Head of Audit at Engro Fertilisers
From humble beginnings in Karachi to global leadership roles, this finance professional’s journey reflects grit, growth and purpose. With a solid academic foundation and international exposure, she has successfully balanced career and family. Now serving as Head of Audit at Engro Fertilisers and former Deputy GM at HBL, she offers insights on digital innovation, the evolving finance landscape, and mentoring the next generation of financial leaders.
Synergyzer: As a CA with 20+ years in audit and finance, what drives your passion for this field, and how has your education prepared you for it, especially in a male-dominated industry?
Mehreen Khalid: As a Chartered Accountant with over 20 years of experience in audit and finance, I’ve found my passion in internal audit, as it aligns closely with my personal goals. The role demands integrity, analytical thinking, and problem-solving, which I find both challenging and fulfilling. What keeps me engaged is the dynamic regulatory landscape, especially in banking. Having worked in the UK and Pakistan, I’ve seen how regulators push organisations to stay sharp. The high accountability for internal auditors means we’re often the first to face questions when things go wrong.
My education laid a strong foundation, even in a male-dominated industry. When I began my CA journey in 2002, I was one of only three women among 50 men. It was tough, but I learned not to underestimate myself or question my potential. Viewing men as allies rather than rivals has also helped; many have supported women’s entry into the corporate world. Learning to challenge assumptions with confidence has been vital.
These lessons have shaped my career, and I believe they can inspire other women to grow and succeed in similar fields. Confidence, curiosity, and resilience are keys to thrive in any field.
Synergyzer: You are the Head of Audit at Engro Fertilisers. How do you think companies, especially in Pakistan’s finance sector, can balance risk management with marketing investments during economic uncertainty, given challenges like inflation and currency fluctuations?
Mehreen Khalid: In Pakistan’s unpredictable economic landscape, effective risk management and strategic investment are essential components of successful marketing. The approach centres around staying true to our core products such as urea and DAP fertilisers which provide consistent revenue streams even during economic downturns.
In times of uncertainty, we implement flexible budgeting and recalibrate our strategies in response to the evolving market conditions. We conduct annual risk assessments and maintain a sharp focus on market trends to stay ahead. Ultimately, it’s about making informed decisions, staying agile, and keeping a long-term vision.
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Synergyzer: How do you view the current state of digitalisation in Pakistan’s banking sector? Are local banks keeping up with global trends, and what role could they play internationally?
Mehreen Khalid: I believe Pakistan’s banking sector is progressing in digitalisation, though at a slower pace than global trends. During my time in the UK, mobile banking was far more advanced than in Pakistan but in recent years, I’ve seen a clear shift. More people now appreciate the ease and convenience of digital banking. While banks are educating customers on safe digital practices, we still need stronger controls to reduce fraud, which remains a concern here. It’s encouraging to see efforts to raise awareness like cautioning against sharing information over the phone, but more needs to be done.
Globally, banks in cities like London and Dubai are using AI and robotics extensively. While Pakistan may take longer to reach that point, I’m optimistic. The goal is to strike a balance: adopt digitalisation while managing risks, ensuring a safer, more efficient experience for all.
Synergyzer: You have led teams and developed training programs. How do you approach upskilling your team to handle digital audit challenges and keep up with emerging risks, especially with AI now becoming a key player?
Mehreen Khalid: To equip my team for digital audit challenges and emerging risks, especially with AI gaining ground, I take a multifaceted approach. I create tailored development plans for each member, supported by in-house training and external programmes from the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Pakistan, focusing on digital and AI topics.
On-the-job training is key. We collaborate with our IT team to develop QlikView (Automated) scripts and use tools like Power BI to streamline audits and highlight key risk indicators. In today’s fast-paced landscape, staying agile is essential. We regularly update our audit plans to address new risks. For example, climate change has reshaped industries like fertilisers, affecting supply and demand. Auditors must stay alert and responsive. By blending formal learning, hands-on experience, and a proactive mindset, we’re preparing our team to meet the evolving demands of digital auditing.
Synergyzer: Having worked internationally, you bring a unique perspective. What do you think Pakistan lacks, apart from resources, to fully participate in the global digital economy? What changes or mindset shifts do you believe are necessary for the country to keep pace with global trends?
Mehreen Khalid: Having worked internationally, I feel Pakistan lacks the adaptability and forward-thinking needed to thrive in the global digital economy. Our pace of change is slow, particularly among some in the older generation and even some millennials. We also tend to focus on short-term gains over long-term planning. Take sustainability: countries like the UAE are making real progress, while we often overlook future impact in favour of immediate returns. This mindset needs to shift.
The cost of inaction is clear; our failure to manage natural resources like gas and electricity has led to current shortages. Those organisations that plan long-term are now better equipped to handle such challenges. To move forward, we must foster a culture of adaptability, innovation, and sustainable thinking. Embracing change is vital for a resilient economy and a better future.
Synergyzer: What message would you like to share with our readers?
Mehreen Khalid: To the Pakistani community, integrity and ethics matter in every aspect of life – be it in corporate roles, small businesses, or personal choices. It’s time we place greater value on professionalism and doing what’s right. To my fellow women, especially working mothers, I applaud your resilience. Keep striving, stay confident and trust in yourself and God’s guidance. Don’t let self-doubt stop you – your efforts truly matter.
