From an early age I felt a strong association with numbers and knew that finance was my calling. However, even after I graduated in finance from Mumbai University I took up roles in administration and HR in Dubai, waiting for my big break.
Eventually, I got the opportunity to work as an executive in the finance department of Omnicom Media Group, one the world's largest media buyers. It brought me one step closer to what would eventually be my dream career in finance.
I draw inspiration from industry leaders for their vision, attitude and will to succeed
In 2012, while working as a finance manager at another digital media company, Clique Communications Group, I decided to enrol to study with ACCA. Enrolling in this course was a life-changing experience for me. It made me stronger and more confident to take on real-world challenges.
My next role was a new departure for me. I managed the revenue cycle function in the region’s first paediatric hospital, Al Jalila Children’s Specialty Hospital in Dubai. With no prior experience in healthcare, I took on the challenge and taught myself the finer nuances of the industry. I scaled up my department by hiring staff and created patient-focused processes.
I enjoyed my new responsibilities. However, a great opportunity came my way to set up the finance department at Adam Vital Healthcare Group in Dubai as the group CFO.
In my current role, I again work as a revenue cycle manager – at the largest government hospital in the UAE. While the challenges I faced were huge, the opportunity to lead change transformation here was too good to pass up. Again, my training at ACCA helped me develop the skills to take up this challenge. What I enjoy the most about my job is that no two days are the same, and that’s what keeps me going.
My recent experience has made me aware of the importance of good healthcare. I believe health insurance should be made mandatory for every citizen, resident and tourist in the UAE.
On the personal front, to go back and study in 2012 seemed like a big challenge, as I was juggling my responsibilities as a wife, mother of two young children and my career. But my family has been a huge pillar of support. My mother has always encouraged me to pursue my dreams, while my children inspire me to succeed each day. I also draw inspiration from industry leaders such as Indian industrialist and philanthropist Ratan Tata, Amazon founder Jeff Bezos and former Pepsico CEO Indra Nooyi among others, for their vision, attitude and their will to succeed.
In my spare time, I enjoy singing and making henna designs. I have also been trained for few years in kathak, a form of Indian classical dance. If I weren’t an accountant, though, I would have loved to be a homemaker, looking after my family. Who says that’s an easy job?
