Chin Howyan’s career trajectory in Ernst & Young (EY) is nothing short of remarkable.
The Kolej Tuanku Ja’afar (KTJ) alumnus began his career as an audit associate in EY, after graduating from the University of Exeter in accounting and finance. Little did he know that it was the stepping-stone to his meteoric rise in international finance.
He quickly ascended to the rank of senior manager, an achievement that is impressive given the hypercompetitive landscape in the financial hub of London.
This incredible feat was made possible due to his tenacity and diligence. He shares his story of achieving personal and professional fulfilment.
Of hurdles & glory – his ICAEW journey
Committed to excellence, Howyan took up the challenge to pursue a professional qualification in accountancy with the Institute of Chartered Accountants in England & Wales (ICAEW).
It is not uncommon for individuals to experience setbacks in their academic pursuits. Howyan initially obtained unsatisfactory marks for his mock papers. However, he viewed this stumbling block as an opportunity to learn and grow under pressure and time constraints.
A clear demonstration of his perseverance, this Kaplan student put in the work leading to his astounding success of scoring his professional papers.
Through Kaplan’s comprehensive study materials and expert guidance, he was able to overcome the challenges he faced and achieve his goals. Their innovative approach to learning, which includes immense resources and personalised support, gave Howyan the tools he needed to excel in his ICAEW studies.
Despite fierce global competition, Howyan’s dedication and hard work paid off when he won the prize for the notoriously difficult Strategic Business Management paper, thanks in part to Kaplan’s support.
With an ICAEW qualification – the world is his oyster. It helped him understand his current work better, and the options are endless – whether he ventured into corporate finance or risk regulation and other related fields.
Seeking out the necessary resources to succeed from Kaplan
Howyan enrolled in Kaplan – a global tuition provider of various educational programs – including ICAEW, with comprehensive learning strategies and structured courses.
Kaplan provides highly experienced tutors who are qualified in their respective fields. Many of the tutors have taken the professional papers themselves and are well-versed in techniques to maximise one’s success rate.
Howyan benefitted from the course as he obtained excellent coaching from the team at Kaplan, which helped him perform so well in his ICAEW papers. It was the start of his illustrious career with EY.
Thriving in a competitive and nurturing environment at EY
EY is one of the largest professional services firms in the world with an astounding presence in over 150 countries. It provides consulting, assurance, tax and transaction services for clients.
Howyan started out in the huge multinational firm as an audit associate in EY Southampton. After he obtained his ICAEW qualification, he was offered to join EY London in financial risks and regulation.
As an accountant having done audit in multiple industries, he possesses a unique skill set that makes him highly valuable to EY. His experience working in various industries, including manufacturing, defence, retail, and aerospace, has provided him with a broad understanding of the intricacies involved in each sector.
Furthermore, his ability to integrate knowledge and skills from different fields allows him to approach problems in a more holistic way especially in his role in finance regulation.
In a diverse workforce and environment that pushed him to scale the career ladder, Howyan phenomenally rose from an associate in EY Southampton to the coveted senior manager position in EY London.
He shared a delightful tradition at EY where they held celebrations across the region to recognise newly promoted individuals. This fostered a sense of belonging within the vibrant EY community.
Drawing inspiration from nature and friends
Howyan takes advantage of his time off work by embarking on adventures and traveling with his friends whenever possible.
He spent several days hiking in the stunning Dolomite Alps of Italy, where he was captivated by the majestic peaks. He had the opportunity to marvel at the mesmerising mountains in Norway.
He also engaged in wild camping with his friends and enjoyed the warmth of their companionship during many nights. Being surrounded by nature allowed him to connect with his inner self and satisfy his love for adventure.
No bounds, no limits
Despite the obstacles that he may have encountered in the past, one thing remains constant – Howyan’s dedication to do the necessary to succeed.
“Seize the chance: Effort breeds opportunity, while inaction breeds uncertainty.”
Howyan will continue to conquer greater challenges in his career and life, as he carries on with the same admirable fire and spirit that has led him to where he is now.
Learn from anywhere, at any time, with Kaplan.
