I began my career in Moldova as an assistant in the accounting department of the Academy of Economic Studies, combining research with practical experience as an accountant. For over 14 years I’ve provided international advisory support to regulators in corporate financial reporting and public audit oversight.
It was my PhD coordinator who inspired me with a simple principle. If you can understand and clearly define the cause of a problem in accounting, you can find the right solution. This mindset has guided my personal and professional growth.
The Centre for Financial and Sustainability Reporting Reform supports regulators across Europe and Central Asia in strengthening corporate financial and sustainability reporting. While each country has its own reporting ecosystem of regulatory frameworks, enforcement, professional standards, ethics and accounting profession, all must be consistently maintained and strengthened. Our main challenge is advancing reforms among varying levels of government commitment, uncertainty about sustainability, weak incentives, limited funding and a lack of local expertise, especially in smaller jurisdictions.
Working in a constantly evolving field like corporate reporting demands creative thinking and decisive action
My role frequently pushes me out of my comfort zone, but this is often an important step towards personal growth. Working in a multicultural environment and a constantly evolving field like corporate reporting demands creative thinking and decisive action. It also requires adaptability, resilience and embracing complexity. This was especially true when I moved to Austria last year – a significant decision that impacted both my personal life and career.
I don’t have a favourite quote or mantra. However, I believe every problem has a solution. I prefer to understand the circumstances and find an approach that fits best.
If I had law-making powers, I would require all large companies around the world to report on their sustainability strategies. After some initial investment from companies, the long-term benefits for society and the planet would be significant. When companies are more transparent about ESG, people understand the impact better, and governments are more likely to act.
Sustainability reporting is just a tool. It doesn’t directly change corporate behaviour, but it encourages companies to reflect on their impact, risks and opportunities. By prioritising sustainability, businesses would help build a better future, while also benefiting from stronger stakeholder trust and long-term resilience, making life better for everyone.
Maybe somewhere an accountant is trying to figure out how to measure the value of the Earth
What I enjoy about my job is working with clients across different countries on financial and sustainability reporting. Understanding the local context and collaborating is especially rewarding. My work focuses on helping client countries to introduce sustainability reporting requirements, but I also enjoy the extensive analytical and research work we do, such as the Accounting and Auditing Reports on the Observance of Standards and Codes. This research also aligns with the professional skills I’ve built up throughout my career.
At the risk of being unoriginal, I would say my greatest professional success was obtaining my ACCA qualification. I studied independently and, beyond gaining technical knowledge and skills, the process taught me discipline and how to prioritise effectively. It has played a key role in helping me to advance my career.
If I weren’t a qualified accountant, I might work in the field of astrobiology. I would love to know the origins, evolution and future of life in the universe. Maybe somewhere in the universe an accountant is trying to figure out how to measure the value of the Earth these days, now that the planet is so degraded by its people…
When I am not at work, I read extensively. I also like to relax by doing embroidery and going hiking.
