Flying high

‘Beyond technical expertise, success in the role requires a high level of emotional intelligence,’ Shahroz says. ‘It gives me an opportunity to work in a collaborative environment across diverse teams, cultures and time zones, which means being able to navigate different perspectives, foster strong relationships and align financial objectives with broader business goals.’

His key responsibilities include managing tax compliance (VAT, withholding, payroll and ticketing taxes), budgeting and cost control. ‘Additionally, I focus on building financial awareness across business units and leading the finance team to drive performance and operational efficiency. This role offers me a unique blend of strategic and operational exposure.’

It’s a dynamic business to be in, he says. ‘The airline industry is inherently volatile, with financial professionals having to navigate the challenges of fluctuating currency exchange rates, fuel prices and credit risk management. Compliance can be complex, requiring adherence to both corporate governance frameworks and evolving local regulatory requirements.’

Work, study, repeat

Shahroz’s Emirates appointment came after a decade in both public and private practice, during which he completed both his ACCA studies and a degree.

‘My varied skills and experiences have equipped me with the ability to oversee financial operations, drive cost efficiencies and provide data-driven insights at Emirates,’ he says. ‘These are key competencies in an industry where financial agility, regulatory adherence and operational efficiency are paramount.’

Accounting ambition

An accounting career had always appealed. ‘I enjoy the structure and logic behind our profession – how every transaction has to balance, how financial reports tell a story.’

Bypassing the usual university pathway, he enrolled in ACCA’s programme directly from high school. He had only completed the Foundation level when KPMG ‘came knocking at my door’ with the offer of a traineeship. ‘I knew that if I could succeed in that space, learning from the best, I’d be prepared for anything in my career,’ he says.

His peers cautioned him about the demands of juggling work and study, but passion and determination kept him focused.

During his three-year traineeship, he simultaneously achieved his ACCA qualification and, through a collaborative initiative between ACCA and Oxford Brookes University via distance learning, a degree in applied accounting.

‘At KPMG I was gaining hands-on experience, but ACCA gave me theoretical depth and international perspective,’ he says. ‘The qualification not only reinforced my technical expertise in auditing, taxation and financial reporting, but also helped me develop a broader understanding of business and finance. Plus, with ACCA’s flexibility, I could balance my studies alongside my demanding workload, which was crucial.’

After five years at KPMG, and promotion to assistant manager, Shahroz yearned to broaden his expertise in global financial reporting. A move to Citi provided that opportunity within a structured banking environment.

Then, after two private sector roles – one in financial advisory, the other in healthcare – ‘the opportunity at Emirates was compelling’.

Upskilling

Throughout his career, he has constantly sought to add skills, and the ACCA qualification has been ‘pivotal’. He says: ‘It has provided me with a strong technical foundation in accounting, finance and strategic management – skills that have been essential in every role I’ve undertaken. The global recognition of ACCA has also opened doors to opportunities in different industries, giving me the flexibility to transition across sectors. Beyond technical skills, the qualification instilled a structured, analytical approach to problem-solving, equipping me to navigate complex financial challenges and contribute to strategic decision-making with confidence and precision.’

The youthful 33-year-old remains committed to continuous learning, although these days, he makes time to switch off and enjoy his downtime. Travelling and exploring new cultures with his wife and young son, playing cricket, and reading about business and finance trends ‘help me maintain a balanced mindset and bring fresh energy to my professional life’.

He remains actively engaged with the ACCA community, mentoring students on career progression and exam preparation, and sharing insights on financial leadership and industry trends to support the next generation of finance professionals.

‘The finance industry is evolving rapidly, and staying ahead requires embracing new financial technologies and innovation,’ he says. ‘I’m always eager to take on new challenges, mentor others and contribute to meaningful business transformations.’

His ultimate career vision? ‘To take on a senior leadership role where I can drive financial strategy at a global level. Whether in aviation or another industry, I aim to be in a position where I can influence key financial decisions and drive sustainable success.’