In a fast-moving world shaped by digital transformation and global disruption, one thing is certain: the finance industry is changing—fast. And for young professionals hoping to thrive in this environment, standing still is no longer an option.
Just ask Ivory De La Cruz, Certified Management Accountant (Australia) and Customer Financial Services Senior Specialist at FedEx Singapore. With over 15 years of experience spanning logistics, tech, BPO, and shared services across the Philippines, Singapore, and the U.S., Ivory has seen firsthand how today’s most successful finance professionals aren’t just good with numbers—they’re flexible, curious, and future-focused.
In an interview with Financial Adviser PH, she shared the key lessons that have helped her stay competitive—and the advice she believes every young finance pro needs to hear now.
-
Learning Never Stops—Even After the MBA
Ivory is a strong believer in lifelong learning. From pursuing her MBA to continuously building technical skills, she sees education as an ongoing investment—not a checkbox.
“To stay relevant, I seek out learning opportunities all the time,” she said. “Whether that’s a formal course or a new project at work, I treat every challenge as a chance to grow.”
In today’s rapidly evolving industry, that mindset is essential. Finance professionals now need more than traditional accounting knowledge—they need to stay updated on automation tools, digital platforms, and emerging financial technologies.
-
Technical Skills Matter—But So Do People Skills
While technical competence is a given, Ivory believes communication and collaboration are the real differentiators.
“You can be great with data, but if you can’t explain your insights clearly or work well with others, you’ll hit a ceiling,” she explained.
She credits much of her success to learning how to present insights, lead discussions, and build rapport with both internal stakeholders and external clients. These soft skills are especially valuable in customer-facing roles and cross-functional projects, where relationship-building is just as important as reporting accuracy.
-
Digital Skills in Logistics Are a Must
Working in a company like FedEx—where logistics and finance are tightly interwoven—Ivory sees how digital tools are transforming the way finance operates.
“Automation and real-time data are changing how we manage billing, collections, and customer accounts,” she said. “You have to be comfortable using new platforms and interpreting fast-moving information.”
She encourages young professionals to embrace digital literacy, not fear it. Whether it’s learning a new ERP system or experimenting with dashboard tools, being tech-savvy is now a core skill in both logistics and finance.
-
Build Your Network—and Ask for Help
Ivory also stresses the importance of networking and mentorship. Throughout her career, she’s found guidance, encouragement, and opportunities by building relationships with colleagues, mentors, and industry peers.
“Sometimes all it takes is one conversation with the right person to open a new door,” she said.
For young professionals, she recommends attending industry events, joining professional groups, and being proactive in seeking feedback. Having a network not only accelerates career development—it also provides support during transitions or challenges.
-
Stay Open to Change—and Be Willing to Pivot
Ivory’s own career has spanned back-office finance, global account management, and customer financial services. Each move came with new learning curves—but also new growth.
“The best thing you can do is stay flexible,” she said. “Don’t limit yourself to one path. The industry is changing, and the most successful professionals are those who can change with it.”
The Bottom Line
If you want to future-proof your finance career, Ivory De La Cruz’s advice is clear:
Keep learning, build digital and people skills, and stay open to what’s next.
