These are exciting times in solar power. K-Solar is initiating the largest power purchase agreement with a prominent textile organisation. This highlights the growing interest from both residential and commercial sectors in adopting solar solutions, driven by Pakistan’s high energy costs.
The primary challenge for solarisation lies in procurement and financing. Many solar companies in Pakistan have now shifted to an engineering, procurement and construction model, which involves installing solar setups at a fixed price. However, consumers, both industrial and residential, are reluctant to invest significant capital in solar panels.
Since 2022, I have been with K-Electric, Pakistan’s largest utility company as manager of corporate affairs. My role is to ensure compliance with the code of corporate governance by implementing robust frameworks, as well as monitor company policies, and oversee stakeholder engagement. I’m also company secretary for K-Electric’s solar energy subsidiary, K-Solar.
What I enjoy most about my role as a company secretary is the close association with board members and leaders. Engaging in discussions with senior individuals is invaluable, offering me access to their extensive knowledge.
When I’m not busy at my day job, I teach as a visiting faculty member at the Institute of Business Management, which is one of the leading business schools in Pakistan. I prioritise teaching one course per semester, ideally on the weekends. My passion for sharing practical knowledge and staying up-to-date in accounting and finance motivates me to contribute to students’ learning.
I was inspired to join the profession by my friends and family who were working in accountancy. I chose to study ACCA because of its global relevance and recognition. Personally, ACCA has opened doors to a strong professional network, and has given me opportunities to take on key roles in respected organisations.
I began my career in 2010 at Pak Qatar Takaful Group as a finance executive. There, I played a crucial role in the the implementation of SAP. I then joined the i-Care Foundation Pakistan as a project accountant, overseeing various non-profits. After that I became the finance lead for a US$7m USAID project at the Aman Foundation and later helped establish the TAF Foundation for Byco Petroleum, focusing on women’s vocational education. I managed finance, administration and procurement, and collaborations with international media, including Voice of America.
In 2020, I joined Sindh Integrated Emergency & Health Services as company secretary, reporting to the Provincial Health Minister. One of my biggest accomplishments in the role involved incorporating the company with the Securities and Exchange Commission of Pakistan.
I stepped out of my comfort zone in 2016 when I was asked to lead a public non-profit organisation as CFO, while also taking on the role of company secretary. This took me beyond the usual CFO duties and required extensive collaboration with legal advisers, the Securities and Exchange Commission of Pakistan and various agencies. I also played a key role in recruiting individuals to the board.
There are two quotes I like. ‘Ideation without execution is delusion’ and ‘To double your income, triple your investment in personal mastery and professional development.’ They help me to strive for excellence and prioritise actions over words in my daily life.
My biggest professional achievement is completing the ACCA qualification and becoming a fellow in 2019. Transitioning from the non-profit sector to my current commercial role also represents a significant leap in my career.
If I hadn’t pursued a career in finance, I might be teaching at a university. I have a particular interest in Islamic literature and Arabic.
I am a member of the prestigious and historic Karachi Club. I enjoy spending my spare time there socialising, visiting the library, swimming and going to the gym.
