Member story: Winny Li, Group Treasurer, PPD

1. Please provide a brief description of your career

I started my career as an accountant, initially with Arthur Andersen and then with Deloitte. After working in accountancy practices, I joined Viacom as a manager in the European finance and international internal audit team, where I was responsible for auditing controls and processes at the company’s different businesses, including MTV, Paramount, Nickelodeon and CBS, around the world. From there I moved to PPD where I have been working since 2006, initially as Finance Manager and then Finance Director. I eventually helped the company to set up a separate treasury function and became the senior director of treasury, and I am now the group treasurer. You can read more about my journey in to treasurer here.

2. What do you like about working in treasury?

For me, the best aspects of the role are being part of the company's strategic decision making, always planning for the future whilst dealing with ad hoc global challenges, and adding significant value to the organisation.

3. What advice would you give to someone thinking of taking an ACT qualification?

If you are a person who embraces changes, likes technology, enjoys future planning and would also like to help to formulate company strategic vision, then treasury is a good career for you! The ACT qualifications and ongoing membership help students to gain sound knowledge for the day to day role, while also providing soft skill training and opportunities for students and qualified professionals to be leaders in their organisations. 

4. What has been the most interesting project you have been involved in and why?

There have been so many interesting projects! I have been involved in a number of Merger and Acquisition related projects which I have really enjoyed. I was also involved in de-listing a company from the stock market, re-listing the company back in the stock market (IPO - Initial Public Offering) and recently the sale of the company. The most interesting experience for me though was to take on a secondment and live abroad for a year - I do think that by living in a new place you get to appreciate the culture and work environment in a unique way.

5. As someone who works four days a week, what three tips would you give to others on how to juggle working part-time with a busy role?  

1) Set a clear working schedule for you and for others who works with you, otherwise four days a week could turn into five or more days (if that is the case, why work four days a week?);

2) Critically evaluate your meeting calendar, assess what is truly required must have or good to do;

3) Prioritise your work load taking into account what is more time critical; and make sure there are sufficient back up during the day off. 

6. Who is your career hero?     

Sir Richard Charles Nicolas Branson. 

7. What is the best piece of advice you have ever been given?

‘If anyone else can do this, why don’t you think you can do it? In fact I am absolutely sure you can do better!’ This was given to me in the context of financial and treasury related work.

8. What member benefit do you use the most?

Attending events – which enables you to socialise with treasury colleagues. You gain so much experience and knowledge from this! 

9. What gadget could you not do without and why?

My Apple watch – providing the healthy discipline I need (otherwise too busy working to think about it).

10. What book are you reading at the moment?

‘Brief Answers to Big Questions’ by Stephen Hawking.