East Meets West: Pakistani Professional Journeys
§ The goal of this podcast is to provide stories and experiences of Pakistani professionals in their respective industries and to allow listeners to be more informed of their field of interest.
§ A common connection being Pakistani roots allows for relatable stories for individuals who are looking to grow in their profession or simply want to learn more about a particular field.
§ There will be no industry left untouched from start-ups, traditional careers paths or newer outlets such as podcasts, YouTube or side hustles. Join me as we explore the various careers that Pakistani professionals are working at in the West.
East Meets West: Pakistani Professional Journeys
S3 EP 16 | Senior Controller At Stage Vision | Ft. Shaikh Muhammad Farooq
In this episode of the East Meets West Pakistani Professional Journeys Podcast, we sit down with Shaikh Muhammad Farooq, a seasoned strategic finance leader with over 17 years of experience across Pakistan, the Middle East, and Canada. Farooq shares his professional journey, from his humble beginnings in Karachi to his significant roles in Saudi Arabia and eventual transition to a senior financial position in Canada. He discusses the importance of staying adaptable, continuous learning, and the critical role of credentials like CPA in advancing one’s career. Farooq also offers valuable insights into the intricacies of leadership differences across regions, the value of networking, and the importance of storytelling in finance. Join us as we explore his transition through various industries, his advice for aspiring finance professionals, and key lessons learned.
00:00 Guest Introduction: Shaikh Muhammad Farooq
01:13 Early Career and Education in Karachi
02:12 Navigating Post-Secondary Education
02:51 Entering the Professional World
03:22 Experience in Saudi Arabia
04:08 Transition to Canada
04:59 Advice for Job Seekers
06:22 Importance of Networking
07:08 Adapting to Canadian Work Culture
07:25 Pursuing CPA Certification
08:08 Leadership Differences: Middle East vs. Canada
10:28 Maintaining Interest in Finance
11:53 Role of a Financial Controller
13:01 Storytelling in Finance
15:08 Advice for New Immigrants
17:12 Key Skills and Habits for Success
19:04 Advice for Recent Graduates
21:27 Defining Success