Why did you choose the ACA over other accounting qualifications?

It was essential for me to embark on a professional qualification that is recognised globally; the ACA was the clear choice.

In addition to having a global reach, the ACA focuses on both practical and technical aspects of the accountancy and finance profession. These benefits naturally transfer to ICAEW Chartered Accountants, and enhance our proven ability to deliver in our daily rundown.

Tell us about your career journey.

I trained and qualified as an ICAEW Chartered Accountant at KPMG Mauritius and once qualified, I wanted to gain international exposure.

Having the ACA letters after my name, helped me to find opportunities in several jurisdictions: I received offers to relocate to Dublin, Cayman Islands, Amsterdam, Zurich, and finally settled to move to Luxembourg. I am currently working in the Private Equity practice at KPMG Luxembourg.

What skills have you gained from the ACA that have helped you in the workplace? 

I was never much of a number cruncher back in my university days. The wide range of modules throughout the ACA helped me develop a strong analytical mindset, and put a story and meaning behind the huge set of numbers that gets through me at my workplace. I am now more confident to present past data and forecasts to both colleagues and clients, in a comprehensive way.

What does ethics mean to you as an ICAEW Chartered Accountant?

Real integrity is doing the right thing, knowing that nobody is going to know whether you did it or not. Oprah Winfrey said it, and I think it is very much applicable to our daunting profession. Ethics is deeply embedded within all modules of the ACA. At the end of our training, it becomes second nature to ICAEW Chartered Accountants to apply the highest level of integrity at our workplace and in our daily habits.

If someone was interested in a career in chartered accountancy, what would you say to them to inspire them to choose the ACA?

Don’t look back and go for it! The ACA is the most prestigious and coveted designation in the field of accountancy and finance. The syllabus and work experience is excellent for you to obtain a strong knowledge base and top-notch technical skills.

The ACA will help you to stand out from your peers. Firms are seeing the increased value of having ICAEW Chartered Accountants in other areas outside their accounting desks.