- Shaping the future, House of Professionals leads human capital transformation in Pakistan
- Stock market gains reflect progress, yet economic competitiveness issues loom large
Interview with Mr Zia Ul Mustafa — President, House of Professionals
PAGE: Tell me something about yourself, please:
Zia Ul Mustafa: I am a management professional and corporate leader with over 25 years of experience across diverse industries. My areas of expertise include organisational development, strategy, operations, project management, financial stewardship, risk management, and corporate governance. I hold several prestigious qualifications, including being a Chartered Management Accountant (ICMA Pakistan), a Certified Management Accountant (IMA USA), a Fellow Financial Accountant (IFA UK), a Fellow Public Accountant (IPA Australia), and a Chartered Management Professional (ICMP USA).
Throughout my career, I have held key leadership roles in both regulatory bodies and the corporate sector. I served multiple terms as President of ICMA Pakistan and also led the South Asian Federation of Accountants (SAFA) as its President. My corporate experience includes C-level positions at Rustam Group of Industries, Descon Engineering Limited, Pakistan Expo Centres, and House of Professionals Inc.
I have also contributed as a Director at the Agricultural Development Bank of Pakistan, the Pakistan Institute of Corporate Governance, the Ignite National Technology Fund, and the Pakistan Institute of Public Finance Accountants. Currently, as President of House of Professionals, a management consulting and professional training organization, I continue to serve in leadership roles, including Chairman of the Strategic Board of ICMA Pakistan, Director at the Pakistan Institute of Public Finance Accountants, and Member of the BOG of the Institute of Taxation Pakistan.
I am also Chairman of the SAFA Committee on Governmental & PSEs Accounting, a Member of the CAPA Public Sector Advisory Group, and an active participant in global initiatives such as the IMA Leadership Academy USA and the PAIB Advisory Group of IFAC. My extensive international exposure, combined with strategic insight and leadership acumen, has enabled me to be an influential figure in both the corporate and public sectors. I am also a corporate trainer, public speaker, and author of numerous articles.
I attribute my success to a strong sense of courage, motivation, and a leadership style rooted in passion and integrity, which have driven organizational growth and transformation throughout my career.
PAGE: What is your perspective about micro-finance in Pakistan?
Zia Ul Mustafa: Microfinance in Pakistan holds immense potential for fostering financial inclusion and supporting small-scale entrepreneurs. Despite the challenges, such as limited access to rural areas, a lack of financial literacy, and regulatory hurdles, there are far more opportunities that outweigh these barriers. With the growing digital infrastructure and the rise of fintech solutions, microfinance institutions (MFIs) have a unique chance to reach the unbanked and underbanked segments of society. The demand for microloans, especially in the agriculture and small business sectors, remains high, presenting an untapped market.
Furthermore, with the government’s support for financial inclusion initiatives and increasing awareness about the benefits of microfinance, this sector is poised for substantial growth.
By addressing challenges strategically, Pakistan can turn its microfinance landscape into a vibrant tool for poverty alleviation and economic empowerment. By conclusion we can say while hurdles exist, the opportunities are abundant, offering a path toward inclusive growth and sustainable development.
PAGE: How would you comment on the use of information technology in banking sector?
Zia Ul Mustafa: The use of information technology in the banking sector has revolutionised how financial services are delivered, offering enhanced convenience, efficiency, and security. Through innovations such as mobile banking, online transactions, and digital wallets, customers now have 24/7 access to banking services, eliminating the need for physical visits to branches.
Additionally, IT has significantly improved data management and analytics, allowing banks to better understand customer needs and offer personalized services. Automation of routine tasks has also reduced operational costs and minimised human errors, improving overall service quality. However, the increased reliance on IT also brings challenges, including cybersecurity risks and the need for continuous upgrades to stay ahead of technological advancements. Despite these challenges, the integration of IT in banking is undoubtedly a game-changer, promoting financial inclusion and reshaping the future of banking.
PAGE: KSE 100 Index has made history by crossing the level of 82,000 points. What is your take on it?
Zia Ul Mustafa: The Pakistan Stock Exchange Index crossing 82,000 points is a positive reflection of improving macro-level indicators and increased investor confidence. This surge showcases the resilience of the economy, supported by favorable negotiations with international lending agencies that have bolstered market sentiment and financial stability. However, despite this upward momentum, the industry still grapples with the challenges of high costs and the ease of doing business. These factors continue to affect the broader economic landscape, especially in sectors that face high input costs and bureaucratic hurdles.
Addressing these issues will be critical to ensuring sustainable growth and translating stock market gains into real economic progress. In conclusion, while the stock market performance is a promising sign of recovery, tackling the core challenges of business competitiveness is key to maintaining long-term economic stability.
PAGE: What is your standpoint about the transformation of human capital in Pakistan?
Zia Ul Mustafa: The transformation of human capital in Pakistan is essential for the country’s progress and its competitiveness in the global market. At the House of Professionals, we are committed to people development, focusing on equipping individuals with the practical skills required to meet the challenges of the future in their respective fields.
Our key areas of focus include Information Technology, Engineering, Finance, Supply Chain, HR, Marketing, and various other disciplines of management. Pakistan is blessed with a pool of talented human resources, and our goal is to transform this potential into productive assets for the world market.
By training people in practical, industry-relevant skills, we are ensuring that they not only meet local demands but also contribute to global economic growth. Our mission is to empower individuals, enabling them to lead in their respective fields and face the future with confidence.