5 Minutes With… Savitha Raman
Savitha is one of Accela’s wonderful finance team leads. She has a meticulous eye for detail, a warm way with clients, and loves to cook some of her favourite recipes for the whole team.
Tell us a little bit about Accela and your role?
My role starts with onboarding new clients, helping to ease any of their anxieties and answer any questions they have. Our team manages accounting, payroll, payments, and compliance work for our clients. While maintaining their books, we keep an eye on their financial health.
What aspects of your role do you enjoy the most?
When the clients come to me with their problems, I try my best to give them implementable solutions. I feel happy when the solution works for them.
What was the most unusual or interesting job you’ve ever had?
It was probably when I started doing SoX compliance back in India, it was a new regulation at that time, and I was working on the assignment during the beginning of my career. The work was quite extensive and I learned a lot from it.
What is one thing you couldn’t live without?
Professionally, I couldn’t live without challenges. Personally, I couldn't live without my son, who is the most lovable challenge!
If you could do another job for just one day, what would it be?
I would work in a childcare centre. I like to be with kids.
If you could invite anyone (dead or alive) to dinner, who would it be?
I would like to invite the whole Accela team over to my place!
What is the best book you have ever read?
My favourite author is PJ Woodhouse, and the book that I like most is Meet Mr Mulliner. It’s a collection of short stories about how Mr Mulliner entertains people with his tales.
What’s the most memorable meal you’ve ever had?
My family went on a trip to a hill station in India, and we sat out in the crisp morning air eating a delicious breakfast of Poori. I’ll never forget that moment.
Best advice you’ve ever received?
The best piece of advice came from my Dad. He said, whenever someone tells you something you don’t agree with, don’t disagree right away, as that will make them defensive and will lead to an argument. Ask them to explain more and gradually challenge their idea, and it will lead to a fruitful discussion.
Biggest achievement at work so far?
Right now with a completely new team we managed to complete the year end statutory filing for all our clients by July 31. It was a huge achievement, we chased everyone under the sun and got it done.
What’s on your bucket list of food and drink to try and places to visit?
There’s an Indian eatery at Raffles City shopping centre called Shahi Maharani. I just want to go back there because the ambience is wonderful. Maharani means queen and when you go there you feel like one.