When a finance professional is suddenly asked to step into a leadership role, confidence does not always come automatically. For Sheryl Adducul-Baria, a Certified Financial Management Professional (CFMP®) and academic leader, the promotion came earlier—and more unexpectedly—than planned.
“Unexpectedly, I was appointed as the Head of the Department for Business Administration, Office Administration, and Entrepreneurship,” Adducul-Baria says. At the time, she was already serving as a full-time faculty member in the Accountancy Department and as a Research Coordinator. The appointment was an honor, but it also came with self-reflection. “This came as a surprise,” she admits, especially since she was still relatively new to the department.
Rather than relying solely on title or tenure, she felt the need to reinforce her foundation. “As a new member of the department, I felt the need to strengthen my portfolio—not for external validation, but to reassure myself that I am indeed qualified for this leadership role.” That internal motivation would shape how she approached both leadership and professional development.
Her confidence did not come from theory alone. Over the years, Adducul-Baria built experience across multiple industries, including wholesaling, entertainment, and overseas work as an accountant general. Despite the differences in sector, the responsibility remained consistent. “A shared responsibility across these roles was preparing and analyzing financial statements,” she explains. That repetition, across varying contexts, sharpened her judgment. “This extensive experience solidified my knowledge and skills, enabling me to support management with critical financial decision-making that drives organizational success.”
For her, financial management is not just technical mastery. It is a balance of competence and communication. “Building a rewarding career in financial management is all about blending technical expertise with strong interpersonal skills,” she says. Financial analysis, forecasting, and strategic planning are essential, but they only become effective when paired with leadership and clarity. “Equally important are effective communication and leadership abilities to clearly share insights and inspire teams.”
That mindset carries into how she views the future of the profession. Financial management, she believes, is no longer static. “Financial management is rapidly evolving to keep pace with technological advancements and shifting customer expectations.” Tools such as AI and real-time data are changing how decisions are made, but they do not replace accountability. “Financial leaders must adapt to these changes to remain relevant and drive their organizations forward in a rapidly evolving world.”
Leadership, for Adducul-Baria, is grounded in discipline and ethics. “I follow the rules closely but stay flexible to adapt when needed,” she says, emphasizing structure without rigidity. When advising student organizations, she reinforces responsibility early. “I require leaders to regularly share the school’s financial status to promote transparency and trust.” Ethics, she stresses, are not optional. “Ethics are the foundation of every decision I make. Being honest and accountable ensures trust and long-term success in managing finances.”
It was within this context that she pursued the Certified Financial Management Professional (CFMP®) designation—not as a badge, but as reinforcement. “I wanted to build solid proof of my skills and leadership in financial management, to assure myself and others that I’m truly qualified to embody the role of a department head.” The process demanded discipline, especially while balancing work. “The biggest challenge was managing time and staying consistent,” she recalls. But the result went beyond credentials. “Earning the CFMP® boosted my confidence and gave me new insights that help me lead better and make smarter financial decisions.”
Today, her advice to aspiring finance professionals is measured and grounded. “Stay committed, be patient with the process, and focus on learning—not just passing,” Adducul-Baria says. In her view, credibility in financial management is built quietly—through preparation, ethical leadership, and the willingness to strengthen oneself before leading others.
