to interact with these individuals if I were working for bigger, publicly traded companies.

What are some of the challenges you’re currently facing at work?
From the strategic planning perspective, the challenge at AG is to find creative ways of competing against industry giants, such as L’Oreal and Procter & Gamble, to gain market share in the highly competitive hair products market. It is harder to compete when you have comparatively limited resources.

How is this position different from other jobs you’ve had?
In this position, I feel I am an important part of the company and have the freedom and opportunity to contribute to the overall growth of the company. I am also given the chance to lead and guide others at AG, compared to previous positions where I was more likely to be focused on technical accounting.

MY EDUCATION

Degree(s) & Institution (s):
Bachelor of Commerce, Majoring in Accounting with Co-op from the University of British Columbia, and a Certified Management Accountant (CMA) designation

Why did you choose to pursue a CMA?
I have always been the type of person that asks WHY all the time, plus routines don’t suit me. The CMA program showed me that it is okay to think freely and creatively, especially on management or strategy concepts, but still gave me the practical accounting skill-set. 

When did you complete your CMA program?
October 2004

LIFESTYLE

Favorite recreational activity:
Golf and hockey

Upcoming vacation plans:
My wife and I are planning a getaway to an exotic beach destination, like Mauritius or Belize, in early 2011.

Community involvement:
I paddle with the Starbucks Wave-runners dragon boat team.

MY FUTURE

In five years, I see myself (both professionally and personally):
In five years, I’d like to be running my own company, hopefully in the real estate industry. Real estate has always intrigued me. Hopefully my experience and accounting background will prepare me for this challenge.