My interest in accounting began at secondary school. This guided me towards joining KPMG in Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, where my excellent mentors supported my pursuit of the ACCA qualification. The impact on my own development and the essential role accountancy plays in national development were my inspiration to join the profession.
I have spent over two decades as a telecommunications executive working in the Caribbean. I have led strategic network upgrades, improved customer experience and strengthened the companies where I served. My career started as an auditor with KPMG in Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, and in 2015 I was appointed country manager of what was then called Lime, now Flow.
Becoming country manager was a watershed moment in my career
I have also served in some notable roles, including president of the Saint Vincent and the Grenadines Chamber of Industry and Commerce. I am on the board of directors of two major regional financial institutions, and also previously volunteered for the Mediation Committee of the Eastern Caribbean Supreme Court and the OECS Business Council.
In late 2024, I became country manager for Flow in Antigua and Barbuda. My strategic priorities include deeper home internet penetration, expanding ICT services and ensuring digital inclusion, and driving exquisite financial business performance where my experience in accountancy has been essential.
I am confident growth and value will be driven through the adoption of AI. Finance professionals will need to develop new skillsets, as this technology will drive faster decision-making, interpret strategic trends, improve governance and produce high-quality advice for companies and clients.
I stepped out of my comfort zone in 2015, when I became country manager of Flow Saint Vincent and the Grenadines. This was a watershed moment in my career, as I had responsibility for large cross-functional teams in a commercially focused role. There were times when I lacked confidence; however, I coped by bringing my experience and using my ability to drive success for the business.
I live by this quote: ‘Render unto Caesar the things which are Caesar’s.’ It is important that we treat everyone with respect and fairness, with people being recognised for their merit and receiving their just rewards. This outlook has helped me to navigate difficult conversations but also lead in a positive way.
The impact my role has had on underserved communities has inspired my career
What I enjoy most about my job is that the telecommunications industry has purpose; it creates value for the people of the Caribbean and drives growth across the region. The impact my role has had on digital inclusion and the adoption of new technologies, especially to underserved communities, has inspired my career.
A major professional highlight of mine was successfully integrating two businesses. This then became the leader across all portfolios, with more customers, an upgraded network and a growing business set up for success long after my exit.
If I had law-making powers, I would strengthen legislation that protects the most vulnerable in our society. There would be laws concerning access for the disabled, making a major change in the life and happiness of this segment of the population. While some progress has been achieved, more needs to be done.
If I did not pursue accounting as a career choice, I would have walked the path of becoming a medical doctor. However, I am very happy that I chose to become an accountant.
My love for cricket and the West Indies team remains strong, and I still occasionally play a game of village cricket with friends. I have also taken up cycling to improve my fitness as part of maintaining a good work life balance.
