Alchemy Uncensored

Transformation isn’t just a buzzword. It’s the difference between keeping up and truly leading.

This week on Alchemy Uncensored, Lewis Elsey sits down with Tarek Sayed, a transformational CFO whose 20+ year career has spanned four continents and some of the world’s most dynamic organisations, from General Electric to Mastercard and Majid Al Futtaim Ventures.

From overhauling finance systems to reshaping global teams, Tarek shares the real work behind transformation, what it takes to drive change across borders, redefine leadership in the region, and why today’s CFOs must evolve beyond the numbers.

This episode is a must-watch for finance professionals, senior leaders, and anyone navigating transformation in a fast-changing world.

You can also listen on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or visit our website at www.alchemysearch

How do you fast-track your career from audit to CFO and thrive in a high-growth, PE-backed business abroad?

This week on Alchemy Uncensored, Lewis Elsey is joined by Josh Burton, CFO at Skybound Wealth Management and a chartered accountant who's spent nearly a decade building his career in Dubai.

From navigating the leap from audit to industry, to driving transformation within a private equity environment, Josh shares sharp insights on career acceleration, leadership growth, and balancing ambition with well-being, even taking an 18-month sabbatical mid-journey.

This episode is a must-watch for finance professionals, aspiring CFOs, and anyone curious about life and leadership in the UAE

You did everything right. The job. The title. The wins.

But behind the success? Burnout. Pressure. Disconnection.

This week on Alchemy Uncensored, Conor McHugh is joined by Lucie Lachaux - a former CFO turned mindset and performance coach, and the founder of Changing Minds. Lucie has coached over 500 leaders across 15+ countries and is ranked the #1 LinkedIn creator in the UAE for Personal Growth & Productivity.

Together, they dive into the hidden cost of high achievement: burnout, identity loss, and the pressure to constantly perform. Lucie shares how leaders can sustain ambition while staying grounded, lead powerfully without overworking, and find real success — the kind that feels as good as it looks.

This episode is essential viewing for finance professionals, senior leaders, and high performers ready to redefine how they lead, think, and live.

How do you shape people-first cultures in an age of automation, agility, and constant change?

This week on Alchemy Uncensored, Conor McHugh is joined by Sneha Jain, a dynamic People Leader with over a decade of experience across global giants like Kellogg’s, Kraft Heinz, VFS Global, and now Havaianas (Alpargatas Group).

Sneha shares honest, sharp insights into what it really takes to lead HR today — from navigating the rise of AI and skills-based hiring to driving leadership transformation and building cultures that truly connect across borders.

Whether it’s coaching managers, driving employee engagement, or making bold moves with digital tools, Sneha brings a forward-thinking but deeply human approach to leadership.

Her message? You can’t build a future-ready workforce without purpose, empathy, and the courage to challenge outdated systems.

This episode is a must-watch for HR professionals, business leaders, and anyone building inclusive, high-impact teams in a fast-changing world.

What does it take to lead finance in both global corporations and fast-moving startups?

This week on Alchemy Uncensored, Conor McHugh is joined by Tina Kapadia, a seasoned finance executive whose career spans over 20 years at firms like KPMG, Visa, Mastercard, and now as SVP and Global Head of Finance at Moove.io.

With over two decades of experience, Tina shares hard-earned insights on building resilient finance functions, shaping business strategy, and leading teams across cultures and continents.

From navigating the pressures of high-growth environments to implementing change that lasts, she unpacks what it really takes to thrive at the intersection of finance and leadership. Her approach is rooted in mentorship, collaboration, and the belief that a strong culture is the foundation for sustainable success.

Whether you're in a startup or a corporate setting, Tina’s perspective will leave you motivated to lead with intention, inspire your team, and embrace change as a catalyst for growth.

This episode is a must-watch for finance professionals navigating high-growth environments, leading global teams, or seeking to build culture while driving results.

How do you stay ahead as a senior leader in a world that never stops evolving?

This week on Alchemy Uncensored, Conor McHugh is joined by Mario Barili, a global finance and operations executive with a career built on adaptability and forward-thinking leadership.

From the leadership lessons rooted in sport to the rise of AI in finance and navigating the modern career landscape, this episode is packed with real talk and sharp insights for executives and future leaders alike.

