The Emerging Leader of the Year Award celebrates an outstanding bookkeeper with 3 years or less of experience who has shown remarkable growth and commitment. It recognizes individuals who embody CPB Canada’s values and demonstrate a strong dedication to excellence early in their careers.
Due to the outstanding nominations, two exemplary individuals were selected for the Professional Leader of the Year Award in 2025.
Our 2025 Professional Leaders of the Year
Gabrielle (Arielle) Smith, CPB
Co-Founder, Fix My Books
Arielle Smith is the Co-Founder of Fix My Books and a Certified Professional Bookkeeper recognized for her innovative approach to bookkeeping, mentorship, and industry advocacy. Since immigrating to Canada in 2019, she has built an award-winning firm while mentoring the next generation of bookkeepers and empowering immigrants to start their own businesses. Named CPB Canada’s 2023 New Firm of the Year, Arielle now balances leading her firm with life as a new mom and keeping up with her 150-lb Bernese Mountain Dog.
Arielle was chosen for the Professional Leader of the Year Award because she exemplifies what it means to be a true professional leader in the bookkeeping industry. Known for her exceptional integrity, unwavering dedication to client care, and meticulous commitment to excellence, she consistently goes far beyond expectations. Arielle’s leadership shines through her innovative problem‑solving, her drive to modernize bookkeeping practices through automation and technology, and her advocacy for the next generation of talent.
Even while navigating significant personal challenges, she continued to deliver impeccable work, support her team, and contribute thought‑leadership through articles, media features, and educational content viewed by hundreds of thousands across North America. Her blend of technical mastery, ethical leadership, and profound service to the profession makes Arielle a standout recipient of the Professional Leader of the Year Award.
Nick Davis, CPB
Senior Bookkeeper at Chickadee Nonprofit Solutions Inc.
Nick Davis began his career as a classically trained double bassist, performing with ensembles ranging from the Toronto Symphony to CBC recording projects while supporting the arts and environment sectors through nonprofit administration. After discovering a passion for bookkeeping, he earned his Foundations in Accounting Certificate and CPB designation, bringing his precision and collaborative spirit into the finance side of the nonprofit world. Now a Senior Bookkeeper at Chickadee Nonprofit Solutions, Nick is driven by a deep commitment to empowering charities through clearer financial understanding. Outside of work, he can be found exploring the trails around Hamilton, diving into arthouse films, or spending time with his cat, Scully.
Nick was chosen for the Professional Leader of the Year Award because he brings a remarkable blend of technical depth, steady leadership, and genuine care to every part of his work. As one of Chickadee’s earliest hires, he quickly became a pillar of the team—mentoring new bookkeepers, creating internal learning resources, and hosting bi‑weekly training sessions that have become cornerstones of professional development within the firm. His calm, capable leadership has been especially evident during periods of transition, including stepping in to guide the team during maternity and leave coverage with unwavering professionalism.
Nick’s ability to manage complex client files, lead annual audits with clarity and empathy, and design resources that strengthen the entire organization speaks to his commitment to excellence. His proactive engagement with CPB Canada and dedication to raising the standards of nonprofit bookkeeping make him an outstanding and deeply deserving Professional Leader of the Year.
The 2025 Bookkeeping Excellence Awards are sponsored by:
View all the 2025 Bookkeeping Excellence Award Winners
