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Syed Shah
Regional Financial Controller - APAC Travel Retail at L'Oréal
Professional Background
Syed Shah is an accomplished finance professional who blends an entrepreneurial mindset with a collaborative, business partner approach, showcasing a wealth of experience that spans across Asia. As a Regional Financial Controller for APAC Travel Retail at L'Oréal, Syed has honed his ability to navigate complex financial landscapes and drive profitable growth in a highly competitive sector. With a background that includes roles such as Financial Controller in the Consumer Products Division at L'Oréal and various key positions at ICI Pakistan, Syed has consistently demonstrated his capability to deliver results and add value to organizations of significant repute.
With an impressive track record, Syed Shah has succeeded in leading financial strategies that align with business objectives, enhance operational efficiency, and improve financial performance. He has a unique ability to bridge the gap between finance and business operations, fostering a culture of informed decision-making. This has made him a highly sought-after partner for C-suite executives and business leaders looking to leverage finance as a strategic asset.
His diverse career also includes pivotal roles such as Treasury, Budgeting, and Internal Controls Manager at ICI Pakistan, and Project Manager for Sell-side Due Diligence, where he led critical initiatives that ensured financial compliance and optimized resource allocation. With a foundation built on solid financial stewardship, Syed's expertise is complemented by his experience in internal auditing, which he gained as Internal Audit Manager at ICI Pakistan Limited, a key player in the AkzoNobel Group.
Additionally, his early career at Unilever Pakistan Limited as an Assistant Manager in Management Accounting and as a Supervising Senior at A.F. Ferguson & Co (PwC Pakistan) provided him with invaluable insights into financial management and client servicing, enriching his comprehensive skill set.
Education and Achievements
Syed’s educational journey is marked by rigor and dedication, beginning with his O Levels at Saint Michael's Convent School, where he laid a solid foundation in Accounting and Business Management. He furthered his education with A Levels at Karachi Grammar School, excelling in subjects such as Maths, Accounts, Economics, Business, and English.
Pursuing his passion for finance, Syed enrolled in the ACCA program, where he mastered critical subjects including Accounting, Auditing, Financial Management, Financial Reporting, and Taxation. He was able to refine his analytical skills and technical knowledge, which have been instrumental in his professional achievements.
Later, Syed obtained a BSc (Hons) in Applied Accounting from Oxford Brookes University. This degree equipped him with advanced analytical capabilities and a global perspective on financial issues, further enhancing his understanding of the complexities of the financial world.
His professional qualifications as a Chartered Accountant (ACA) from the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Pakistan further solidify his status as an expert in finance, making him well-prepared to tackle the challenges faced in today's ever-evolving business environment.
Achievements
Throughout his diverse career, Syed Shah has earned a reputation for delivering profitable growth and innovative solutions to financial challenges. He has led transformation programs that have streamlined financial processes, reduced costs, and improved the bottom line for reputable firms. By embracing technology and data analytics during his tenure at various organizations, he has been instrumental in implementing best practices in budgeting, forecasting, and strategic planning.
In his role as Regional Financial Controller at L'Oréal, Syed played a pivotal role in expanding the brand's footprint in the APAC region, leveraging his extensive financial acumen to drive initiatives that not only enhanced operational efficiency but also significantly contributed to the organization’s growth trajectory. His positive influence has been felt across the financial teams he has managed, inspiring colleagues to adopt a proactive and strategic approach to their work.
Overall, Syed Shah exemplifies a perfect blend of academic excellence and practical experience, making a meaningful impact in the finance industry. With his entrepreneurial spirit and business-oriented mindset, he continues to shape the future of financial management within the corporate space.
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Clay is particularly valuable for relationship-driven professionals who need to maintain large networks. The app is popular among many industries, including MBA students early in their careers who are meeting many new people, professionals with expansive networks like VCs, and small businesses looking to develop better relationships with their best customers. Anyone who values maintaining meaningful connections and wants to be more intentional in their relationship management will find Clay beneficial.
Clay offers competitive pricing in the personal CRM market. Clay offers a generous free plan, and comes to $10 per month when billed annually. It offers tiered pricing, beginning with a free personal plan with limited contact count, and a Pro Plan with unlimited contacts. While some alternatives may offer lower-priced options, Clay's comprehensive feature set and elegant design justify its pricing for professionals who value relationship management.
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