William (Bill) Davidson, FCPA, FCA

As the founding partner of Davidson & Company, Bill is a highly respected and well-known leader in the business community and the accounting profession. In the decades following his launch of the firm in 1984, Bill strategically built Davidson & Company into a leading independent auditing and full-service business. Under his leadership, the firm has grown from having two partners in 1984 to 23 partners and over 150 staff today. Now the largest auditor of public companies in Western Canada, Davidson & Company has more than 500 reporting issuer audit engagements in both traditional industries like mining and oil and gas, and in emerging sectors, including crypto and cannabis.

A staunch supporter of Nexia International, an international affiliation of accounting firms, Bill helped elevate Nexia’s global standing as a top 10 accounting network by expanding its reach, driving growth, and fostering collaboration among CPAs globally. In addition, he served for more than five years as deputy chair of Nexia Canada.

Bill is also a dedicated volunteer within the profession and a respected and influential mentor known for his efforts on behalf of the next generation of accounting leaders. In addition to establishing a scholarship for undergraduate business students at Simon Fraser University who are interested in pursuing the CPA designation, he continues to advocate for accounting students from SFU.

Bill enthusiastically extends his support to non-profit organizations as well, benefiting both individuals and communities. For example, he played a crucial role in the launch of the Bettie Allard YMCA in Coquitlam through his fundraising efforts, which helped the capital campaign committee reach its ambitious goal of $4 million. In addition, he has been an active member of the Rotary Club of Vancouver since 1993, and his service to Rotary, which includes serving as Club president, has garnered him two Paul Harris Fellowship Awards.

“Bill has been a pillar in the community and accounting world for over 40 years, dedicating his life to advancing in ways that have left an indelible mark. His visionary leadership has not only driven innovation but has also inspired countless others to pursue excellence with the same passion and integrity that Bill exemplifies.

“Bill’s dedication to community service, charitable work, and other activities has had a profound impact on the lives of many, embodying the true spirit of service and leadership. His legacy is one of innovation, inspiration, and unwavering commitment to excellence.”

– John F. Gale, President (Retired), St. Thomas More Collegiate