EY refers to the global organization, and may refer to one or more, of the member firms of Ernst & Young Global Limited, each of which is a separate legal entity. Ernst & Young Global Limited, a UK company limited by guarantee, does not provide services to clients.
Tell us about your career at EY.
I had an awesome career at Ernst & Young LLP (EY) and was fortunate to work in four different offices and complete four rotations in Cleveland, Washington, DC, London and the Bay Area.
I started my career in Cleveland as an intern. I was going to Case Western Reserve University for my Master of Accountancy and was offered a role after my internship, which set my career in motion. After I finished law school one of the partners with whom I worked closely put me up for a rotation in the National Tax practice in Washington, DC to work in the Capital Markets group. I learned so much by just sitting in the partners’ offices taking notes and listening to CFOs and heads of tax talk about their issues. I was then fortunate enough to do an international rotation in London working in financial services and the capital markets international tax space before moving to the Bay Area to explore tech.
I am proud to be an alum; it is an automatic stamp of approval that opens many doors.
Tell us about your role at CXApp. What about it energizes you?
I’m thrilled to take on the role of CFO at CXApp (NASDAQ: CXAI), marking a significant milestone as I step into the position of a public company CFO for the first time. This is not only a career-defining moment but also an incredible opportunity to lead the financial strategy of a company that’s revolutionizing workplace experience technology. CXApp is at the forefront of helping businesses enhance employee and customer engagement, and it’s exciting to be part of a team driving such impactful innovation. With its solid foundation and forward-thinking approach, CXApp is uniquely positioned for significant growth, and I’m eager to contribute to its future.
Being the CFO of a public company carries immense responsibility, from ensuring financial transparency to meeting the expectations of investors and stakeholders. Working alongside our visionary CEO, Khurram Sheikh makes this role even more rewarding. His leadership has been instrumental in CXApp’s success, and together, we’re ready to navigate the complexities and opportunities that come with being a public company. I’m excited to help guide CXApp through this new chapter and to play a key role in shaping its long-term success.
How did EY help shape your career journey?
EY gave me a solid foundation in tax, treasury and accounting. If it weren’t for my rotations, I likely would not have landed my job as a CFO or any of my subsequent jobs.
I also learned leadership skills from working on large audits. One of my big audits was so much fun I would return from DC to work on it while the team had budget. Thanks to the senior manager and partner on the engagement, it was an account that people wanted to work on.
I was able to observe great leadership styles by watching how the partners ran the offices. The Cleveland office at the time I worked there really felt like family. I cannot say enough good things about the partners there. This closeness on a team continued in both DC and London, and I think the experiences have influenced my management style.
What is the most valuable lesson you learned while at EY?
The most valuable lesson I learned was to develop and invest in talent. I tell some people on my team that they should be nipping on my heels to become the next CFO. Public accounting is like this by default so I am not put off by my team wanting my job or wanting to be a CFO. I see my job as helping them get there.
This lesson is linked to two of my most rewarding experiences at EY. When the partner in Cleveland helped me get the rotation in Washington, DC, that was a very rewarding moment and a testament to his faith in me. This moment will stay with me indefinitely and I try to pay it forward to my staff as they look for new experiences. I would say the same about going to London. These rotational spots were coveted roles so it’s not lost on me the amount of faith the partners had in me to do well at the next level. I hope I continue to pay it forward.
What advice would you give past you?
I am laughing and cringing, but I would say spend more time in audit! Dig deeper into the numbers as an auditor. It will suit you as a CFO and maybe even a CEO. Audit provides a solid foundation in financial reporting, expertise in risk management and controls and a knack for process improvement. All three are essential competencies for success as a CFO.