Employee Highlight: Annie Hsu

Like a compass guiding a ship through stormy seas, a financial controller navigates an organization through economic challenges. Turning raw financial data into gold, a financial controller is the alchemist of the business world. Annie Hsu, our steadfast controller, has consistently provided a clear direction, ensuring our financial course remains steady.

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First Part: Annie at ARSGEM   

• Briefly introduce yourself: What your role is at ARSGEM and how long you've been with the team.  

In my role as Controller at ARSGEM, I have been diligently managing financial records, maintaining regulatory compliance, and providing data-driven financial insights since May 2023. 

• What are some unique parts of your role at ARSGEM?    

One unique aspect of my role is having the opportunity to work with various departments; excited that the company will be implementing new software to enhance our financial reporting capabilities and being able to be part of it.  

• What are your favourite parts of your role and why?  

I am fortunate to work with such a wonderful accounting team. Each team member is unique and supportive, making it a pleasure to come to work every day. I also enjoy leveraging my analytical skills to extract valuable insights from financial data, which directly impacts the company's strategic direction. 

• How do you measure success for your role? What metrics did/do you use?   

I would measure my success based on two indicators: 1. The accuracy and timeliness of financial reporting, compliance with regulations, the effectiveness of financial controls 2. Employee retention within the accounting team. 

• How do you foster collaboration and teamwork within your team?   

I promote a collaborative and cohesive team atmosphere by fostering open communication and a supportive environment where everyone feels free to share ideas and address concerns. Regular meetings, team-building exercises, and acknowledging individual achievements all contribute to our team’s unity. Also, I set clear expectations, establish goals, and make sure each member’s strengths are recognized and roles are clearly defined.  

Our team is great! Besides having regular meetings, we often have events just for fun. Recently we went to a Karaoke and we had a great time together.  

• What are the most critical skills needed to excel in your position?   

Key skills for my role as a Controller include robust analytical and problem-solving abilities, effective communication and interpersonal skills, a keen eye for detail, and a comprehensive understanding of accounting principles and practices. 

Second Part: Annie's Philosophy  

• What would you say to a young student who aspires to become a financial controller? 

To become a good financial controller, I would recommend honing two skills from a young age: meticulous attention to detail and patience. As financial controllers delve into vast amounts of raw data to extract meaningful insights, a keen eye for detail is paramount. Even minor errors or oversights can have far-reaching consequences, from financial discrepancies to regulatory breaches. On the other hand, the ability to patiently navigate complex queries and guide others, often lacking financial expertise, is essential. When you empathetically understand their perspective, you can effectively bridge communication gaps and deliver valuable insights. 

• What attracted you to come into the finance industry? 

It's a funny story. When I was about 15 years old, my dad asked me what I would like to do when I grew up, and I answered "Anything but accounting!" Then I met a good friend in high school, who profoundly impacted me and my career choice. She was an extremely smart student yet with a pleasant personality. Her infectious enthusiasm inspired me to reconsider my career path. I soon discovered a hidden affinity for analyzing data and solving complex financial problems, leading me to pursue an accounting degree. 

• How do you stay updated on industry trends and best practices?   

I stay updated on industry trends and best practices by participating in professional organizations and subscribing to relevant publications. I also attend industry workshops and webinars and engage in networking opportunities. 

• What is your personal philosophy on success?   

My philosophy of success is rooted in the belief that it is not solely measured by professional achievements. Rather, it encompasses personal growth and making a positive impact on the lives of others. To achieve this, I prioritize setting meaningful goals, continuous improvement, and a balanced approach to work and personal life. 

• What are your core values in your life? 

Above all, stay true to yourself. You are an incredibly precious, wonderfully unique individual who deserves the same respect you show to others. Always treat yourself with kindness. From there, consider those around you—each choice you make leaves a mark, so aim to make a positive impact. Show others the same respect you have for yourself. 

• If you could have a conversation with any person (including historical figures), who would it be and why?  

I would talk to my dad who passed away 2 years ago. I miss him dearly. He was instrumental in shaping the person I am today, offering invaluable advice and unwavering encouragement. 

• If he is alive today, what do you think he would say to you now? 

(After a few moments to ponder) I think he would say "I love you very much". In Chinese culture, especially for my parents' generation, direct expressions of love were often unspoken and my father was not an exception. I always knew that he loved me profoundly although he barely spoke it. We were incredibly close, and during his final days in bed—during the recent pandemic—I often told him just how much I loved him.  

• What's a piece of advice you've received that has had a profound impact on your life?  

My dad, who always showered me with love as the youngest in the family, taught me from a young age about the importance of financial independence. It wasn’t about earning a huge income but about understanding how to make and manage money responsibly. This didn’t mean making a lot of money, necessarily; even a modest income can be enough if you know how to earn and manage it wisely. Life will have times, like during illness, when making money isn’t possible, and that’s when family support is key. However, in today’s capitalistic world, money’s influence is significant. For a better life and more freedom, financial independence, paired with smart money management, is essential. 

Third Part: More about Annie 

• What's the most interesting hobby you've ever picked up? 

It might sound a bit strange, but I actually enjoy going grocery shopping! 

• All-time favourite movie? 

Ghost (1990), The Sound of Music (1965) 

• Your favourite ice-cream flavour?  

Cookies 'n' Cream 

• Favourite colour?  

Purple 

• What's your favorite type of cuisine or dish?  

Japanese. I especially enjoy Kaisake (A traditional Japanese culinary style where a sequence of delicate, small dishes is carefully prepared). 

• What's your favorite type of exercise or physical activity? 

Right now, I walk a lot. I especially enjoy strolling at parks with great views. 

• Do you have any strange pet peeve? 

People cutting in line 

• If you can live anywhere (whether realistic or fictitious), where is it?  

Kyoto in Japan