Nulla dies sine linea. This, my favourite maxim, translates as ‘No day without a line’ and is attributed to the ancient Greek artist Apelles, who considered a day wasted if he hadn’t added something to a painting. It is about improving your abilities every single day. As a manager and a mother, I juggle many responsibilities, which makes efficiency and productivity essential. At the end of each day, I reflect on what I’ve accomplished, focusing on the quality and impact of what I do. Anything that moves the needle in my professional and personal life makes me feel fulfilled.
I have stepped out of my comfort zone professionally and personally many times. I have worked in various audit firms, relocated to Malta, and completed a secondment in Australia to broaden my experience. It is a challenge to balance that with family life – I strive to ensure both aspects are in harmony. A memorable time for me was becoming a manager. I had to adopt a completely different mindset to my work, my colleagues and the company leadership. The process was demanding but it was also rewarding and transformative.
Working smarter is essential, and AI can help us do that
What I enjoy most about my job is its dynamism. Collaborating with professionals from diverse industries gives valuable insights into their expertise, broadening my perspective. I also like strategic planning and brainstorming with my team. My work keeps me challenged and constantly learning, which makes the job rewarding. No two workdays are ever the same.
I am optimistic about AI in audit. It has the potential to significantly reduce repetitive tasks, enhance data analysis and improve efficiency. This will free up valuable time for auditors to focus on higher-level activities, such as risk assessment, strategic insights and exploring new business opportunities. In a world where industries are evolving at great pace and professional demands are constantly increasing, working smarter is essential, and I believe AI can help us do that. However, it requires critical thinking, integrity and ethics to be at the forefront.
There are challenges, though. Workforce restructuring is one, as adapting to AI can bring uncertainties and resistance. Another key issue is data security, and ensuring personal and business information remains confidential will be critical. Striking the right balance here is key to the successful integration of AI into the audit profession.
There are opportunities in innovation and digital transformation
Croatia faces significant economic development challenges. The country is heavily reliant on tourism, which makes the economy vulnerable to seasonal fluctuations and external shocks. Limited industrial diversification and a lack of entrepreneurship further hinder growth. However, opportunities can be found in innovation, support for small businesses, and digital transformation.
If I had law-making powers, I would support entrepreneurship, innovation and start-ups. I’d do this by means of targeted taxes, educational reforms and government incentives. Encouraging young people to stay and develop their ideas in Croatia is essential to foster a thriving economy that can keep pace with global advances.
If I weren’t a qualified accountant, I’d want to be an architect or a photographer. I have a strong creative side and am visually inclined, which draws me to aesthetics and design. Outside of work, I practise photography, which helps me express my creativity, and I also enjoy spending time with my family, playing sports and travelling.
