Usman Anwar

Championing Financial Integrity and Strategic Vision

Usman Anwar

Chief Financial Officer,

Al Mabrooka Cement Manufacturing Company Limited

The global financial landscape today is characterised by rapid technological changes, globalisation, and evolving regulatory standards. CFOs face the challenge of adapting to these shifts while ensuring financial stability. Navigating them requires more than just financial expertise. It demands strategic vision, adaptability, and innovative problem-solving. Usman Anwar, Chief Financial Officer of Al Mabrooka Cement Manufacturing Company Limited (a subsidiary of LASHL UAE), epitomises these qualities and is effectively leveraging his experiences to drive the company towards sustainable growth. With nearly two decades in the financial sector, Usman’s journey began modestly as a student trainee officer. His early roles, including a crucial stint as a revenue analyst, laid a solid foundation in financial principles and reporting accuracy, preparing him for significant achievements across diverse sectors like FMCG, automobiles, IT, and cement. A pivotal moment in Usman’s career was his international assignment as a management accountant. This role not only expanded his professional horizon but also refined his ability to adapt to various regulatory environments and financial systems. His global experiences have sharpened his problem-solving skills, enabling him to tackle complex financial challenges with ease. As CFO at Al Mabrooka Cement—a subsidiary of Lucky Cement Pakistan—Usman oversees all finance operations with a focus on strategic oversight and operational efficiency. His proficiency in budgeting, forecasting, compliance, and SAP ERP systems highlights his ability to drive financial performance and organisational effectiveness. Usman’s leadership reflects his capacity to thrive in a volatile market, steering his company towards sustainable success. He shares insights on his journey and role with TradeFlock, illustrating how his career exemplifies the evolving role of the modern CFO.

What were some pivotal moments in your career progression?

One of the pivotal moments in my career was joining BMW as a senior accountant. This role marked a significant advancement and led to my swift promotion to finance manager within a year, highlighting my dedication and capability in handling increased responsibilities. At BMW, I learned to present financial data strategically to senior management, honing my skills in strategic communication and alignment with broader company goals. Another crucial milestone was my transition to Coca-Cola as the accounting manager for South Iraq, later expanding to oversee all of Iraq. This role challenged me to manage a diverse team, implement advanced financial systems, and integrate new technologies. This experience underscored the importance of innovation and agility in a competitive environment, positioning us as a leader in financial performance and technological advancement.

Can you share some of your most significant learnings over the past 20 years?

Over the past 20 years, several key learnings have shaped my approach as a CFO. One major insight is the significance of strong leadership and management skills. Early in my career, my leadership experience was limited, but roles at BMW and Coca-Cola taught me valuable techniques for managing diverse and dynamic teams effectively. Technological proficiency has also been crucial. Embracing tools like artificial intelligence, machine learning, and data analytics has transformed financial operations, making continuous learning and adaptability essential for staying competitive. Finally, strategic thinking has become central to my role. Aligning financial decisions with broader business strategies and industry trends enables informed decision-making that supports sustainable growth and profitability.

How do you balance your professional and personal lives?

Balancing professional and personal life is key to long-term success. I achieve this by meticulously scheduling tasks and setting clear boundaries between work and personal time. Early planning and prioritisation ensure that work does not intrude on family and personal activities. I also emphasise self-care and maintaining a healthy lifestyle through regular exercise, a balanced diet, and sufficient rest. This structured approach helps me stay efficient, motivated, and able to enjoy quality time with loved ones.

What challenges did you face, and how did you handle them?

One major challenge as a CFO is balancing the interests of shareholders and stakeholders. To address this, I prioritise active listening and open communication to align financial strategies with their goals. Technological advancements also pose challenges; I stay current by conducting workshops and continuous learning to integrate new tools effectively. The global financial crisis of 2008 was particularly tough, requiring strategic cost-cutting and liquidity management. This period underscored the importance of resilience and crisis management, shaping my approach to navigating complex financial landscapes and preparing me for future uncertainties.

How do you ensure the integrity of your financial team and broader operations?

Ensuring the integrity of financial operations is essential for building trust and maintaining transparency. I foster a culture of ethical behaviour and honesty within my team by emphasising the importance of these values and providing continuous ethical training. Implementing strong internal controls and regular audits—both internal and external— helps detect discrepancies and ensure compliance with regulations, allowing us to continually refine our processes. Leading by example is crucial; as CFO, I demonstrate ethical behaviour in every decision and action, setting a standard for the team. Encouraging open communication and providing a platform for employees to raise concerns further supports a culture of integrity and accountability

What advice would you give to aspiring financial leaders?

My advice to aspiring financial leaders is to stay adaptable and continuously learn. The financial landscape evolves rapidly, and embracing new technologies and trends is essential. Align your decisions with the organisation’s long-term goals and maintain a strategic mindset to drive growth and sustainability. Uphold integrity and ethical standards, as transparency builds trust with stakeholders. Develop strong leadership and people management skills; effective communication and empathy are key to motivating and guiding teams. Lastly, balance your personal and professional lives through careful planning and time management to ensure long-term efficiency and well-being.