Karen joined Hellam Varon in 2023 after more than 12 years in both private industry and public accounting. After graduating from college, Karen began her career as an auditor in public accounting in Canada working for two different international firms and obtaining her certification as Chartered Professional Accountant. After nearly 5 years, she transitioned to a provincial Crown corporation where she worked as a senior financial analyst responsible for various aspects of financial reporting and budgeting. A move to the U.S. a few years later gave Karen the opportunity to work for a large semi-conductor company, drafting documents for a successful IPO, setting up a full internal accounting and financial reporting department, as well as operating as the company’s controller.  

Today, as part of Hellam Varon’s tax group, Karen provides comprehensive tax planning and compliance services for individuals, partnerships, closely held businesses, and family trusts. Karen was drawn to the world of accounting and taxation because she appreciated the exposure to a wide array of industries and businesses. She is particularly interested in estate and trust work as she aspires to help families create legacies for future generations and to help them determine their philanthropic goals. 

Outside of work, Karen is active and busy with her family. She enjoys experimenting with new recipes, hiking with the family, and biking. Like many of our Hellam Varon folks, she is a world traveler having been to Europe and many destinations in Asia. Next on her list is to visit Italy. She is also expanding her horizons and learning to play tennis!