Angy Masse always knew she wanted to work in the finance field. Her original plan was to become a Certified General Accountant or a Certified Financial Planner. Completing her studies in Business Administration – Accounting at St. Clair College in Windsor led to being hired by a large professional services firm in its Financial Advisory Services practice.

“At 21, I didn’t really have the life experience to know much about financial struggles or insolvency,” she says. “But I thought, this is a good opportunity, I’ll give it a try.”

Her colleagues played a huge role in her decision to stay. “They were such a close-knit group of people, with so much empathy and compassion; I wanted to be part of that,” Angy says. “Plus they had all stayed in the field for a long time, which made me think I was in the right place.”

In that first year, Angy knew she had found her niche. The team also offered plenty of mentorship and support to learn and grow in her role.

Angy started off with the paperwork, then progressed to counselling as she completed the Insolvency Counsellor and Insolvency Administrator courses. In that and subsequent jobs, she appreciated the chance to learn all the aspects of a file to see how everything fit together. Now, she’s happy in a new role at msi Spergel as BIA Insolvency Counsellor, enjoying the personal aspect of consumer insolvency work.

“The best part of this role is just being able to help someone and give them hope that better days are ahead,” she says. “Clients may never have learned about budgeting, spending habits, setting and achieving financial goals and responsible use of credit, so it’s rewarding to help give them the tools and advice they need to move forward.”

The job can be stressful, no doubt. Clients are going through a difficult time and may be angry, ashamed or emotional. Counsellors need patience, above all. They need to communicate in a way the client understands and meet people where they are, providing the support they need in that moment.

Angy always explains to clients that there is nothing to be embarrassed about. She knows that one unfortunate life event or decision could leave anyone needing professional help. “Our industry is large because there is a need for our services,” she says. “Accountants, doctors, nurses, university professors, business owners, government employees – no one is exempt from financial struggles.”

The insolvency field is a good one to be in, Angy says. She encourages others to pursue a career in it, noting they must be friendly, compassionate, empathetic and willing to continue their education to keep up with changes in the Bankruptcy and Insolvency Act.

Angy now has 24 years of work experience in this industry, and just like those original colleagues, sees herself finishing her career here.