I began my career in finance at what is now called the Oman Financial Services Authority (FSA), joining as an entry-level regulatory examiner. Early in my journey, a mentor who helped shape me into the professional I have become showed me that technical skills are equal in importance to a workplace culture grounded in integrity.
That guidance led me to pursue my ACCA qualification. For me, it wasn’t just a certificate; it was more like a statement of alignment with Oman’s determination to comply fully with IFRS and ISA, and also a gateway to understanding the true dynamics of the financial ecosystem. My ACCA training marked a pivotal turning point. I began to see beyond legal codes and appreciate the deeper motives that drive different players in the capital market, insurance sector and audit profession.
A career in the public sector is about serving the nation
Oman’s FSA is navigating a shifting global landscape, which forms the context for my work. Challenges such as increasing transparency, integrating sustainability standards and adapting to international reforms remain of great importance. A finance sector grounded in ethics, data and accountability is key to addressing these issues head-on. Our efforts will continue to ensure stability while still supporting strategic innovation.
What I enjoy most about my job and what anchors me to the finance profession is the same thing that first drew me in: serving the public interest. Knowing that my role contributes to building trust in financial systems and protecting the interests of stakeholders gives meaning to my work every day.
A career in the public sector has its own rewards. It’s not just about regulatory frameworks or oversight, but more about serving the nation, influencing long-term economic resilience, and doing work that extends beyond balance sheets. It’s a place where purpose and profession intersect.
If I hadn’t gone into the world of finance, I suspect I would have found myself in public policy. This is another arena where ideas, integrity and long-term thinking come together for the public good.
I want to be someone who champions ethical finance from within
Becoming an ACCA member remains my proudest achievement. It brought clarity to the role that I want to play in the finance sector, which is to be someone who fosters transparency, understands the interconnectedness of systems, and champions ethical finance from within.
‘Integrity is doing the right thing, even when no one is watching’ is my favourite quote. That thought has been my compass from the beginning and remains so today. I carry it with me in everything I do, especially on the more challenging days.
When I am not at the office, I find balance through exploring Oman’s beautiful landscapes. My curiosity also extends to sustainability, behavioural economics and the potential of digital finance to reshape how we think about value.
