I was always a numbers person. In my final year at high school in Dubai, my accounting teacher noticed my potential and encouraged me to develop my skills further. That must have been the push I required as I then went on to earn a degree in finance and economics and gain my ACCA qualification, which I completed shortly after joining KPMG as an associate. Since then it has been an onwards and upwards journey.
Stepping out of one’s comfort zone is the key to professional growth
Eight years with KPMG brought many interesting assurance and financial advisory assignments my way. While I enjoyed and excelled in my role, I always knew that stepping out of one’s comfort zone was the key to professional growth. In 2012, when BMW Group announced it was setting up a financial services unit in Dubai and offered me a job, I was intrigued. My mentor at KPMG insisted that it would be a great opportunity for my professional development. Today at BMW Group Financial Services Middle East, I work at the intersection of finance and operations and balance end-to-end core finance functions with strategic planning and change management for the Middle East region.
In this role, I thrive on mentoring new team members and find myself appreciating the fresh set of questions they put forward. In fact, their new age mind-set challenges existing processes and encourages the team to revisit its approach to everyday tasks. In my view, my biggest professional achievement is having successfully coached members of my team who have gone on to become highly productive members of the organisation.
Little emphasis is placed on teaching students how subjects connect to the real world.
When I look at the next generation of accountants, I often feel that the education system needs to better bridge the gap between academia and the working world. That being said, if I had law-making powers I would bring about a change in the education system, such that students are more market ready when they graduate.
If I was not working in finance in UAE, I would probably have joined the Indian Civil Service. The Union Public Service Commission exam is one of the most difficult exams out there, and it would have given me immense pride to work in the administration of the country. Alternatively, I could also see myself in a role at an international sporting body such as the International Cricket Council or the Association of Tennis Professionals, as I am passionate about these sports. I would enjoy promoting them and spreading their reach to a wider audience.
A cinema experience is my treat over the weekend, and a bag full of popcorn while watching a great movie is a joy. I also enjoy long-distance endurance running, as this helps me push my limits physically and develop my mental strength.
