I started my professional career at Cannon & Company, a CPA firm in the US. After working there for three years I moved to Pakistan. I then worked at Ernst & Young for a year to learn about the local economic sectors, accounting and tax laws. However, for the last nine years I have been associated with a variety of global advisory firms and am now with Adam Smith International (ASI).
I‘ve worked with advisory firms who have delivered social and economic impact in some of the most challenging parts of the world. For example, ASI’s programmes in Pakistan are supporting provincial governments to strengthen their legal, education and economic sectors. I feel I am playing my part in a global movement that uses business as a force for good.
If I could change one law here, I would create a national platform for sales tax collection in Pakistan. Currently, all provinces have different taxation principles and rates, which isn’t improving the country’s ‘ease of doing business’ ranking. This would lead to greater revenue generation, a critical priority for Pakistan.
Becoming a member of ASI’s staff council took me out of my comfort zone. This is a body of five elected members that facilitates informed decision-making by the executive team and board of directors, and holds them accountable for those decisions. It meant moving from numbers to becoming a bridge between the executive team and staff working in six different continents.
I enjoy the daily challenges my job brings. I am constantly ensuring we are meeting the expectations of our client, the Department for International Development, and the countries in which we operate.
As the head of risk I wanted to identify the top-line threats affecting the company as Covid-19 emerged. Once the risk mitigation plan was in place, I was concerned about my own ability to deliver from home. However, the pandemic has introduced us to a new style of working, showing that good results can be delivered remotely.
My mother was instrumental in shaping my career. She is my teacher and my career counsellor as well. She’s the reason why I’m an accountant today. I owe my success to my parents.
I love food, so if I wasn’t an accountant I’d have tried my luck at running a successful restaurant. However, I have to admit that I am a horrible cook myself.
I love travelling with my wife. Once the Covid-19 travel restrictions are lifted, we are planning a trip to London and Paris. I also enjoy playing cricket.
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