Svitlana Butenko-Mezentseva: A Journey of Excellence in Accounting
In the world of accounting, precision, dependability, and dedication are critical traits, and Svitlana Butenko-Mezentseva exemplifies all of them. As a key member of the Lotus Terminals accounting team, Svitlana’s journey reflects not only her commitment to excellence but also her resilience in navigating diverse career landscapes across multiple countries. Her journey is one of personal growth, professional adaptation, and a dedication to helping others, both within her professional circle and through her volunteer work.
A Look Back: Svitlana's Early Years and Influences
Svitlana’s career journey begins far from Canada, in the town of Lugansk, located in Eastern Ukraine. Born into a family where finances were a part of daily conversation, Svitlana’s early life was shaped by her mother, who worked in the government’s tax inspection sector. Growing up as an only child, Svitlana was surrounded by discussions of economics and financial policies, which sparked her interest in the field at a young age.
From as far back as I can remember, I was drawn to math and economics in school,
Svitlana recalls. Watching my mother’s work, I always knew I wanted to pursue a career in the financial sector.
These early influences laid a solid foundation for Svitlana’s future endeavors. Her natural affinity for numbers and her mother’s guidance were instrumental in setting her on a path toward accounting and finance.
A Strong Start in Ukraine: Building the Foundation
Svitlana’s formal education in accounting began after she completed secondary school in Lugansk. She earned an academic scholarship to pursue her studies in Accounting & Audit and Finance at two prestigious institutions in Ukraine: Lugansk National Agrarian University and Volodymyr Dahl East Ukrainian National University. Armed with dual master’s degrees, Svitlana began her career in the tax audit field as a tax auditor in her hometown’s tax office.
I spent five years in tax audit, and it was a very formative time in my career,
she explains. It was my first real professional experience, and it taught me the importance of accuracy, thoroughness, and understanding complex tax regulations.
But for Svitlana, the pursuit of growth meant not staying in one place for too long. When the opportunity to move to Saint Petersburg, Russia, presented itself, she decided to transition from tax auditing to the broader field of accounting.
A New Professional Landscape: Challenges and Successes in Russia
The move to Saint Petersburg marked the next chapter in Svitlana’s career. She began working as a Deputy Chief Accountant at a medical equipment manufacturing plant, where she honed her accounting skills in a highly regulated sector. The transition from audit to accounting wasn’t without its challenges, but it was an essential step in broadening her expertise.
My first five years in Russia were both exciting and challenging. Shifting from tax audit to accounting, especially in the medical manufacturing sector, required me to quickly adapt to new rules, systems, and industry-specific regulations
, Svitlana says.
It was during her time in Russia that Svitlana took on one of her most complex projects: transitioning the company from a paper-based accounting system to a digital-based system using the 1C Accounting platform, an enterprise resource planning (ERP) system. Introducing the ERP system was a huge undertaking, but it streamlined processes significantly and improved accuracy in financial reporting. It was a turning point for me, as it taught me how technology can transform the accounting landscape.
Her experience in Russia culminated in a position at the international consulting firm Schneider Group SPB, where she was exposed to global accounting standards, such as GAAP. Working at Schneider Group SPB expanded my understanding of international tax regulations and accounting practices, which was invaluable as I looked toward new opportunities.
During this time, Svitlana also earned a CPA designation in Russia, further solidifying her qualifications as a skilled accountant.
A Life-Changing Move: From Russia to Canada
Svitlana’s career trajectory took another significant turn when the geopolitical climate in Ukraine changed. As the conflict between Russia and Ukraine escalated, Svitlana, a Ukrainian citizen, felt increasingly uncomfortable working in Russia. When Canada introduced the Canada-Ukraine Authorization for Emergency Travel (CUAET) program, she saw it as an opportunity to start a new chapter in her life.
In 2022, I made the difficult decision to leave Russia and immigrate to Canada. It was a fresh start, both personally and professionally,
Svitlana shares. It wasn’t just about finding a new job; it was about finding a place where I could feel safe and contribute my skills in a meaningful way.
A New Beginning at Lotus Terminals
Before relocating to Canada, Svitlana was still in Saint Petersburg, Russia, when she first connected with Lotus Terminals. During this pivotal moment, Svitlana was interviewed and hired by Prab Bal (CEO of Lotus Terminals), who recognized her potential and extended an offer of employment.
I was thrilled when I was offered the opportunity to join Lotus Terminals as an Accounts Payable Clerk, even before my move to Canada,
Svitlana shares. My previous experience in logistics and my background in accounting made it clear that this would be a great place to apply my skills.
Since joining Lotus Terminals, Svitlana has quickly become a vital part of the accounting team. Her key responsibilities include managing accounts payable, processing invoices, scheduling payments, and overseeing vendor management. I’m also involved in accounts receivable and handle various reconciliations, compliance checks, and transaction recordings,
she explains.
Her attention to detail and efficiency have helped streamline the company’s accounting processes, contributing to the overall success of the company. Ensuring that cash flow is well-managed and maintaining strong relationships with vendors are key aspects of my role. I’m proud to be part of a team that plays such an important role in the company’s operations.
Overcoming Challenges and Staying Motivated
Like many immigrants, Svitlana faced her fair share of challenges in transitioning to a new country and professional environment. One of her biggest hurdles has been adapting to Canadian tax regulations and accounting standards. Coming from a background in Ukrainian and Russian accounting systems, learning the Canadian system has been challenging but also rewarding,
she notes.
To stay motivated, Svitlana sets daily goals and focuses on continuous learning. I’m always striving to improve my skills and deepen my understanding of Canadian accounting standards. Currently, I’m working toward earning my Canadian CPA designation, as my Russian CPA is not recognized here.
Her personal motivation extends beyond her professional development. Svitlana has also been actively involved in her community, volunteering at tax clinics to assist low-income individuals and new immigrants in filing their taxes. Volunteering gives me a chance to help others while also learning more about the Canadian tax system. Last year, I volunteered with both the Universities Canada West and Richmond Multicultural Community Services, where I helped new immigrants, including fellow Ukrainians, navigate the complexities of the Canadian tax system.
Looking Ahead: Future Goals and Contributions to Lotus
Looking toward the future, Svitlana is focused on both professional growth and personal aspirations. My professional goal is to continue my education, earn my CPA designation in Canada, and further enhance my expertise in accounting and finance. I also want to continue volunteering to give back to the community.
At Lotus Terminals, Svitlana is eager to continue contributing to the company’s success by strengthening relationships with customers and vendors and sharing her knowledge with her colleagues. I believe that fostering strong relationships and continuously improving our processes can lead to even greater success for Lotus. I’m excited to be part of that journey.
Conclusion
Svitlana Butenko-Mezentseva’s career journey is a testament to her resilience, adaptability, and commitment to excellence. From her early days in Ukraine, where she developed a passion for accounting, to her current role at Lotus Terminals, she has consistently demonstrated her ability to overcome challenges and make meaningful contributions. As she continues to grow both personally and professionally, Svitlana’s dedication to her craft and her community remains an inspiration to all who work with her.