This episode is a must-watch for finance professionals, senior executives, and future leaders looking to stay one step ahead.

What if surviving a business crisis could make you unstoppable as a leader?

In this episode, we dive into exactly that with returning guest Ralph Khoury — international CFO, mentor, and crisis leadership expert. From steering companies through global disruptions to building his own wellness and e-commerce brands, Ralph reveals what it really takes to lead with clarity, resilience, and vision.

Conor explores with Ralph how finance leaders can build a powerful personal brand, mentor the next generation, and turn obstacles into defining moments. Plus, hear exclusive insights on Saudi Arabia's growing finance scene and why being authentic is the ultimate leadership edge.

This one is packed with bold insights for CFOs and future leaders ready to rise.

Reaching the top in finance takes more than just numbers — it takes vision, leadership, and global perspective.

In this episode, we speak with Ignacio Anglada, an international finance executive and former Group CFO at Juiphar Pharmaceuticals, a publicly listed company on the Abu Dhabi Stock Exchange.

Ignacio shares what truly defines a high-impact CFO, his journey across global markets, and the pivotal career moments that shaped his leadership. We explore the kind of culture a CFO should aim to build, and why the most meaningful parts of the job often go beyond the financials.

This episode is packed with insights for aspiring CFOs, finance professionals, and business leaders looking to elevate their impact.

You can also listen on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or visit our website at www.alchemysearch.ae.

Strong collaboration between departments is essential for any high-performing organization. In this episode, Conor McHugh sits down with Maher Sabbagh, a senior HR executive with over 20 years of experience across APAC, Africa, and the Middle East, to explore how people-centric leadership drives real business impact.

Maher shares valuable insights on the importance of internal and external networking, how to promote a truly engaging and positive culture, and why alignment between HR, Finance, Sales, and leadership is key to long-term success.

Whether you're a business leader, HR professional, or part of a cross-functional team, this episode is full of practical strategies and thought-provoking ideas you can apply right away.

You can also listen on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or visit our website at www.alchemysearch.ae

#leadershipdevelopment #hrstrategy #businessculture #leadershipinsights #collaborationmatters #hrpodcast #uaelife #uaejobs

Think HR is just about policies and paperwork? Think again.

In this episode, we’re joined by Jennifer Gillespie, an experienced HR leader with over 20 years across the UK, Singapore, and Dubai. Jennifer’s career spans industries like banking, oil and gas, property, water technology, and supply chain—bringing a wealth of insight into what truly shapes a high-performing workforce.

We explore the power of a strong CFO–CPO relationship, the impact of growth vs. fixed mindsets in organisations, and what the future of the workplace looks like—from AI and blended teams to evolving roles. Jennifer also shares her leap into entrepreneurship and what drove her to launch her own HR consulting business.

From transforming workplace culture to preparing for future roles — this episode delivers key takeaways for leaders ready to grow.

You can also listen on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or visit our website at www.alchemysearch.ae

Reaching the top in the corporate world comes with its own set of challenges, especially for women in finance and business.

In this episode, we sit down with Elena Overchuk, COO at Kyndryl, a global leader in IT infrastructure services. With 20 years of international experience, Elena specializes in business transformation and women’s leadership, particularly in the MEA and CEE markets.

Elena shares key career strategies for women aiming for C-Level roles, the differences between working in MEA/Dubai vs. European markets, and her approach to developing women leaders in organizations. We also discuss the best career advice she’s received and the books that have shaped her leadership journey.

This episode is filled with valuable insights for aspiring female leaders and finance professionals looking to make an impact.

Taxation is evolving fast, and staying ahead is critical for businesses and finance leaders. In this episode, we sit down with Dr. Peter, a global tax expert with 44+ years of experience and the UAE Ministry of Economy's (via the ACCA) subject matter expert on UAE corporation tax.

Dr. Peter shares his insights on the ever-changing tax landscape, the challenges tax professionals face in the UAE, and what CFOs need to know when hiring tax talent. We also explore the essential skills for tax professionals, the impact of AI on taxation and business operations, and best practices for working with the FTA.

