I have always had a fascination with numbers and problem-solving, so an accountancy career was a perfect fit. I started my career with PwC and have since worked in various finance roles. Over the past decade this has mainly involved public financial management and accountability, especially donor fund management. It requires lots of travel, and I’ve had the privilege of working in multiple countries across Africa, Europe and Asia.
I have been blessed with great bosses and colleagues. However, my parents have always been my biggest influence, inspiring me with their intellect and unyielding faith in God. In tough times, I can always count on my faith to help me pull through.
Starting out in a practice role gave me wide exposure to multiple industries, which provided a strong foundation for my career. However, I feel that working with corporations brings me closer to the action, giving the opportunity to have a more direct impact on business strategy. I’ve worked as an internal auditor for a retail bank, a CFO at a life insurance company, and an investment risk manager for a government pension fund agency.
My move from an HQ role to the field was driven by the desire to have more direct engagement with programme implementers. It has been a challenging journey, but I’ve had few regrets
In 2012 I moved to Switzerland to join the Global Fund to Fight Aids, Tuberculosis and Malaria. As lead auditor, I led teams of multiskilled professionals in reviewing the non-governmental organisation’s risk controls.
Leaving my HQ role in Geneva to work in the field, first in Uganda, then Nigeria and now Liberia, was a major career risk. I’m currently with Cardno International Development, which provides specialised professional services in development programmes across a range of infrastructure sectors. My move was driven by the desire to have more direct engagement with programme implementers. It has been a challenging journey, but I’ve had few regrets.
I enjoy the opportunity to drive change that is ultimately contributing to saving lives and transforming livelihoods. This is a source of motivation when things get tough.
I’m proud of the fact that for the past 10 years most of the work I have done has been obtained through referrals. This seems an affirmation that I’m doing something right. It also serves as a constant reminder of the value of networks.
Covid-19 has affected so many things, including our ability to conduct in-field activities. However, it has also helped to drive innovation and process improvements such as increased use of digital payment platforms to disburse funds to beneficiaries.
If I wasn’t an accountant, I would still likely have done something with numbers. I might have been an actuary or investment banker. However, if my height matched my passion, I would definitely have played professional basketball.
Outside of work I am passionate about personal finance and investment, basketball and travel. One of my life goals is to visit every country on Earth.
