I moved from Nigeria to the UK in 2022 – something that was definitely facilitated by the knowledge I gained from studying the ACCA qualification. It has also enabled me to take on complex roles.
One such complex role was at Deloitte, where I played a key part in one of the most significant banking mergers in the past decade. Having the ability to navigate intricate financial structures and provide critical insights during such a significant transaction was incredibly fulfilling.
I now oversee the activities of Shell’s treasury centres. We help streamline banking relationships and optimise liquidity, foreign exchange and financial risk management. Given the scale of the organisation and the various geopolitical and sustainability challenges we navigate, this role is complex and dynamic. Our work directly impacts Shell’s financial reporting, share price management and broader corporate strategy. Collaborating with senior stakeholders, including the CFO, to provide financial clarity in an ever-changing landscape is incredibly rewarding.
While AI can highlight trends, it takes a finance professional to apply scepticism
Technology, especially AI and automation, is fundamentally reshaping finance. It is already integrated into our work, from automating data extraction to analysing financial statements. However, professional judgment remains irreplaceable. While AI can highlight trends, it takes a finance professional to apply scepticism, assess risk and provide strategic recommendations.
We have to ensure AI-generated insights align with real-world complexities. The future will belong to those who can combine financial expertise with technological proficiency. I’ve invested in learning basic programming skills such as SQL, which helps extract and manipulate financial data more effectively.
Finance professionals are the last line of defence in ensuring transparent reporting
Ethical integrity is at the core of finance. I didn’t fully appreciate this at the start of my career but, over time, I’ve seen first-hand how integrity safeguards businesses and economies. Finance professionals are the last line of defence in ensuring transparent reporting.
Sustainability is also a growing focus. At Shell, we assess how sustainability initiatives affect financial statements, ensuring that investments align with regulatory requirements and ethical considerations.
To those starting out in finance, I’d say don’t be intimidated by numbers. Finance is more about problem-solving than pure mathematics. Also, if you’ve started the ACCA qualification, commit to finishing it. The journey can be tough, but perseverance pays off.
