My ACA experience: Dennis
Dennis graduated from the University of Hong Kong with an accounting degree and is now Chief Financial Officer at VS Media.
Dennis graduated from the University of Hong Kong with an accounting degree and is now Chief Financial Officer at VS Media.
ICAEW route: Graduate
Industry: Business
Location: Hong Kong
Tell us about your career journey and what you do day-to-day in your role. Why is it so that workplaces support and celebrate diversity? Has ICAEW played a role in this?
I began my career with an international accountancy firm before advancing my career as an in-house accountant.
I am now a Chief Financial Officer at VS Media Limited, where day-to-day work affects the running of the financial operations of the company, including monthly management accounts, business forecasting, internal control, tax planning, and the year-end audit process.
VS Media is a digital media network built by creators and powered by content-driven social commerce, which bridges creators and brands together for mutual business growth. It is an honor to be the Department Head of Finance, and it helps develop my cooperation, problem-solving, and leadership skills.
Why did you choose the ACA over other accounting qualifications?
I obtained the ACA accounting qualification through the reciprocal membership agreement with the Hong Kong Institute of Certified Public Accountants (HKICPA). ICAEW is a very influential and respected professional body - which is well-established all over the world. It is certainly appealing to me, hence why I have a strong drive and ambition to obtain the ACA qualification, which will connect me to a global community of financial experts.
Who or what inspired you to become a chartered accountant?
My inspiration to become a chartered accountant came from my prior studies. I studied accounting and business-related subjects at secondary school, where I developed an interest in and understanding accounting and finance.
Accounting is a passion I have had from an early age, and attaining an accounting qualification of such a high standard, meant a lot to me.
Our accountants are more than you’d imagine. They challenge the traditional accountancy routes and career paths. They have an innovative approach and skill in their work. How do your career path, attitude, and skillset support this?
Working for an innovative and impressive organization like VS Media has meant I can develop my technical knowledge and communication skills. I communicate with several parties like Paid Media and Campaign team, influencers, banks, and other professional parties in my role, so I must keep my skills up to date so that I can provide helpful support and advice from the company perspective.