My interest in accounting wasn’t sparked by a single moment, it was a more of a journey. At school, I became curious about business, which led me to study accounting at university. I began my career with KPMG in Luxembourg and progressed to associate partner.
In 2020 I decided to join a friend who was already running a company. However, after 18 months I realised my real passion was auditing, so I returned to KPMG as an audit partner in the financial services area. The field of accounting is always evolving with new regulations and technologies so needs a commitment to ongoing education, and this constant change fascinates me.
I’ve stepped out of my comfort zone several times during my career. Leaving audit and running a business where I had to manage almost everything on my own, without any internal structure, was one such example. Another challenge came when I worked as an alternative investment fund manager. I found myself having to rewrite content for our new website and negotiate facility management agreements for the office building, all while implementing new anti-money laundering (AML) processes.
I like meeting with so many different people from diverse backgrounds
AI is already making a significant impact today, but we are just at the beginning. In the mid-term, I expect it to revolutionise financial reporting and auditing, enabling the delivery of more robust and efficient audits. AI can process and analyse large data sets quickly, providing auditors with valuable insights that may not be immediately apparent through traditional methods.
It will be essential to invest in this technology. We must use AI and appropriate strategies to ensure clients receive the best experience to allow better-informed decisions. The use of AI raises ethical questions about transparency, accountability and the potential for misuse, so clear ethical guidelines are essential. Firms must also invest in their people to enhance the skills and expertise of our marketplace.
What I find most enjoyable about my job is that every day brings a variety of unexpected challenges that I must address, which makes each day unique. I also like meeting with so many different people from diverse backgrounds, which I find both enriching and inspiring.
My favourite quote comes from Nelson Mandela. ‘It always seems impossible until it’s done.’
If laws are unpredictable and unstable, businesses are discouraged from making long-term investments
Situated in the heart of Europe, Luxembourg is influenced by global and European economic developments. The country has demonstrated its ability to be agile and adapt to changing circumstances in the past, and in these times of economic uncertainties and evolving technologies, a willingness to change is a crucial factor for future success. Businesses in Luxembourg have numerous opportunities, including in the financial services sector, embracing the government’s support for technology and innovation, using the country’s strategic location for logistics and trade, and capitalising on sustainable development practices.
If I had law-making powers, I would simplify legislation to ensure that everyone, especially private individuals, can easily understand the laws that affect them. For business, I believe stability is crucial. If laws are unpredictable and unstable, businesses are discouraged from making long-term investments. I would also create clear guidelines for the use of blockchain technology and cryptocurrencies, promoting their adoption while ensuring consumer protection.
If I was not an accountant, I think I would have gone into natural science or engineering. This is influenced by my father, who was an engineer and passionate about natural science.
When I am not at work I enjoy spending time with my family, enjoying nature and engaging in sports. I love going on hikes, playing golf with family and friends or experiencing the beauty of the countryside while trail running.
