When Marie Kristine Yambao-Celada looks back at her career, she sees a journey built on perseverance, adaptability, and a deep passion for finance. Starting as a working student while pursuing her Bachelor of Science in Business Management major in Operations, she learned early the discipline required to balance multiple responsibilities. That experience, paired with her natural interest in finance and operations, laid the foundation for her career as an accounting technician and finance professional.
Building a Strong Foundation
Her first major step came at Nonpareil International Freight and Cargo Services Inc., where she served as General Accounting Staff. It was here that Kristine learned the building blocks of accounting—bookkeeping, reconciliations, and data entry—that would serve as the backbone of her future career.
Later, she moved into more advanced roles, joining AHGLAB Consultancy Services Inc. as Finance Specialist and eventually becoming AR-Finance Supervisor. These roles introduced her to larger-scale financial operations, more complex systems, and the challenges of leading people.
Today, she stands at the helm as Co-Founder and Head of Finance at Oneengine Business Services Inc., where she applies her expertise not just in day-to-day accounting but in shaping financial strategy and driving company growth.
Overcoming Early Challenges
Kristine’s early challenges were no small feat. As a working student, she had to balance academic requirements with part-time work, testing her time management and perseverance. She also had to adapt to various accounting systems quickly, a task she overcame through self-study and by seeking guidance from mentors.
These experiences instilled in her the values she carries today: resilience, accuracy, and a commitment to continuous learning.
Leadership Grounded in Empathy and Results
Having worked across diverse industries—from freight and logistics to IT and consulting—Kristine has developed into a leader who values both results and people. “I believe in accuracy, transparency, and ongoing improvement,” she says, emphasizing that these values guide not only her work but also how she manages her team.
Mentoring is central to her leadership. At Oneengine, she makes it a priority to guide junior accountants and interns, sharing best practices and insights from her career. For Kristine, leadership is not just about overseeing operations but about building confidence and capacity in others.
Passion and Purpose in Finance
What fuels her passion is the role finance plays in building strong businesses. “Finance and accounting are the backbone of any successful business,” she explains. Seeing the direct impact of accurate financial management on company stability and growth reinforces her sense of purpose.
Even under high pressure, Kristine remains composed. She breaks down large projects into smaller, manageable steps and keeps communication lines open with her stakeholders. This structured approach ensures that stress is minimized and results remain consistent.
NIAT Certification: A Mark of Professional Credibility
A pivotal part of Kristine’s career has been her certification with the National Institute of Accounting Technicians (NIAT). “I wanted my competencies validated by a recognized professional body,” she recalls. Earning her Certified Bookkeeper (CAT Level I) credential not only boosted her confidence but also gave her credibility when transitioning into supervisory and leadership roles.
Her advice to aspiring professionals is clear: “Go for it early in your career. It builds a strong foundation of knowledge and professional standards that employers recognize and value.”
For Kristine, NIAT membership is not just about certification—it’s about community. She highlights the value of knowledge-sharing, continuous learning, and access to a supportive network of professionals that NIAT provides.
Continuing the Journey
Today, Kristine continues to grow by attending webinars, pursuing further certifications, and staying active in professional communities. She sees learning as a lifelong journey—one that keeps her sharp, relevant, and ready to lead.
From balancing studies and part-time work to co-founding her own company, Marie Kristine Yambao-Celada embodies the resilience and discipline that define great finance professionals. Her story is proof that with hard work, adaptability, and the right professional foundation, it’s possible to rise from humble beginnings to leadership at the top of the finance field.
