Breaking Barriers in Finance: Asma Shahbaz’s Journey to Success as a Chartered Accountant

Difference Makers Podcast

Meet Asma Shahbaz, a Chartered Accountant from Pakistan who's breaking barriers and transforming the financial landscape. In a candid conversation, Asma shares her remarkable journey from a determined accounting student to a respected professional in process governance and business ops risk at Mashreq Bank. Discover the pivotal role that family support and a strong sense of self-belief have played in her climb to success. From her foundational experiences with Standard Chartered Bank and Habib Bank to the transition from external to internal audit functions, Asma's story is one of evolution and perseverance within the dynamic realm of finance.
The world of auditing and risk management is undergoing a seismic shift, thanks in no small part to the power of analytics. Asma and I delve into how comprehensive data analysis is reshaping the industry, moving beyond traditional sampling to extract deeper insights. We examine the challenges and rewards of adapting educational curriculums to include robust data analytics training. The conversation also navigates the nuanced waters of professional relationships, underscoring the importance of emotional intelligence and the distinct challenges observed between genders in stakeholder engagement.
As we wrap up, Asma's ethos on personal growth echoes as a source of inspiration. Her approach to balancing demanding professional roles with personal passions, such as fitness and art, shows the importance of creating space for oneself amidst a busy career. Asma's narrative encourages us to champion authenticity and mutual empowerment. Her contribution to financial services is a beacon for women everywhere, as is this conversation—a part of our Difference Makers series—where we honor those shaping the financial future.