My first job after graduating in accounting from Addis Ababa University was as junior credit analyst at the Development Bank of Ethiopia. I then joined Ethiopian Airlines in February 2003 as junior treasury analyst and have progressed to the level of group treasurer.
I was very lucky to have very good mentors right from the time I joined the airline. I was exposed to most of the treasury activities in the early days of my career, giving me the opportunity to know what technical skills and expertise are required to be a successful treasurer. So I was looking for a professional body that could equip me with such strategic thinking, skills and professional values.
My role as a treasurer covers a wide range of assignments, including liquidity management, risk and insurance, financing and debt, fuel procurement, tax administration, and strategic planning. The airline’s experienced, dedicated and committed staff is the key to its success.
The tragic loss of flight ET-302 was a heart-breaking accident, and it was one of the most difficult times in the airline’s history
The airline has had very good relationships both with leasing companies and financiers. The tragic loss of our flight ET-302 was a heart-breaking accident, and it was one of the most difficult times in the airline’s history.
It can take years of hard work to become a skilled treasurer. The ACCA Qualification gives you confidence that you have the technical, analytical and business knowledge to be a well-rounded treasury professional.
I enjoy my role. Treasurers operate in a highly complex environment and are increasingly called upon to find innovative solutions. I want to end my career as a CFO or as a reputable management consultant.
I am very proud to be at the forefront of arranging various award-winning aircraft financing structures. These include the 2018 Deal of the Year (Middle East and Africa) from Airfinance Journal, and the Africa Lease Deal of the Year 2018 from Airline Economics. In May this year I was Highly Commended Winner in the Best Funding Solution category at the Treasury Today Adam Smith Awards. These are my biggest achievements.
In my spare time I love reading. I also like watching football.