What are the biggest lessons in your career so far?
Early in my career, I realized that staying rigid in processes or thinking would limit growth. Embracing change, whether through digital transformation (e.g. AI in auditing) or adapting to new compliance standards, has been crucial. Another key lesson is the importance of relationships both with clients and within the team. Trust isn’t built overnight; it requires consistency, transparency, and a genuine commitment to understanding clients’ needs. Similarly, fostering a collaborative team culture has been essential. A high-performing team isn’t just about technical skills but also about communication, mentorship, and shared accountability.
What are the challenges and opportunities of your role?
Challenges relate to regulatory and compliance complexity in Hong Kong’s evolving tax laws, AML requirements, and cross-border regulations demand constant vigilance. Clients rely on us to decode these changes while ensuring compliance doesn’t stifle their growth. There is also the issue of the accounting talent pool shrinking, with younger professionals seeking roles that blend technical work with strategic impact. Opportunities include digital transformation, which sees tools like AI-driven analytics enhancing audit accuracy and operational efficiency. Also, clients now seek CPAs as business partners, not just compliance experts. With Hong Kong’s roles as a gateway to China and the world, there is a growing demand for CPAs who understand multi-jurisdictional compliance and expansion strategies.
As the Director of Conpak, what are your current priorities?
One is enhancing client service. Rather than waiting for issues to arise, we aim to identify potential challenges early and offer strategic solutions. This proactive approach not only strengthens trust but also ensures our clients feel supported at every stage of their business journey. Secondly, fostering a culture of innovation within the firm is essential. We encourage our team to explore new ideas and challenge conventional thinking. This includes promoting collaboration across departments to share insights and best practices, which can lead to more effective solutions for our clients. We also emphasize the importance of continuous professional development.
What is your view on the best ways that CPAs can build trust with clients?
Trust is the cornerstone of the accounting profession, and building it requires consistent effort and integrity. Clients appreciate clarity, and it sets the foundation for a strong relationship. Additionally, proactive communication helps in addressing concerns before they escalate, reinforcing the client’s confidence in our expertise. Finally, delivering consistent quality in our services is vital. Continually meeting client expectations solidifies that trust over time, ensuring long-lasting professional relationships.
How has your CPA qualification helped you in your career?
The CPA qualification emphasizes ethics and professional conduct, which are crucial in building trust with clients. Understanding the ethical responsibilities of our profession has guided my decision-making and reinforced the importance of integrity in my work. The CPA network has also been invaluable. Engaging with fellow professionals provides opportunities for collaboration and learning, which are vital in an ever-evolving industry.