This episode is packed with expert advice and practical insights for CFOs, finance leaders, and tax professionals looking to navigate the complexities of today’s tax environment.

If you're an aspiring CFO, this episode is a must-listen! We’re joined by Zuned Bharuchi, a seasoned CFO and Chartered Accountant with over 25 years of experience across industries like logistics, energy, biopharma, and more.

Zuned shares his expert perspective on what it takes to be a modern CFO, how the role has evolved, and why finance transformation is critical for success in 2025. From navigating new markets to leading high-performing teams, his insights offer valuable lessons for aspiring CFOs and senior finance leaders alike.

Tune in as we break down finance transformation, strategic decision-making, and the skills that define today’s top CFOs. Packed with actionable advice and expert analysis, this episode will challenge the way you think about the future of finance.You can also listen on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or visit our website at www.alchemysearch.ae

#CFOPlaybook #FutureCFO #FinanceTransformation #Leadership #BusinessGrowth #FinancePodcast #CFOInsights #UAEFinance

If you’re in the finance world, this episode is a must-listen! We’re joined by Youssef Salem, CFO of ADNOC Drilling and the youngest CFO to make waves on Nasdaq and ADX. With a career leading billion-dollar deals and shaping MENA’s top unicorns, Youssef shares his expert insights on Islamic Finance what it really means and how it’s evolving.

We explore the fundamentals of Islamic Finance, why interest is such a debated topic, and how it fits into today’s business world. Packed with fresh perspectives and expert analysis, this episode will challenge what you think you know.

If you’re a recruiter, HR professional, or jobseeker, this episode is for you! Hisham ElSaied, a chartered MCIPD member and certified coach with 18+ years of experience in Fortune 500 companies across MEA, shares his expert insights on the future of hiring.

We dive into the interview process, with tips to help candidates and recruiters excel, discuss the growing role of AI in recruitment, and examine digital discrimination vs. fair selection practices.

Packed with practical advice and real-world stories, this episode offers everything you need to prepare for the future of recruitment and HR.

If you’re a jobseeker in the UAE, this episode is a must-listen! Weam Kamel, Director and Head of Abu Dhabi Operations, and Lewis Elsey, Principal Consultant at Alchemy Search share their expert advice on how to stand out in the competitive UAE job market.

They discuss the key differences between Dubai and Abu Dhabi job markets, offer tips on nailing your interviews, and reveal what recruiters really look for in candidates.

We also explore what’s coming for 2025—what roles are in demand, emerging hiring trends, and how you can stay ahead of the curve. Whether you're an expat looking to relocate or someone wanting to make the next big career move in the UAE, this episode is packed with everything you need to know.

In this episode of Alchemy Uncensored, we’re joined by Sheena Ganesh, a seasoned CFO and finance leader with over 25 years of experience across the Middle East and Africa. Hosted by Lewis Elsey, Sheena shares her expertise on the pivotal role corporate governance plays in shaping successful organizations. She provides valuable insights into how corporate governance has evolved across the Middle East and why the composition of the board of directors is integral to effective governance. With her extensive experience and deep understanding of the finance landscape, Sheena offers practical advice and thought-provoking reflections for finance professionals and business leaders looking to enhance governance within their organizations. This episode is packed with actionable insights that are not to be missed.

In this episode, we’re excited to feature Babita Ganeriwala, CFO of TRACTEBEL Middle East, as she shares her incredible journey and over 15 years of experience in finance and leadership. A Chartered Accountant and an accomplished professional, Babita offers valuable perspectives on navigating the challenges of today’s business world.

Babita discusses the evolving role of women in finance, the crucial balance between emotional intelligence and IQ for effective leadership, and how to approach career transitions with confidence. She also shares her thoughts on the impact of emerging technologies like AI in shaping the future of finance.

Her insights are both empowering and practical, making this episode a must-watch for professionals at any stage of their careers.

In this episode, we’re thrilled to welcome John Ioannou, where he shares his extensive expertise on creating psychologically safe workplaces and empowering people to unlock their full potential. With over 35 years in leadership across multiple industries. Join us as John explores the transformative power of psychological safety. He discusses the effects of toxic environments, the importance of building a foundation of trust, and how leaders can create and sustain a workplace where team members feel valued and respected. John’s insights offer practical steps to foster growth, engagement, and resilience—key elements for anyone looking to lead with purpose and empower their teams to succeed. This is a must-watch episode for leaders and professionals committed to building impactful, high-performing teams.

