The view from Paramveer Vilkhu FCCA

I’m lucky to derive a great deal of enjoyment and satisfaction from my work. Leading a large, diverse team on complex engagements is a significant motivator, inspiring me to keep surpassing expectations. My role is demanding, but it suits my enthusiasm for innovation, automation and strategic management.

Observing the respect my elder brother gained as a chartered accountant, along with a love of numbers, led me to embrace a career in accounting. I completed my practical training in the Indian city of Nagpur and, after taking a post-graduate degree in accounting and finance, I moved to London in 2011, where I obtained my ACCA qualification. Then in 2014 I worked at a mid-sized accountancy firm in London before moving back to India to join EY Global Delivery Services in the southern city of Bengaluru in 2015. I have been working there ever since.

I stepped out of my comfort zone when I moved to London. It was the biggest decision of my young life. Leaving India and living far away from family and friends was difficult, but it shaped me both as a person and professionally. The experience challenged me to adapt, fostering my resilience while profoundly influencing my character and perspective.

AI holds immense potential to revolutionise auditing by automating routine tasks and extracting deeper insights from data. This allows auditors to focus on higher-level judgment, risk assessment and strategic client interactions. However, realising this potential requires significant investment in AI technology and talent acquisition. Firms must also address ethical considerations, including potential algorithmic bias and data security. While AI serves as a powerful analytical partner, human oversight remains crucial. Therefore, audit firms must cultivate a workforce proficient in both traditional auditing and emerging AI technologies to navigate this evolving landscape.

I find this quote from US author and business professional Ken Blanchard inspiring: ‘None of us is as smart as all of us.’ This idea is the basis for my leadership approach, emphasising the power of a collaborative team, fostering an environment where every member feels valued and empowered and can contribute to a more motivated unit. This quote keeps me focused on building a team that excels through shared expertise and hard work.

Businesses in India certainly face challenges, such as regulatory hurdles and infrastructure gaps, but the country’s dynamic growth offers abundant opportunities. The rise of AI presents vast potential for innovation in sectors like healthcare, fintech and manufacturing, while India’s growing consumer market and skilled workforce create a positive environment for businesses to thrive. The global trade environment, influenced by factors like Trump, adds some uncertainty, yet India remains a key player in global supply chains.

If I had law-making powers, I would ensure free, quality education for all, to break the cycle of poverty, particularly in underserved areas. I’d also focus on policies for social upliftment, such as affordable healthcare, development of employment opportunities, and skills programmes. These laws would empower marginalised communities, foster greater equality and create sustainable growth for all citizens.

If I hadn’t pursued accountancy, I might have been a market analyst or a portfolio manager. The challenge of interpreting complex data and understanding the dynamics of investment markets has always intrigued me. My accounting background would provide transferable skills to these fields, allowing me to dissect financial statements and assess investment opportunities with rigour.

When I am not at work, I’m passionate about giving back to my community by supporting local orphanages and charities. I also enjoy exploring people’s stories through interviews for my YouTube channel, a project that allows me to connect with diverse individuals. Above all, I cherish quality time with my family and friends, who are my greatest source of joy.