My aptitude for numbers and analytical thinking drew me to accounting, a field where I quickly realised the importance of building trust and clarity in decision-making. Beginning in financial audit, I gained expertise across various industries while working in several countries. During my MBA, a class on sustainability management shifted my focus, inspiring me to use my skills to address environmental and social challenges.
I stepped out of my comfort zone on a secondment to Oceania. I had to quickly adapt to new business cultures in New Zealand and then took on leadership roles in Australia. Transitioning from audit to sustainability was uncharted territory for me, strengthening my resilience, and developing my personal and professional growth.
The interplay between research and practice has been rewarding, and enhances my work
My decision to pursue both a doctorate and an MBA, alongside my full-time role, came from my commitment to lifelong learning and a desire to contribute to my profession. The MBA provides a strategic lens on business operations, while my doctorate focuses on developing frameworks for sustainability reporting. The interplay between research and practice has been rewarding, and enhances my work, while the challenges I encounter professionally I feed back into my studies.
Working in sustainability assurance offers a dynamic and purpose-driven environment. What I enjoy about my role is that I make a tangible impact – helping organisations assess and enhance their environmental and social performance gives a meaningful dimension to my work. It is not just about compliance requirements; it is about helping businesses make a lasting, positive difference.
I like this mantra: ‘Auditing the present to secure the future’. This highlights the importance of addressing today’s challenges with a forward-looking approach. I also like this: ‘Sustainability is the lens through which we shape the future’. This reinforces the critical role of business in tackling global issues such as climate change. I believe sustainability reporting is a powerful tool to drive action, contributing to a more transparent and resilient future.
A major challenge facing Swiss businesses is navigating complex new sustainability regulations, such as the EU’s Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive. This requires integrating sustainability-related information into existing reporting processes, often for the first time. The accountancy profession is uniquely positioned to help structure and verify this data, ensuring accuracy and credibility. Accountants can then guide companies in using sustainability reporting as a strategic tool to build resilience and attract investment.
Growing up in 10 countries gave me a deep appreciation for cultural diversity and collaboration
If I had law-making powers, I would focus on sustainability. We are witnessing a consolidation in sustainability reporting, so I would develop a unified global framework, building on the rapid evolution of the European Sustainability Reporting Standards, which are already shaping practices worldwide. This would simplify compliance, while fostering transparency and giving high-quality data for stakeholders globally.
If I wasn’t an accountant, I would have pursued international relations, following in my father’s footsteps as a diplomat. Growing up in 10 countries gave me a deep appreciation for cultural diversity and collaboration. I believe a global perspective is invaluable, as bridging diverse viewpoints is critical to finding effective solutions. My passion for creating connections would have been very relevant in this field.
Outside of work, I focus on staying active and connected with nature. I’m currently tackling the Stairmaster at my gym – it has become a personal mission. Living in Switzerland, I am fortunate to have access to breathtaking mountains and lakes, where I enjoy hiking and spending time with friends. These activities recharge me and remind me of the beauty we must preserve for future generations.
