Professional Experience:
With over 24 years of progressive experience in finance, compliance, and operations management, I have established a solid track record of providing strategic financial leadership for international NGOs, intergovernmental organizations, and multinational entities across the Asia-Pacific region. My expertise spans financial governance, audit and compliance, budgeting, forecasting, systems implementation, administration, human resources, and donor management, with a strong commitment to transparency, accountability, and organizational efficiency.
Currently serving as Regional Director of Business and Program Operations – Asia Pacific at Internews, I oversee financial management for more than 30 active projects funded by diverse donors including the US Government, NORAD, FCDO, the European Union, GAC Canada, DFAT, and other international agencies. I lead budget development, forecasting, and amendments across complex, cross-border portfolios, ensuring alignment between programmatic goals and donor regulations. I also manage both internal and external audits, including end-of-project funder audits such as those by the EU, ensuring timely responses, accurate documentation, and implementable recommendations that enhance compliance culture and operational integrity.
My role at Internews also involves regional oversight of seven country offices across Asia-Pacific, where I ensure full compliance with national labour laws, tax regulations, and donor requirements. I have successfully established systems and processes to ensure efficient financial reporting, robust asset and inventory management, and cost-effective procurement oversight. Working remotely across UK, US, and Asia-Pacific time zones, I coordinate closely with global stakeholders to deliver timely financial updates, support proposal submissions, and swiftly address emerging issues. My colleagues and supervisors consistently commend my responsiveness, reliability, and practical problem-solving skills, particularly in high-pressure and remote work environments.
Previously, as Head of Finance and Procurement at WWF Malaysia, I led the migration of the organization’s accounting and procurement systems from manual processes to an integrated ERP platform, significantly improving efficiency, reducing administrative workload, and strengthening internal controls. This transformation positioned the finance unit as a strategic business partner rather than a processing department. I also played a key role in standardizing financial and procurement policies, leading tender processes, monitoring audits, and ensuring full compliance with donor and national regulations. My leadership was instrumental in reinforcing good governance and transparency within the organization.
Earlier in my career, I gained extensive experience with UNDP, ASEAN Secretariat, and the International Islamic Liquidity Management Corporation, where I honed my expertise in budget formulation, trust fund management, audit coordination, and inter-agency financial collaboration. These roles provided me with deep insight into the operational and compliance requirements of large-scale, donor-funded development programs.
A registered accountant with a Master’s in Financial Management from the University of Indonesia, I combine technical financial proficiency with strategic vision and operational understanding. My career has been defined by a consistent ability to strengthen systems, enhance accountability, and support mission-driven organizations in achieving their goals through sound financial stewardship and ethical governance.