What I enjoy most about my job is solving complex problems while also creating an environment where people feel motivated to do their best work. I find great fulfilment in turning challenges into practical solutions, while inspiring and supporting others to grow and perform at their highest level.
After completing my ACCA qualification, I began my career at the Zambia Revenue Authority before moving into tax consulting at PwC Zambia. I later joined Standard Chartered Bank Zambia through its graduate training programme, where I fast-tracked into multiple roles that strengthened my abilities in operations management.
I found my niche at the intersection of finance, operations and logistics
This experience led me into the manufacturing sector, where I found my niche at the intersection of finance, operations and logistics. From Lafarge Zambia to Parmalat Zambia, Zambia Breweries and now Zambia Sugar, my roles have progressively focused on operational excellence, productivity improvement and cost management. I currently head the logistics function at Zambia Sugar.
The sugar industry faces several interconnected challenges. The most significant of these is climate change, which directly affects cane yields and production reliability. Rising costs are also an issue, particularly for energy, agricultural consumables, production and logistics.
Despite these challenges, the industry still has many opportunities. Climate-smart agriculture and water efficiency have significant potential to improve yields and sustainability. There is also growing expertise in operational aspects, through improving productivity, reducing waste and strengthening supply chain efficiency. Ultimately, the future of the sugar industry lies in balancing efficiency, sustainability and innovation, while proactively responding to changing consumer and environmental expectations.
I stepped out of my comfort zone when I moved from finance into logistics and operations. This was a defining moment for me as I was leaving a space where I felt confident and moving into a role that demanded on-the-ground leadership, rapid decision-making and full accountability for the outcomes. This stretched me in ways I couldn’t have imagined and it ultimately shaped my confidence as a leader.
My greatest achievement was stepping in as acting head of finance during Covid-19
My greatest achievement was successfully leading a major refinancing project when I stepped in as acting head of finance during Covid-19. The refinancing was achieved within a 12 month period despite the uncertainty, using a combination of options. It was a true test of leadership, strategy and resilience, and it showed me the importance of staying calm and focused under pressure.
If I had law-making powers, I would strengthen education and skills development. I would make going to school mandatory, especially given that there is free education. I believe this would be a foundation for opportunity, empowerment and a stronger society.
It was my father who inspired me to become an accountant. Formerly a pilot but now retired, he was deeply invested in my education from a young age and encouraged me to make informed choices through research. His guidance has played a lasting role in shaping my career.
If I weren’t an accountant, I would have loved to be an engineer as I have always been drawn to manufacturing and operations. I enjoy challenges which require problem-solving, process improvement and seeing teams work efficiently towards a common goal, all of which are at the heart of what I do now. I love the opportunities that ACCA has opened for me and I have no regrets.
Outside of work, I enjoy travelling and exploring new places, immersing myself in different cultures and experiencing life from new perspectives. It keeps me curious, inspired and constantly learning.
