I began my career as an assistant accountant in a manufacturing company in UAE. After three years I moved to Dubai Electricity and Water Authority (DEWA), joining the billing services division. This was the game-changing event in my career journey, helping me to gain insights into real-world financial matters.
DEWA faces significant challenges, including increasing energy and water demand, sustainability goals and the integration of renewable energy sources. The authority is expanding its infrastructure by investing in new power plants and water desalination units while upgrading existing facilities. It is also leveraging smart-grid technology to enhance efficiency and manage resources more effectively.
By staying with one institution, you can position yourself for leadership roles and other opportunities
In terms of sustainability, DEWA has launched several renewable energy initiatives, including one of the world’s largest single-site solar parks, as well as exploring renewable options like hydrogen energy. The authority has also implemented various customer service initiatives, including its own mobile apps and online services.
Working for a government entity involves dealing with accounting standards, regulatory compliance, the corporate governance framework and much more. The key aspect of my work is ad hoc policies and procedures.
I’ve built my career at DEWA, which has provided me with some key advantages. I have had stability and job security, and developed deep organisational knowledge. I have enjoyed career advancement, professional and personal growth, recognition and awards. By staying with one institution, you can position yourself for leadership roles and other opportunities that arise as you prove your commitment and capabilities.
Public sector organisations usually offer better work-life balance and generous leave policies, as well as other benefits. They also often invest in their employees’ professional growth through training programmes, certification and educational opportunities. All of these have added to my professional fulfilment and helped advance my career.
This quote from US National Football League coach Vince Lombardi resonates with me: ‘The quality of a person’s life is in direct proportion to their commitment to excellence, regardless of their chosen field of endeavour.’
If I had law-making powers, I would implement stringent regulations to significantly reduce greenhouse gas emissions and make climate education mandatory in schools. For corporations, I would enforce strict accountability to ensure adherence to environmental regulations.
Putting the letters ‘ACCA’ after my name is my biggest achievement
What I enjoy most about my job are new tasks and responsibilities. It is satisfying to be able to master these by utilising my skills and experience.
Gaining a professional accounting qualification was always my ambition. Therefore, being able to put the letters ‘ACCA’ after my name is my biggest achievement.
If I wasn’t an accountant, I would be a data analyst. I like working with numbers and could use my skills in data interpretation, analysis and modelling to provide insights for business decisions.
In my spare time I like to play cricket, watch movies and go on long drives. Cooking is also something I really enjoy.