In this episode of Alchemy Uncensored, we’re joined by Sher, Group CFO of Phoenix, as he unpacks the essentials of cryptocurrency with host Weam Kamel. With a background at KPMG and experience across Europe, Sher offers deep insights into crypto's appeal, exploring topics such as Bitcoin, mining, stablecoins, and how these digital assets differ from traditional finance.

For newcomers, Sher shares practical advice on where to begin and how to identify credible crypto projects versus scams. Looking to the future, he weighs in on whether crypto is here to stay or just another passing trend, and he reflects on his own transition from traditional finance into the dynamic world of digital assets.

You can also tune in on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or visit our website at www.alchemysearch.ae

#Cryptocurrency #Bitcoin #CryptoFuture #DigitalAssets #UAE

In this episode, we welcome Adnan, Group CFO at Select Group. With extensive experience in prominent firms across various sectors where he brings a wealth of knowledge about the financial landscape.

An episode that focuses on critical insights into investment timing and the potential for market corrections, offering a comprehensive view of what investors need to consider.

Join us for a thought-provoking conversation that reveals effective strategies for navigating the intricacies of real estate investment. We also highlight the significance of cultivating high-performing teams and how impactful leadership can steer success in this dynamic sector.

In this episode, Ashfaque Patel, Group Head of Tax at the Landmark Group, shares his extensive experience in the tax industry, offering invaluable insights into building high-performing teams and fostering a positive workplace culture. He discusses what it truly means to prioritize people in an organization and how effective leadership can drive success while ensuring team well-being. Join us for an engaging conversation as we explore key strategies for employee retention, the art of hiring, and the importance of mental health in the workplace. Ash also shares his thoughts on navigating the challenges that leaders face today and offers practical advice for the next generation of professionals.

In this episode, Chadi Farah, an expert in investment management and private banking, shares his vast experience working with family offices. He breaks down what exactly defines a "family office" and explains why they are crucial for managing wealth across generations. With a proven track record of establishing investment platforms and managing multi-asset portfolios, Chadi offers an insider’s look into this exclusive sector of finance.

Step into an engaging conversation led by Weam Kamel as they explore the key challenges family offices face today, from navigating complex investment structures to maintaining cost-efficiency and more.

In this episode, Oleksandr Polishchuk, CFO of a sub-cluster within a UAE government defense company, shares insights from his remarkable career journey. At just 34 years old, he has achieved significant milestones, holding an EMBA from INSEAD and being a member of ACCA.

Engage with an enlightening discussion that reveals the challenges finance professionals face as they navigate their careers. Oleksandr explores the often-overlooked distinction between leadership and individual contribution, shedding light on why many in finance struggle with charisma. He addresses the fears that can hold professionals back—like confrontation and vulnerability—while providing powerful strategies for overcoming these barriers.

With a focus on the vital roles of Knowledge Capital and Social Capital, this episode uncovers how embracing vulnerability can transform leadership styles and foster authentic connections in the workplace.

Join us in this eye-opening episode of Unlocking Abu Dhabi as Weam Kamel, Principal Consultant at Alchemy Search and a key player in shaping the recruitment landscape in Abu Dhabi, shares her insider insights into the unique job market of the UAE’s vibrant capital. Weam uncovers essential truths about navigating Abu Dhabi’s recruitment dynamics, from understanding relationship-driven practices to tackling the challenges faced by finance and tax professionals.

Discover how the job market in Abu Dhabi differs from Dubai, learn the critical skills that set candidates apart, and hear Weam’s valuable tips on building meaningful connections. Whether you’re a seasoned professional or just starting your career journey, this episode is packed with knowledge and strategies that can help you unlock opportunities and achieve your career goals in Abu Dhabi. Don’t miss out on this essential guide to your future!

In this special episode, Conor McHugh, founder of Alchemy Search, joins Recruitment Unfiltered, hosted by Martyna Sikora, to share his journey and insights into how Alchemy Search is transforming the recruitment industry.

