I began my professional career as an auditor with EY in Malaysia in 2014. Back in college, I was generally curious about how reputable corporations work and how they manage real issues in their day-to-day operations.
During several visits to career exhibitions, I learnt that being an auditor would feed this natural curiosity as I’d learn about the operations of various types of organisations.
I still wake up every day excited about what I’ll get to learn
I’ve met many great people during my journey in EY. I’ve been fortunate throughout my career to work with diverse clients and have built many strong business connections along the way, many of whom I now call friends. I’m proud to be an auditor and I still wake up every day excited about what I’ll get to learn.
As a senior manager, my role ranges from managing the engagement metrics of a client portfolio to overseeing the audit execution and team management. I am actively involved in campus engagement activities and I am one of the interview panel members for assurance entry-level staff.
Ensuring that I embed audit quality as my top priority helps me to lead high-performing teams and consistently deliver high-quality initiatives. While providing an exceptional client service is essential, our people come first, as nothing can be achieved without a supportive team.
Audit is a people business, so human capital is a key element for firms. Sourcing and retaining talent have been some of the biggest challenges, especially with global competition for talent. With the recent exchange rate trends and reopening of borders, many professionals are also considering career opportunities overseas.
In recent years, I have observed that audit teams have adapted well to new ways of working through greater use of digital tools. This demonstrates that audit firms in Malaysia are capable of rapidly responding to global developments and are flexible in changing their operating models.
Right from the beginning of my EY journey, I have promoted a transparent and open culture. It allows every team member to reach out to me directly whenever they face difficulties. I initiate open knowledge sharing environments at all levels and engage everyone to share their views, especially the quieter team members. I provide stretched goals to team members, while at the same time affording them the guidance and support they may need.
Audit is a people business, so human capital is a key element for firms
What I enjoy most is the satisfaction of seeing the growth and development of my team. The happiness and satisfaction are doubled when I receive even a simple thank you from a team member, knowing that I have contributed to their career path and created an exceptional EY experience for them.
The proudest achievement in my career is being able to play an active role in maintaining and promoting public confidence in the financial reporting process. Serving as a gatekeeper in producing high quality financial disclosures is always my purpose and passion and I love being able to add value and contribute to these areas.
There are many people who have inspired me, but my parents are my biggest inspiration. As an auditor, additional hours need to be invested due to the steep learning curve. My parents always encouraged me to take on the challenge, knowing it would help me grow and advance. There were times when I doubted myself, but with my parents’ support and seeing how they’ve overcome obstacles in their own careers, I was motivated to follow in their footsteps, which has made me who I am today.
