The common misconception is that accountants are dull, but I beg to differ. A good accountant is essentially a master storyteller, adept at weaving unstructured data into coherent narratives that provide valuable insights for decision-makers. As financial professionals, we have the unique opportunity to influence business and apply our expertise to help organisations achieve their objectives.
In my previous role within business services, a director explained the core values underpinning successful enterprises. He encouraged me to transcend the traditional confines of accounting and instead to think like an entrepreneur, focusing on aspects that are truly vital to a business. It was an epiphany. Financial statements are not just arbitrary figures, but narratives that encapsulate the company’s saga. These reports are a source of learning, offering lessons that enable us to refine the business’s future.
There’s a plethora of avenues for financial experts to elevate businesses to new heights
Back in 2018, I had the privilege of attending the World Congress of Accountants conference in Sydney. It was a pivotal moment when I recognised that modern accounting transcends mere financial control. With the advent of digital transformation, artificial intelligence, machine learning and business process improvement, there’s a plethora of avenues for financial experts to elevate businesses to new heights.
I am proud of my transformative role as a financial controller for a burgeoning freight forwarding company. Joining the company when it was in its nascent stage, I established a robust finance team from the ground up, expanded our Business Process Outsourcing capabilities, and devised strategic plans and risk management frameworks. Empowered by the managing director, I also implemented comprehensive systems to automate the accounting department, significantly enhancing efficiency and transparency. My seven-year tenure was marked by working alongside an entrepreneur to scale the company, achieving a significant multifold growth.
My experience has solidified my belief that accountancy is not confined to the end-of-month number crunching in isolation. Rather, it’s about integrating oneself within the business fabric, serving as a reliable business partner and a trusted advisor. This philosophy has been the cornerstone of my professional journey, and it’s what I consider my most significant accomplishment.
My career has been greatly enriched by the mentorship of two remarkable women
My current role as a commercial manager within the manufacturing sector offers a fresh perspective after years in the logistics sector. It’s incredibly satisfying to oversee the production process from start to finish, witnessing raw materials transform into products that fulfil customers’ aspirations for their ideal homes.
My career has been greatly enriched by the mentorship of two remarkable women – my CA mentor and my current CFO. They’ve demonstrated the importance of technical proficiency, effective communication, leadership and the ability to manage unexpected events, all of which are indispensable in the dynamic world of finance.
My family holds a special place in my heart. Whenever I find a moment to spare, I eagerly devote it to being with them. Together, we cook, read books, watch movies, stroll in the park and go on exciting journeys. Travelling to new places and experiencing different things invigorates me. While the old may not always surpass the new, the latter signifies possibility and uniqueness.
If I weren’t an accountant, I’d perhaps be a chef. My passion for food runs deep. I aspire to share that same joy with my family, friends and everyone around me.
