Where I am today: Yusuf Ahmet CA on inspiration and advice
Yusuf Ahmet CA, Director at Baringa Partners, qualified as a CA in 2016, after training with EY. As part the ICAS Gold Dust Career Insights Series, Yusuf reveals his inspiration and how he hopes to shape the financial world for the future.
Yusuf joined award-winning management consultancy practice Baringa Partners LLP, to help clients navigate through uncertain times with continuing regulatory scrutiny, capital pressures, compressed profit margins and cost constraints.
Growing up, Yusuf did not have a privileged background but he was fascinated by financial services, and attended a college presentation by Navin Kaul, a partner within EY’s Financial Services Corporate Finance practice, which led to a work experience opportunity at EY.
"I was so impressed with his character that he inspired me to apply for the EY FS Graduate Programme," said Yusuf. "With a first-class degree in Accounting and Financial Management from the University of Surrey, I secured a place to study for my CA qualification."
Success isn’t all about having a fancy car, an expensive suit and regular holidays.
What inspires you?
My grandparents came from Cyprus, literally with nothing but an empty suitcase.They worked all their lives to give my family the opportunities they never had. The most inspirational person for me has been my grandfather, who I am fortunate enough to be named after.
Success isn’t all about having a fancy car, an expensive suit and regular holidays. It is about being able to make an impact in the world, making society better and leaving a legacy.
What career advice do you have for others?
I have three pieces of advice. The first was given to me by the CFO of a top investment bank: “Never stay too comfortable.” There are so many opportunities to stretch yourself, develop your skills, widen your experiences and reach your true potential, but it’s only when we become too comfortable that we tend to stagnate.
No matter what the situation, stay true to your ethics and values.
My second piece of advice is – don’t underestimate the power of networking. I wouldn’t be where I am today without it. People change jobs all the time, but your network and reputation will stay with you. The world is a lot smaller than we like to think.
Thirdly, stay true to yourself. No matter what the situation, stay true to your ethics and values. I can’t stress this enough, but I’ve seen so many people become consumed by the world of business and regretting it later in their careers. If you want to make it to the top, make sure it’s still you at the top.
What are your aims for the next 10 years?
I’m very passionate about the banking and capital markets industry and will no doubt continue to work in this space. I envisage a very different world in 10 years’ time and hope to look back as a partner knowing that I helped shape the market and left my footprint in leading investment banks.
