
Season 2 Episode 14: Unlock CFO Success: Experts and Insights Revealed
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!
4 Sep 202449min

Tax Market Q2 2024 Review
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!
22 Jul 20244min

Q2 2024 - Quarter Review by Conor McHugh
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.
17 Jul 20245min

Season 2 Episode 13: The Interplay between Tax and ESG
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.
3 Jul 202436min

Season 2 Episode 12: Finance Forward: Navigating the Future with CFO Insights
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.
26 Jun 202459min

Season 2 Episode 11: Career Growth - From Experience to Expertise Insights
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.
12 Jun 202455min

Season 2 Episode 10: Empowered Women in the Finance World
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.
5 Jun 202449min

Season 2 Episode 9: Balancing Work, Wellness & Performance
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.
29 Mai 202451min






















