Joe Laferriere

Introduce Yourself:

My name is Joe Laferriere, and I am a 2018 HBA graduate currently residing in Toronto. Following graduation I began my career in Assurance at EY, where I worked towards earning a CPA designation in 2021. After auditing financial service organizations, I transitioned to a consulting role at EY-Parthenon, advising global companies and private equity teams involved in mergers, acquisitions, and value creation. I am a lifelong learner, and I am thrilled to be returning to Ivey to develop new skills and work towards my long-term career aspirations. Beyond my professional career, I enjoy cooking, attending concerts, and exploring the diverse food scene of Toronto.

Why did you decide to return to Ivey to do your MBA?

The MBA program at Ivey would continue to build on the strong foundation I gained during my HBA. The program's style and structure align with my learning preferences and using these skills I have been successful in industry to develop a robust toolkit and network. I am returning to build towards my long-term career aspirations of being a global owner, investor, and operator for organizations. The curriculum, international learning opportunities, and extensive network at Ivey will support this goal. The 8-month duration of the program is also very appealing, as I am eager to apply the knowledge and skills to my career.

What is the most significant or surprising difference you've experienced in your MBA journey from your HBA journey?

The MBA at Ivey has many familiar elements like the campus and teaching style, but the true differentiator is the diverse backgrounds of my classmates. Their real-world experience elevates class discussions with practical insights. Each person is a professional, eager to apply their industry know-how in class. This diversity, coupled with my own work experience, allows better practical application of the concepts learned.