I began my career as an accountant for a financial services company. I didn’t find the work particularly interesting and started looking for a more exciting role. I got an opportunity to work as a functional consultant in an enterprise resource planning (ERP) consultancy company; I realised that my background in accounting and finance, and the chance to build ERP skills, would give me unique skill set.
Moving from Karachi to work in Saudi Arabia was a turning point in my career. It’s a different and multicultural environment here in Saudi Arabia, which is very exciting. I now have responsibility for both the ERP and IT departments at Mada Gypsum and have never looked back.
The word gypsum is derived from the Greek word ‘gypsos’, meaning plaster. Gypsum is a mineral; if you dehydrate it, you make plaster of Paris. If you add water to that, the material will harden and set in ways that are useful for casting. Gypsum is used primarily in the construction sector to make drywall, plaster and cement, with gypsum board used mainly as a finish for walls and ceilings.
My favourite mantra is: ‘Do more than you are asked for and your future will take care of itself’
Gypsum is very big business. The gypsum board market worldwide has grown from US$57.68bn in 2024 to US$61.51bn in 2025, and is projected to reach US$86.13bn by 2030. The best opportunities are in commercial office buildings and retail; industrial construction such as manufacturing facilities and warehouses; and residential property.
When I was asked to take on the additional role of managing IT operations, I had little practical background in systems infrastructure. I had worked as an ERP manager for four years at that point, and it was a step outside of my comfort zone. I didn’t have experience of running IT operations but I’m glad that I took the role; it has allowed me to learn new skills and gain an understanding of IT functions overall.
I believe that no matter what happens, hard work never fails. My favourite mantra is: ‘Do more than you are asked for and your future will take care of itself.’
What I enjoy most about my job is discovering new things. I find that every day my work brings new challenges but also great opportunities to increase my knowledge and learn about the latest technologies.
I would legislate to introduce a standard school curriculum across the country
My work ethic is a major asset. I pride myself on showing up on time, working hard, building trust with my co-workers and always being open to developing new skills.
If I had the power, I would make education free at the primary and secondary school level. I would also legislate to introduce a standard school curriculum across the country.
If I wasn’t an accountant, I think I would have joined the military. I find the idea of a physically demanding job appealing – but it’s hard to imagine not working in finance!
I love to cook; I am always looking for new and interesting recipes. I also like to play sports including cricket, football and squash, and go to the gym regularly. I enjoy it, but it’s also important to keep myself fit and healthy.
