As I always enjoyed number crunching I chose to pursue accountancy as a career, starting out with KPMG in Pakistan. My move to Dubai was the turning point in my life, as it was the first time I stepped out of my home country – and my comfort zone. After 11 years, though, the UAE now feels like my second home.
Throughout my career journey, my family has been very supportive. My mother, being my inspiration, always encouraged me to believe that I could stand up to any challenge. I feel that perceptions have a great impact on personality, therefore it is important to be an optimist even when you don't always get the expected outcome.
It is important to be an optimist even when you don't always get the expected outcome
After working in practice for some time, I was keen to see things from a different perspective. Specifically, I wanted to understand how corporate operations are steered, so I moved into industry. Risk management seemed the ideal way to delve into a company and gain understanding of its operations. I am now managing the data analytics function, which supports the commercial team in making strategic decisions.
I’ve had numerous achievements in my career and received various awards, including one for exceptional performance from PwC and top performance from Bayer. These gave me the motivation to stretch myself. I also gained my ACCA Qualification with a distinction in audit and assurance services – an achievement I still cherish.
To be successful in risk management, you must view things from a sceptical position. At the same time, though, you have to be able to build trust with stakeholders so that together you can deliver results. The work requires detailed planning as there are strict deadlines that need to be met.
I'm a firm believer that practice makes perfect. The more exposure you get to various scenarios, the better your critical thinking skills become. However, you can only progress if you grow others as well as yourself. Silo thinking drags you down; it is only as a team that you can achieve your goals.
Silo thinking drags you down; it is only as a team that you can achieve your goals
In recent years, we have witnessed the unprecedented transformation of healthcare systems across the globe. This technological advancement and innovation has affected the post-Covid-19 world. It has tested the resilience of our health ecosystem and our organisation of knowledge, science and technology, as we try to help people live longer, healthier lives.
The pandemic has presented many challenges, especially around digitalisation and distributing medication at a time when international supply chains are severely disrupted. Bayer has launched a regional distribution centre that will facilitate the delivery of more than 3,400 tonnes of pharmaceuticals to the Gulf region annually, optimising its last-mile processes.
Telemedicine has also surged in popularity. Pre-pandemic, it was in its infancy, but it is now widely accepted. Bayer continues to invest in innovative solutions, which ultimately help patients connect smoothly with healthcare professionals.
Autonomy and flexibility are the greatest benefits that come with my job
Autonomy and flexibility are the greatest benefits that come with my job. There is always room to improve and innovate, which makes me excited every day.
If I had law-making powers, I would enact naturalisation legislation in the UAE. It's great place to live and work.
Outside of work, when I have time, I enjoy visiting different countries. I also play tennis and cycle regularly, which keeps me active and mentally relaxed.
