Derek Lai

With more than 20 years in accountancy, Derek Lai, a specialist in corporate restructuring for Deloitte China, has a list of achievements of which anyone could be proud. He has worked on restructuring, liquidation, receivership and financial monitoring engagements for entities in many jurisdictions, and provided forensic and investigative expertise.

He has also lectured, written for local and international publications, and held senior positions on professional boards and committees. His wealth of experience means his advice on training and career choices holds real weight.

'You need to be clear in your own mind about what you want. Decide on your goals and go for them. Hard work, enthusiasm and persistence will help you to get the most out of your career,' says Lai, the national operation officer and Southern China leader of financial advisory services at Deloitte.

Not surprisingly, Lai has definite requirements when he is doing the hiring. He expects candidates to be smart, but stable, in that they are ambitious and will not jump ship for the least reason. He also highlights qualities such as original thinking and a willingness to learn as important in a new recruit.

'Change is a fact of life and, therefore, continuous learning has to be a goal to manage risks, make the right decisions and achieve career success,' Lai says. 'That's why CPD [continuing professional development] is more important than ever.'

To that end, Lai regularly teaches CPA Australia courses on the areas in which he specialises and advises the executive committee on topics it should introduce. 'I want to pass on the kind of practical experience you can't get from a textbook,' he says.