Conor dives into the importance of challenging the status quo and pushing boundaries to drive innovation in recruitment. Whether you're in recruitment, HR, or leadership, this episode is packed with valuable insights and fresh perspectives on what’s shaping the future of the industry.

Don’t miss out – watch the full episode now and let us know your thoughts in the comments below.

🔗 Catch the episode on:

• Alchemy Uncensored
• Recruitment Unfiltered by Martyna Sikora

Subscribe for more insightful content!

Join us for an eye-opening episode with Holger Schlechter, a finance powerhouse with over 15 years of experience in corporate finance, accounting, and M&A. Discover the game-changing career moves and insights that catapulted him to the top, and learn how technology is revolutionizing the CFO role. We reveal the latest on IFRS and its surprising impact on financial reporting, plus Holger's insider tips on building a powerhouse finance team and making it to the CFO position. Don't miss out—tune in to get the inside scoop on thriving in the fast-paced world of finance.

In this episode, we are thrilled to feature Saad Siddiqui, CFO of Mumzworld, who brings over 14 years of expertise, including his experience at two of the largest Big 4 firms in the UK. Saad takes us through his incredible career journey, sharing invaluable insights on how finance professionals can embrace opportunities, tackle challenges, and elevate their careers. Saad discusses his path from the Big 4 to becoming a CFO, the top challenges CFOs face in today’s fast-paced world, and the evolving regulatory landscape. He also provides empowering advice on how to succeed in finance by never saying no to opportunities, and how this mindset can unlock your full potential. This episode is essential viewing for finance professionals who want to grow their careers and lead with confidence. Don’t miss out on Saad's inspiring advice and practical tips!

Join Conor McHugh, owner of Alchemy Search, as we explore the latest trends and key developments in the tax market for Q2 2024. In this video, we cover the recent fluctuations in tax placements, including a notable increase in tax-related roles this quarter. We also discuss the current demand for Corporate Tax and Transfer Pricing specialists, the growing preference for UAE experience, and the rising importance of soft skills in the tax sector. Additionally, we look at the current trends in hiring and the impact of upskilling and reskilling on the tax landscape. Get the insights you need to stay ahead in the tax industry. Don't forget to subscribe for more updates and in-depth reviews!

Dive into our Q2 2024 review at Alchemy Search, where we reveal the major highlights and significant developments over the past quarter. We’ve observed a surge in first-round interviews from Q1 to Q2, marking a significant rise compared to Q2 2023. Our placement data shows a strong start to 2024 with notable changes in the second quarter. We also analyze job trends across experience levels, shedding light on shifts in junior, mid-level, and senior roles. Industry trends are highlighted, focusing on top fields, key roles, and their significance in Q2 2024. The finance sector remains dominant, with insights into availability and relocation trends. Stay tuned for our upcoming video on the latest trends in the tax market.

In Season 2, Episode 13 of Alchemy Uncensored, we explore the crucial interplay between tax and ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance). With the recent introduction of Corporate Income Tax in the UAE, understanding the synergy between tax policies and sustainable practices is more relevant than ever.

Our guests, Mary from EY MENA and Seema from Network International, bring their expertise in tax policy and ESG to discuss how tax incentives, transparency, and stakeholder scrutiny shape corporate sustainability.

Tune in to learn how integrating tax and ESG considerations can drive sustainable value creation and mitigate risks in today's business landscape.

In this insightful discussion, we are thrilled to have Bikash Prasad, President and CFO of Olam Agri, join us. With over 25 years of experience in the global environment, Bikash brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to the table. Together, we explore key topics currently shaping the finance industry, including the evolving role of traditional finance and the future of finance itself.

We cover the rise of sustainability and ESG, the role of CFOs in these areas, and the use of digital tools and AI in finance. Bikash also shares strategies for leading a diverse global finance team and offers top guidance for new CFOs and Finance Directors.

Join us for a straightforward and practical conversation packed with insights to help finance professionals stay ahead in a fast-changing field.

We're joined by expert guest Ralph Khoury, often dubbed as the "Crisis Financial Officer" for sharing invaluable strategies for navigating and thriving during economic challenges.

