Ali Raza

A detail-oriented finance executive with over 20 years of international experience providing strategic, financial, and operational leadership across diverse markets. Demonstrated success in guiding businesses through startup phases in multiple global destinations, coupled with deep expertise in treasury management, financial governance, and cross-border operations. A refined communicator with strong interpersonal skills, adept at collaborating with stakeholders at all levels to ensure seamless execution of organizational objectives.

Recognized for resolute leadership, strong work ethic, and the ability to inspire teams to deliver excellence in complex and dynamic environments. Currently based in Karachi, Pakistan, serving as CEO of Blitz Advertising (Pvt) Limited, and as CFO and Chief of Group Treasury Functions / Regional CFO for BS UK Limited, BS FZE, BS Singapore, and Z2C Limited Mauritius, the parent company of the group.

Chief Financial Officer & Group Head of Treasury & Operations - Z2C Limited (Media, Advertising, Ecommerce, Marketing, Digital, Technology & Sports Group) - Karachi, Pakistan

(2014-03)

Working for a group is a franchise of Publicis Groupe one of the largest groups worldwide known for marketing and communications. It deals with providing marketing services to its multinational and local clients.

• Spearheaded the overall finance function, driving strategic planning to achieve organizational targets (e.g., Revenue, Operating Profit, and Expense Management).
• Led the Annual Business Plan, Long-Range Planning, and Financial Modeling processes, including budgeting, forecasting, and cash flow management, while implementing robust internal control systems.
• Provided decision support through in-depth financial analysis, including P&L analysis, value chain analysis, and ad hoc performance evaluations.
• Collaborated with leadership and regional teams to plan and execute major B2B sales initiatives and cost optimization projects, improving operational efficiency and profitability.
• Delivered comprehensive performance reports to the Board of Directors (BOD), including budget variances, revenue trends, operating expenses, and financial forecasts on a quarterly and annual basis.
• Managed cash flow planning, forex operations, tax compliance, financial transactions, and external audits to ensure financial stability and regulatory adherence.
• Built and maintained strong relationships with key stakeholders, including clients, suppliers, advisors, and statutory organizations (e.g., IRD, Banks), while coordinating with internal and external auditors for efficient audit processes.
• Oversaw Admin/IT and HR functions to ensure seamless internal process compliance and operational efficiency.
• Supervised and mentored finance teams, providing analytical support and reports to operational and functional teams for day-to-day activities.
• Raised $ 15 Million in financing through local bank to support business expansion.
• Increase revenue by 20% through effective cash flow management and investment in profitable opportunities.
• Reduced the trading cycle by around 15 to 20 days, freeing up $ 2m working capital.
• Mitigate exchange losses of 50% during a period of currency devaluation through proactive cash flow planning.
• Implemented ERP System, reducing financial reporting errors by 20% and improving operational efficiency.

Regional Chief Financial Officer - Bee Squared Group - Singapore, UAE, UK, Mauritius

(2023-03)

Bee Squared Group is privately owned group, headquartered in Singapore. Its subsidiaries operate in UAE, Pakistan, Bangladesh, United Kingdom and Myanmar in the space of Marketing & Communications. The group is expanding its business, investing heavily in startups related to Tech & Media.

• Oversee financial operations across multiple regions, including Singapore, UAE, UK, and Mauritius, driving compliance with IFRS and local regulations while ensuring alignment with the group's strategic goals.
• Lead the overall finance function, including Financial Statements (FS) preparation, OPEX & CAPEX management, and financial planning, optimizing resource allocation and enhancing financial performance.
• Implement and enhance financial processes and controls across regions, improving operational efficiency, transparency, and risk management.
• Manage cash flow planning and implement robust financial controls to ensure liquidity, prevent inefficiencies, and mitigate risks.
• Develop project plans and budgets for new investments, contributing to the successful launch of 2 tech and media startups, and driving sustainable growth.
• Oversee Intellectual Property (IP) recordings for the group, ensuring complete documentation and compliance with accounting standards.
• Liaise with KPMG Singapore and KPMG Lower Gulf for external audits, tax compliance, and adherence to ACRA and UAE laws, ensuring seamless regulatory compliance.
• Consolidate financials for subsidiaries under the group, streamlining reporting processes and improving governance.
• Maintain strong relationships with banks in the UAE to secure financing and optimize banking operations, while actively collaborating with cross-regional teams for seamless financial operations.
• Handle quarterly VAT return filings with the Federal Tax Authority (FTA) and coordinate with UAE authorities to ensure compliance with local laws and regulations.
• Winning the Output the of PKR AED 400k imposed by FTA through detailed explanations and compliance efforts
• Ensured smooth financial operations of the contact with the internal stakeholders

Chief Financial Officer - D' Hamidi Advertising - Pakistan

(2013-05 - 2014-03)

Founded in 1994 by Faraz Maqsood Hamidi and Adil Mirza (Late), The D'Hamidi Partnership is Pakistan's first independent brand and identity consultancy and a critically acclaimed ideas company serving a select group of clients across the Middle East, South Asia, and beyond.

• Overall responsibility to oversee Media cost Planning (Print Media), Channels management, Customers management, Funds / Treasury Management, Media Finance and Corporate Finance management, Compliance with corporate laws and regulation

MBA - Business Administration

M.Com - Commerce