What does the daily routine of the Finance department at Novaterra look like?
“Each day is different and brings its share of complexities to solve and opportunities to explore.”’
We take you behind the scenes of Novaterra. This month, discover what makes up the daily routine of the Finance department. And it’s safe to say that their days are anything but dull! Areff Atchia, Head of Finance & Administration, tells us more.
Hello Areff! First of all, please introduce your role and your team.
I am Areff Atchia, Head of Finance & Administration. The finance team consists of the following individuals: Stephanie Wong and David Cheung (Senior Accountants), Christel Theodore (Accountant), Karishma Gunga (Accounts Officer), Loretta Valapinee (Accounts Administrative), and finally Ashwanee Mohit, Shameem Khodabocus, Agnes Clement, and Poojeeta Udhin (Accounts Clerks). Together, we handle the accounting for the twelve companies within the real estate group.
Tell us, what is the daily routine like in the finance department at Novaterra?
The atmosphere can be very serious when you enter our offices… but we also have very lively days. So don’t think for a second that our daily routine is boring! Generally, on a typical day, we process and allocate invoices, prepare payments, handle VAT and other declarations. We spend a lot of time coordinating our work with other departments and providing them with the appropriate information. Lastly, we ensure that everything we do complies with accounting policies and procedures, while respecting AML/CFT laws (anti-money laundering and combating the financing of terrorism). In short, it’s a meticulous job, where we cannot allow mistakes to happen.
How does your department contribute to the company’s operations?
We are involved in every stage of a project, from its feasibility study to the start of its operation. We must ensure that the company has the necessary funds to start the project while paying the various contractors and suppliers on a monthly basis, until the project is completed. Our responsibility drives us to submit regular reports to all department heads so that they can monitor their budget and actual expenses.
What characterizes your department?
Above all, it is the shared goal of meeting deadlines and ensuring the quality of our product. I think it’s our unique blend of youth, experience, and diverse skills that makes all this possible. The team has fully embraced the demands of our profession and strives to meet them in order to provide our colleagues within Novaterra with top-notch service. Finally, we work hard, but we also have a lot of fun! I believe that’s essential to keep everyone’s motivation high.
What motivates you the most in your position as Head of Finance & Administration?
I would say the fact that each day is different and brings its share of complexities to solve and opportunities to explore. It’s truly motivating. Personally, I take great pride in seeing the younger members of the team progress day by day, eager to learn and improve themselves. Also, achieving the financial goals set for the year is always a true satisfaction.
Any final words?
It’s extremely rewarding to contribute to the different projects undertaken by Novaterra and the creation of Beau Plan. While making our contribution, we learn a lot along the way!”