A career in auditing offers multiple opportunities to work with a variety of clients but the emergence of technologies is transforming how accounting firms work. This requires a constant evolution, trying new things and overcoming failures as a path to success.
I chose to major in accounting as it is the language of business and I am passionate about understanding the economics behind the financial performance of companies. I dedicated most of my career to auditing, which has brought to me firsthand experiences in the audit of multinationals, local public companies and public enterprises in Singapore, the US and mainland China. The work is challenging and has also given me opportunities to assist companies to go public in Hong Kong SAR and the US.
I am passionate about understanding the economics behind the financial performance of companies
Besides working with accounting teams, I also stay in touch with staff from all levels and departments, from warehouse officers all the way up to boards of directors. I have had opportunities to travel to many cities, countries and regions.
After a decade with Deloitte China, I was admitted to partnership. I am now responsible for service and practice transformation, fostering talent development and expanding the firm’s presence across the region, particularly in the Greater Bay Area (GBA). These days, I focus on setting strategy and advancing our businesses, heading around 5,000 partners and professionals across the region.
With various strategic initiatives in the GBA to foster regional cooperation, in particular cross-boundary financial services and technological developments, talent needs to upskill to develop and penetrate new markets.
Many senior partners for whom I have worked are my role models and a constant source of inspiration and motivation
The emergence of advanced technologies and data analytics tools has transformed our profession and the role of practitioners has evolved. Being tech savvy and innovative will be advantageous for future professionals. It is also vital to equip yourself with a mindset that embraces the changes and challenges arising from rapidly evolving technology.
We have transformed from an accounting firm to an integrated professional services organisation. Audit and assurance services have been our core strength, while we continue to add to our advisory capabilities. Our practitioners have opportunities to collaborate with professionals from different functions to provide services to our clients from a multitude of perspectives.
As we continue to develop new capabilities, we need to build an even more diverse workforce, many of whom will be from the science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) group. Diversity and wellbeing have also become important values in supporting young professionals.
Many senior partners for whom I have worked are my role models and a constant source of inspiration and motivation. I still remember what one told me when I did not perform well in certain engagements or lost a sales pitch: 'If you fail, never give up, because "fail" stands for "first attempt in learning"; and if you get "no" as an answer, remember it stands for "next opportunity"'.
