Stanley Barnaby plays an integral role at the Joint Economic Development Initiative (JEDI) as the Finance and Operations Manager for the last three years. In this role, he is responsible for ensuring that all financial operations run smoothly. We recently had the chance to sit and chat with Stanley to discuss his aspirations, hobbies, and to really get to know him.
Tell me a little about your background
I’m from the Listuguj Mi’gmaq First Nation. I went to the University of New Brunswick (UNB) here in Fredericton for my Bachelors in Business with a concentration in accounting. From there, I received my Technological Aboriginal Economic Developer (TAED) certification through Cando, and I also have my First Nation Business Administration certificate from UNB through the Mi’kmaq-Maliseet Institute (MMI). In terms of how I ended up here at JEDI, I had heard from a friend that was in one of my accounting classes that there was an internship position available so I decided to apply.
What are your goals in your current position?
To continue to do the best job possible in holding this organization accountable to all funders and partners and to make sure that our organization can operate financially without running into any funding hurdles. Overall, my goal is to keep our operations running smoothly.
What sparked your interest in Business and Accounting?
My first job was working at a seafood restaurant. I worked there for two years in high school and I really wanted to get into restaurant management so that’s why I pursued a degree in business. The reason I got into accounting is because I was enrolled in the Job Readiness Program offered through the Listuguj Migmaq Development Center in Listuguj. I had a job placement at the Migmawei Mawiomi Secretariat (MMS) working in the Finance Department and that’s where I found out that I enjoyed doing accounting, from there it came naturally. I was also able to work at the MMS during the summers while I was in University.
What are some things you like to do in your spare time?
I like to play sports like softball, hockey, golf, and overall just staying active.
What was one of the biggest challenges you faced while working at JEDI?
One of the biggest challenges was getting up the nerve to speak at public events such as plenaries, golf tournaments, etc. Another challenge at JEDI was the learning curve that came with working in Finance. Due to the size and the amount of great work that goes on at JEDI; it came with a lot of responsibility. There was a lot of learning relating to various projects, managing budgets, and the various ways of reporting JEDI Financials to our multiple funders that support all the projects.
What’s your favourite thing about working at JEDI?
I enjoy working at JEDI because of the work environment and all of my co-workers. I also whole-heartedly support the vision of the organization. I love the fact that the work I do at JEDI allows me to support the Indigenous people in New Brunswick in any way I can.