This episode is packed with essential insights to fuel your professional journey. Discover effective methods for evaluating cultural fit in candidates and uncover untapped talent sources for recruitment. Get personalized career advice for young professionals and gain inspiration from real mentoring success stories and more.

We are honored to be with the three incredible finance leaders: Alia Saleh, Polina Gancheva, and Saveta Celar. Alia is the Finance Director of Southeast Asia and the Middle East at ISG, with over 15 years of experience in corporate finance, risk management, financial modeling, and data analysis. Polina is the Finance Director of Crayon, Middle East and Africa, with 15+ years of experience in the technology industry, specializing in FP&A, strategy, controllership, financial reporting, and risk management. Saveta is the Group CFO & Strategic Advisor of Inc. Solutions, with over 15 years of experience in financial management for both emerging and developed markets. In today’s episode, we explore the experiences of women in the finance sector, the professional challenges they have overcome, the importance of selecting the right company and the role businesses play in fostering diversity. Additionally, we explore the complexities and opportunities of networking in the UAE and the significance of finding supportive professional communities.

We're joined today by Ciarán McBreen, who is a certified executive and performance coach with 2b Limitless, he is a school wellbeing adviser, an author and a mental health podcast host. Ciarán has created a platform for thousands of people to flourish, develop self-belief, feel empowered and reach their true potential. Ciarán has sparked the ‘life’ into the lives of many.

In today’s episode we’ll be discussing the how staff wellbeing impacts performance, common challenges faced in balancing work and personal life, signs of mental health struggles in staff, workplace culture strategies to support wellness and performance and more.

Another Tax Episode with our very own Rutika Hardikar, a specialist in tax recruitment at Alchemy Search, which is a niche Finance and Tax recruitment firm based in Dubai. Our special guest, Hadeel Biyari, is the first Saudi Indirect Tax Partner in the KSA market, she is leading the KSA Indirect Tax Controversy and Litigation practice and is also the KSA Talent Leader. She brings in 17 years of experience in Indirect Tax, Finance and Accounting and she initiated her career at Saudi Aramco. Today’s podcast is focused on the rapidly changing tax landscape in Saudi Arabia, and we will be taking you through the practical aspects on how it is impacting businesses, trending tax topics and how it is like to live and work in Saudi Arabia. You may also listen to Spotify, Apple Podcast and our website at www.alchemysearch.ae

In this episode, we have Bhavya Kumar who is a Managing Director & Partner at Boston Consulting Group Middle East with extensive leadership experience in strategy and management consulting. Discover the varied paths into consulting and the essential steps to prepare for success. We'll explore how self-awareness and skill development play key roles in shaping a fulfilling career in this dynamic field. Join us for practical insights and guidance to kickstart your consulting journey.

Join us for an insightful discussion on navigating the evolving tax landscape with Nilesh Ashar, a seasoned tax partner at FTI Consulting in the UAE.

Learn about preparing for changes in the competitive tax market, global tax practices, and the role of AI. Gain valuable insights into team building, workplace flexibility, and tips for job seekers.

Tune in for expert advice from Nilesh's 25 years of experience in tax across India, UK, and the Middle East.

In today's episode of our tax series podcast, we're excited to welcome and chat with Stuart Ramsay. Stuart has nearly 16 years of experience working in tax, and has spent the last 10 of those years in the UAE.

Some of the points that we'll be discussing are the views on the current tax landscape versus 10 years ago in Dubai, Pros and Cons of consultancy versus in-house, What he looks for in candidates i.e. what skillset is needed/should be considered when moving in-house and how it is very different being on the inside, Tax technology and more.

Don't miss out on this enlightening discussion that promises to demystify the tax landscape and empower you with knowledge!

In this episode, we will be discussing relocating to Dubai, in particular we will focus on – “What to prepare for when planning a move to UAE?” “What to do when looking for a job in UAE?” and “How to set up here in UAE?” We are joined with our special guest, Caiman Mangan. Originally from Ireland, Caiman is a fully qualified chartered accountant, relocated to Dubai in August 2023, and is currently working as an Accounting Team Lead with IFZA. You may also listen to Spotify, Apple Podcast and our website at www.alchemysearch.ae

In today's episode, we will be discussing a fascinating journey with our guest Sachin Jain, who is an industry leader with more than 18 years experience and is working as a Group CFO for one of largest African conglomerates with a presence in more than 10 geographies. From his extensive career, predominantly in Africa, we'll uncover the realities of living and working on the continent. We'll compare the nuances of working for large multinationals like Coca Cola and Mondelez to their current role in a family group at Janus Continental Group.

