Diversity, Equity and Inclusion at MNP: Taking steps forward
MNP is a proudly homegrown Canadian firm. Our commitment to diversity, equity and inclusion (DE&I) spans our entire organization and is woven into our values, culture, and business strategy.
DE&I at MNP is a journey that continues to evolve. What remains true throughout our evolution is our commitment to learning, growing, and building meaningful relationships in the communities where we live and work. To achieve our vision in a more structured manner, MNP has an internal working group comprised of Partners from across the firm which is responsible for advancing and evolving diversity, equity, and inclusion within our firm. The working group reports directly to the firm’s board and executive committee.
Four pillars for progress
Our DE&I toolkit is comprised of four distinct pillars:
Commitment & Awareness
Demonstrating the firm’s commitment to DE&I and developing awareness for our team members is the first step. Training courses through MNPU, grassroots initiatives, observances, and the Diversity@MNP profile series are examples of the actions we’re taking.
Recruitment & Retention
Creating and maintaining a diverse workforce requires a deliberate approach and consistent follow-up. We’ve introduced engagement surveys, inclusion networks, and regional DE&I committees to ensure our people are heard and we continue to make meaningful change.
Compliance
Businesses are being held to higher standards by governments, investors, and their peers. MNP is on the ball, ensuring that we meet or exceed regulations while exploring best practices from reputable industry groups.
Relationships & Strategic Partnerships
Establishing partnerships with organizations that share our goals is an effective way to create progress. We have relationships with groups like the Canadian Council for Aboriginal Business, and more.
Spotlight: National Day for Truth and Reconciliation and Orange Shirt Day
In 2021, September 30 was established as National Day for Truth and Reconciliation to provide an opportunity to honour survivors of residential schools, their families, and communities, and to ensure that public commemoration of the history and legacy of residential schools remains a vital component of the reconciliation process. This date also coincides with Orange Shirt Day — an annual monument for Indigenous peoples to rebuild community and unify their journeys together towards healing and reconciliation.
In support of our commitment to Reconciliation and diversity, equity, and inclusion, we launched our Indigenous Inclusion Network.
We are optimistic MNP's Indigenous Inclusion Network will deepen both existing relationships and our understanding of the challenges and opportunities in the Indigenous Economy. Our network is open to all MNP team members, whether you identify as Indigenous — or as an ally.
Supporting women in business
As part of our commitment to improving gender equity, MNP is championing women in business through two partnerships.
StrikeUP
StrikeUP is Canada’s flagship digital conference convening women entrepreneurs and the women entrepreneurship ecosystem, with a united vision of equity and inclusive economic growth through entrepreneurship. This year’s event took place on March 2, 2023. MNP presented to all participants and hosted viewing parties at a selection of offices across the country.
In addition to the brand alignment that this conference provides, StrikeUP conference allows us to support women in business and creates mentorship opportunities.
The Scotiabank Women Initiative
We are a proud partner of The Scotiabank Women Initiative™, which is a comprehensive program to help advance women-owned and women-led businesses through three Pillars: Access to Capital, Mentorship and Education. SWI aligns with MNP’s brand and creates business development opportunities for the firm. Here are some example of the events SWI hosts:
Prairies:
Succession workshops across Central Alberta (Camrose, Olds, Stettler and Red Deer) — in early March 2023
B.C.:
Vancouver Island Economic Outlook 2023 event — 2 locations (Nanaimo & Victoria) with Jean-Francois Perrault, Chief Economist at Scotiabank.
Eastern Canada:
Exploring opportunities to connect Scotiabank’s Black-owner/entrepreneur audience with key MNP contacts locally to mutually support clients.
With a return to in-person events and networking, MNP’s marketing team is working with Scotiabank to develop small, targeted co-hosted events with participants of the SWI program and MNP clients.
A firmwide effort
DE&I grassroots initiatives in fiscal 2023
DE&I committees across the firm
Total DE&I observances
Learn more
At MNP, we believe value follows diversity, equity, and inclusion. We have seen first hand the tremendous impact divergent backgrounds and beliefs have in enhancing culture, fostering innovation, and growing the bottom line. From our founding more than 60 years ago, our commitment to DE&I has spanned our entire firm and has been woven into our culture and business strategy. Our collective differences are ultimately what make us stronger.