What time do you usually wake up on weekdays? 

I start my day at 5:30 AM. I believe that waking up early provides me with the time and space needed to plan effectively, ensuring I begin the day with focus and energy. 

How do you spend the first hour of your day? 

The first hour of my day is reserved for my personal well-being. I like to always start my day with gratitude, reflecting on everything I am grateful for. This practice reminds me of the important things in life and sets the right tone to head into my day with a positive mindset. 

What sparked your interest in finance? 

My interest in finance was sparked by a passion for problem-solving and analysing numbers. Early in my career, I had the privilege of working under an audit partner who recognised my potential and introduced me to my first business book, Rich Dad Poor Dad by Robert Kiyosaki. This experience ignited my enthusiasm for business and set me on a journey that revealed finance as more than just working with numbers—it was a powerful tool for making impactful decisions and driving business growth. 

Can you share some career highlights and defining moments? 

I was a key player in both the operational and strategic teams, guiding one of our companies in our group from its startup phase to achieving breakeven within 18 months. Another defining moment was leading a project that involved developing a new business and product—from ideation through concept development to market launch. These experiences have underscored the importance of resilience and adaptability in achieving success. 

How do you handle professional challenges? 

I believe challenges are an opportunity to grow. My approach involves staying calm, understanding the problem in depth, and creating a structured plan to resolve it. Effective communication and collaboration with my team have been essential to overcoming obstacles. I view challenges as a puzzle that sharpens my skills and strengthens the company. 

What future goals are you excited about? 

As the newly appointed CFO of TRT Industries, I’m particularly excited about driving the company’s growth into new markets as we embark on our PAN African expansion projects. Personally, my long-term goal is to lead TRT as CFO, contributing to its strategic growth and operational excellence. 

Have you had any international or different cultural experiences in your career?  

Working at Safran Helicopter Engines (French owned company) provided me with the opportunity to work with diverse teams across Europe and other parts of the world. The cultural diversity within these teams has taught me the importance of flexibility, empathy, and the value of diverse perspectives in making well-rounded decisions.  

What key skills should a newly qualified accountant develop on their path to becoming a CFO? 

Aspiring CFOs must go beyond technical accounting skills and cultivate a strategic mindset. It is essential to understand the broader business context, enhance communication capabilities, and become adept at managing risk. Most importantly, they must demonstrate resilience, leadership, and the ability to inspire and guide their teams effectively. 

How do you balance your personal and professional life? 

Maintaining work-life balance can be challenging, but I prioritize my schedule to ensure quality time with my family, particularly my five-year-old child. It is important to understand your negotiables and non-negotiables—for instance, the bedtime routine with my child is a non-negotiable for me. I also make sure that my weekends include activities that help me recharge. 

What are your interests outside of work? 

Outside of work, I enjoy spending quality time with family and friends. I have a passion for reading, particularly books on psychology and business, as they provide insights into human behaviour and strategic thinking. Traveling, whether locally or internationally, is also a favorite pastime—it allows me to unwind and step away from the demands of daily life.  

How do you contribute to the development of others in your field? 

I am a firm believer in the power of mentorship. I dedicate time to mentor young finance professionals, offering guidance and sharing experiences to help them grow. 

What advice would you give to someone aspiring to be a CFO? 

Embrace continuous learning and be prepared to tackle challenges head-on, as these experiences often provide the most valuable insights. The financial landscape is constantly evolving, making adaptability essential. Build a strong network, seek out mentors, and take calculated risks—these actions will distinguish you and accelerate your career progression. 

What’s your favorite quote or mantra? 

Nelson Mandela once said “After climbing a great hill, one finds that there are many more hills to climb. I have taken a moment here to rest, to steal a view of the glorious vista that surrounds me, to look back on the distance I have come.”

This quote serves as a constant reminder to appreciate the journey. It encourages me to take a moment to reflect, acknowledge the progress made, and be grateful for where I am in life. While it’s important to savor the journey and the milestones, I remain focused on the summit and the goals that lie ahead.  

Share your favorite leadership lesson. 

The best advice I received was, “Your value is not just in what you know, but in how you inspire others.”

This taught me that leadership is about empowerment—helping others become their best selves.  

What’s something surprising about you that isn’t in your business bio? 

I enjoy cooking and preparing hearty, home-cooked meals for family and friends. There’s something special about bringing people together over good food, as it truly is a way to connect and create lasting memories.  

What’s your favorite non-business app on your phone?  

Spotify. I enjoy listening to motivational podcasts and music to unwind.  

If you could have any superpower to help you in your job, what would it be? 

I would choose mind-reading as my superpower. It would give me the ability to anticipate stakeholder needs and craft strategies that are aligned with their expectations, ensuring we stay ahead of the curve. 

What’s your go-to strategy for staying productive during long workdays? 

I break the day into focused work sprints with short breaks in between. This keeps me energised and prevents burnout.  

If you could relive one day from your professional career, which day would it be and why? 

The day I got confirmation of my official appointment as CFO stands out. It was the culmination of years of staying true to myself, hard work, determination, and overcoming doubts—an incredibly fulfilling moment.