Zayd Khalid Maniar discusses his leadership at Crowe and professional career

Zayd Khalid Maniar, the Managing Partner of Crowe in the UAE, is well-known for building trustworthy bonds with his clients and also driving growth to the company with his adept leadership style. With profound years of experience in various industries, he is committed to upholding the highest ethical standards in client and stakeholder interactions.

In an interview with the Crowe executive, Zayd briefly shares the various aspects of his professional career, his journey so far, the challenges he faced and overcame, how he balances personal and professional life, his vision, values, turning point in his career, and a piece of advice for young aspirants.

Can you tell me about yourself and your career journey so far?

I am a Chartered Accountant from the Institute of Chartered Accountants in England and Wales with nearly 20 years of experience at Crowe. Currently, as a Managing Partner, my role involves maintaining positive client relationships, driving new services, and developing strategic goals and policies for the firm.

My background includes an A-level from the City of London Freeman's School, an Economics degree from the University of Reading, and training at Shipleys. I also hold a fellowship with the Institute of Chartered Accountants in England and Wales.

What inspired you to pursue your current profession?

My passion for the financial and business sectors inspired my career path. Over nearly two decades, I've enjoyed solving complex financial problems and guiding a large team. I’m committed to my professional growth and involved in initiatives promoting the ACA qualification, fostering talent, and using strategic thinking to make a difference in businesses.

What have been the most significant challenges in your career, and how did you overcome them?

The fast-evolving professional services industry, with advancements in technology, shifting client expectations, and economic fluctuations, has been a challenge throughout my career. One significant challenge was managing the firm's growth and global expansion while maintaining high standards of service. To overcome this, I built a strong, adaptable team and embraced technological advancements.

Balancing work with personal life has also been difficult, but by prioritizing, delegating, and setting clear boundaries, I’ve learned to maintain a healthy balance.

Can you share an example of a project or task that you're particularly proud of?

One project I'm particularly proud of is expanding Crowe presence in the UAE. This involved aligning the firm with Crowe Global and navigating local and global regulations. It required both visionary leadership and execution, strengthening our position as a trusted advisory firm.

How do you balance personal and professional growth?

I believe in finding harmony rather than striving for perfection in my personal and professional life.

Professionally, I focus on continuous learning, setting goals, and pushing for innovation. Personally, I prioritize self- care, family, and personal growth, ensuring that my life outside of work nurtures my well-being. Effective time management and a supportive network help maintain balance.

What role has mentorship played in your career development?

Mentorship has significantly impacted my career. Early in my journey, I had mentors who helped me shape my leadership approach. They emphasized the importance of focusing on long-term goals and being adaptable. As I've grown, I've also mentored others, paying it forward, which has been equally rewarding. Mentorship has shaped my resilience and helped me build strong professional relationships.

How do you approach decision-making in high-pressure situations?

In high-pressure situations, I stay calm and focused, gathering all relevant information before making decisions. I ensure that I consider both short-term and long-term impacts, trust my team, and prioritize transparency. I believe in collaborative decision-making and staying adaptable, allowing for changes if needed.

What values guide your professional and personal life?

The core values guiding both my personal and professional life are integrity, innovation, and continuous growth.

Integrity is fundamental to maintaining trust and credibility. Innovation drives me to stay ahead of industry trends, and I encourage creativity within my team. Continuous growth keeps me motivated, ensuring that I am always evolving. I also value giving back to the community by participating in initiatives that create opportunities for others.

Can you describe a turning point in your career that shaped your current trajectory?

A key turning point in my career was recognizing the value of innovation in the professional services sector. The industry's rapid evolution in technology and client expectations pushed me to embrace change and focus on driving forward-thinking solutions. This shift in mindset has shaped my leadership and strategy and is a foundation for where I am leading the firm today.

What advice would you give to someone starting in your field?

For anyone starting in this field, I recommend focusing on continuous learning and adaptability, as the industry is always evolving. Building strong relationships and networking is crucial, as trust and credibility are essential for success. Also, developing technical skills along with leadership and communication abilities will set you apart in your career.

How do you stay motivated when faced with setbacks?

When faced with setbacks, I focus on resilience and learning. I view challenges as opportunities to grow and stay adaptable. The strong leadership and values demonstrated in the UAE inspire me to stay focused on the long-term vision. A strong team is also vital to overcoming setbacks together. Embracing change and maintaining a mindset of continuous improvement helps me stay on track even in difficult times.

What are your long-term goals, both professionally and personally?

Professionally, I aim to continue leading and growing Crowe, ensuring it remains at the forefront of innovation in audit, tax, and advisory services. I also want to expand our global presence while maintaining high standards.

Personally, I seek a balanced life, continuing to learn, giving back to the community, and making a positive impact. I am inspired by the leadership in the UAE and aspire to contribute to the region's development through both professional and philanthropic efforts.