To cap it off, our guest, who has a profound passion for leadership, will share invaluable lessons learned throughout their career and shed light on what makes a good leader.

In this episode, we will be covering topics from Vishal’s recent appointment as A&M’s UAE Tax practice leader, Insights into the current tax landscape and what companies are commonly looking for advice on the increase in demand for an in-house tax professional and what this means for tax consultancies , why KSA is an attractive place to be and the future of tax technology. Vishal Sharma is the Managing Director and Tax Practice leader of Alvarez & Marsal Middle East. In his role, Vishal will be helping to build out A&M’s tax capabilities across the UAE & Middle East region and partner with clients in navigating the ever-changing tax landscape. We hope this podcast will provide you with some useful tips and advice. You may also listen to Spotify, Apple Podcast and our website at www.alchemysearch.ae

In this insightful review of the 2023 market, we explore key distinctions between the UK and the UAE, shedding light on the unique trends that shaped the hiring landscape. Discover which industries witnessed the most significant recruitment activity, gain valuable insights for job seekers navigating the market, uncover expert tips to thrive in the competitive job scene and much more. Join us as we break down the nuances of the 2023 recruitment journey, offering a comprehensive perspective on the evolving job market in the UAE.

Dive deep into the transformative journey as we revisit the essence of each episode in this Alchemy Uncensored Podcast Recap. Join us for candid conversations, unfiltered insights, and the alchemical blend of wisdom shared throughout our podcast series. Discover the highlights and relive the magic that unfolded in every episode. Get ready to rediscover the power of uncensored alchemy!

In today’s episode we will be covering several topics from Nas' journey to Dubai, Commodity trading and why the industry is booming in Dubai, Mentoring the next generation of CFO and the Clifton Strengths Finder Nas is a chartered accountant by profession currently serving as the Chief Financial Officer at Licena Group - a physical commodity trading company based out of Dubai. Nas is also a Clifton Strengths certified coach.

We are joined today by Steve Drake, Co-Founder and Partner at Middle East Advisory Partners, an organization established in the UAE supporting UAE, regional and international clients deal with the challenges faced in scaling businesses.

In today's episode, we will be discussing what Steve has seen from his rich experience happen again and again in small businesses. So if you’re a small business, you don’t want to miss hearing it from the expert himself.

In this episode, we had the privilege of speaking with Tariq, El-Titi, the managing director in Janus Ventures.

We have discussed on Tariq's career starting out as an Accountant in the UK, before moving to the UAE 20 years ago, his role in the evolution of the healthcare space in the UAE, his current work with start ups, the world of venture capital and much more.

Join us for this enlightening episode!

You may also listen to Spotify, Apple Podcast and our website at www.alchemysearch.ae

In this episode, our guest speaker Dinesh Jangid is a Managing Partner at Uniqus which is a tech-enabled global platform that offers ESG and Accounting & Reporting Consulting by leveraging high-performing global talent. Tune in together with us as Dinesh shares the importance of consulting firm in the market and advices the listeners on how relevant is the ESG for accountants.

We have the pleasure to be joined by Thomas Vanhee who is founding Partner of Aurifer, which is a boutique tax firm based in Dubai and Riyadh.  

In this episode, we dive deep into the ever-evolving world of taxation, with a focus on the Middle East. Our expert guest speakers share their insights into the latest trends, regulatory changes, and challenges facing businesses in the region, and more.

Today, we're flipping the switch and taking a detour from the usual buttoned-up, serious conversations of our past episodes.

We've got our fantastic team and this episode is going to be like a backstage pass to the everyday shenanigans that go down in my office.

We're about to peel back the curtain and show you the unfiltered, behind-the-scenes chaos and camaraderie that keeps this ship afloat.

In this episode, we’ll be talking about, Alchemy Team recruiters’ story, 2023 Market Recap and we'll be answering questions from our podcast’s followers.