For Rey Maligalig, the decision to transition into Australian accounting in 2021 was more than just a career move—it was a leap of faith. At the time, he was working in an offshoring company servicing clients from Australia. Inspired by the balance, mentorship, and opportunities in that environment, Rey decided to pursue certification through the National Institute of Accounting Technicians (NIAT).
“I took Part 1 Certified Bookkeeper and Part 2 Registered Cost Accountant certification exams in March 2021,” he recalls. “It was one of the best decisions in my life. The work experience itself inspired me to grow professionally.” That step would later open international opportunities and eventually lead him overseas as a Senior Accountant and Account Manager, now handling three companies.
Career Challenges and Turning Points
Rey’s story was shaped by resilience during uncertain times. In early 2020, he was being considered for a promotion to Team Lead, but the COVID-19 pandemic disrupted everything. “Though there was verbal communication about the role, the official announcement only came in September 2020—by then, I had already filed my resignation,” he says.
Rather than see it as a setback, Rey treated it as a reset. He started from scratch as an Australian bookkeeper working with diverse clients. That risk paid off, building his expertise in AU accounting and setting the foundation for his global career.
Growing Through Mentorship
From the start, Rey recognized the importance of mentors in shaping his career. As a fresh graduate, he faced the challenge of meeting strict deadlines and understanding complex tasks. “I had to work overtime just to keep up,” he recalls. But with the guidance of his first mentor, Ms. Karen C. Delgado, he learned the discipline of taking notes, managing deadlines, and asking the right questions.
Later, his AU mentor, Alicia Chau, instilled in him the value of integrity and leadership. “If you don’t know the task, ask. If you commit mistakes, acknowledge them. Be accountable, apologize, and fix it,” Rey shares. From her, he also learned that good leadership means empowering others to take responsibility and grow through their own experiences.
Integrity and Purpose
Integrity remains Rey’s guiding principle. “As an accountant, integrity is first above all else,” he emphasizes. For him, accounting is not just about compliance but about character—how one acknowledges mistakes, supports colleagues, and delivers value with honesty.
His passion also lies in helping startups thrive. With a startup success rate as low as 10%, Rey finds fulfillment in supporting small businesses as they manage payables, receivables, financial reporting, and process improvements. “It’s been fulfilling to make a real difference in guiding them to achieve their goals,” he says. He credits Gab Golla, one of his clients, for entrusting him with responsibilities that allowed him to add tangible value.
Passing It On
Today, Rey pays forward the mentorship he once received by training junior colleagues. Known as a patient and collaborative team player, he shares his knowledge generously both in the workplace and with former colleagues who reach out for advice. “Being patient and thorough helps others build a solid foundation,” he explains. For him, teaching is as much a part of growth as learning.
Lifelong Learning
Rey believes that continuous learning is the only way to stay relevant in the profession. Beyond staying updated with accounting standards and new tools like AI, he invests in further education. “I am currently enrolled in Six Sigma Certifications and other business courses,” he shares. This commitment to professional development ensures that he not only adapts to changes but also impacts others with his evolving skills.
Certification as a Gateway
Rey credits NIAT certification as a turning point in his career. “I pursued it to validate my skills and to build my credibility,” he explains. The certification boosted his confidence to apply abroad, eventually leading him to his current overseas role. “NIAT really opened doors to global opportunities. It’s such a blessing.”
His advice to aspiring professionals is straightforward: “NIAT certification is definitely worth it. Start investing in yourself by taking the certification. It validates your skills and puts you on the right path.”
Looking Forward
From late nights meeting deadlines as a fresh graduate to leading multiple companies overseas, Rey Maligalig’s career reflects resilience, mentorship, and unwavering integrity. His journey shows that with the right mindset and continuous learning, even setbacks can become stepping-stones to success.
For Rey, accounting is more than a profession—it’s a calling to create value, lead with integrity, and help others grow.
