Nirpendra Ajmera, known as “Nick,” has navigated an inspiring journey from India to Canada, overcoming significant challenges and achieving remarkable triumphs in the Internal Audit industry. His story is a testament to resilience, adaptability, and the power of effective networking.
Early Influences and Career Beginnings
Nick’s career in Internal Audit was significantly influenced by his father, a chartered accountant. Growing up, Nick was inspired by his father’s dedication and expertise in the field, which motivated him to pursue a similar path. After earning a bachelor’s degree in commerce, Nick became a chartered accountant in India in 1999. He quickly established himself in the industry, gaining valuable experience in internal audits, risk management, and compliance.
The Move to Canada
In 2003, Nick made the bold decision to immigrate to Canada. This move was driven by both personal aspirations and professional opportunities, as Canada was enacting legislation similar to the Sarbanes-Oxley Act in the United States, known as Bill 198 or “C-SOX.” This presented a new and exciting frontier for Internal Audit professionals.
However, the transition was not without its challenges. One of the most significant hurdles Nick faced was the requirement for Canadian experience, which he lacked as a newcomer. This common barrier for immigrants often creates a frustrating paradox: without Canadian experience, it’s difficult to get a job, and without a job, it’s impossible to gain Canadian experience.
Overcoming Initial Challenges
Nick’s determination and strategic networking played crucial roles in overcoming this obstacle. He understood the importance of building a professional network in his new country. He attended industry events, joined professional associations, and connected with peers and potential mentors. His patience and persistence paid off when he secured his first job with a small restaurant group. This opportunity, directly related to his field, allowed him to demonstrate his skills and work ethic.
Building a Successful Career
With his foot in the door, Nick’s career in Canada began to flourish. His extensive experience in Internal Audit, IT audits, SOX compliance, and Enterprise Risk Management (ERM) functions quickly became evident. He successfully led critical projects across multiple industries, including utilities, manufacturing, telecom, and IT sectors. Nick’s ability to adapt his expertise to various industries set him apart from his peers.
His commitment to collaboration, communication, and accountability enabled him to build strong relationships with stakeholders at all organizational levels. Nick’s technical knowledge, combined with his strategic thinking and problem-solving skills, allowed him to provide meaningful insights into complex issues.
Career Highlights and Recognitions
Throughout his career, Nick has achieved numerous milestones and received significant recognition. He has consistently delivered projects with high client satisfaction, earning peak ratings and accolades. For instance, his first employer in Canada awarded him the premier employee award, recognizing his exceptional performance and dedication.
Moreover, Nick’s multi-source feedback has been outstanding, resulting in over twenty LinkedIn recommendations from clients, managers, and peers. These recommendations highlight his professionalism, expertise, and ability to drive successful outcomes.
Future Aspirations
Looking ahead, Nick aspires to become a Board Member of a company with a strong commitment to sustainability. He envisions continuing his work as a thought leader and influencer in the Governance, Risk, and Compliance (GRC) arena. Nick plans to publish papers, participate in conferences, and share his knowledge to contribute to the industry’s growth and development.
Additionally, Nick remains committed to continuous learning and upskilling. He understands the importance of staying abreast of industry trends and advancements to provide the best possible value to his clients and organizations.
Nirpendra Ajmera’s journey from India to Canada is a powerful narrative of overcoming adversity and achieving professional excellence. His story underscores the importance of resilience, effective networking, and adaptability in navigating career challenges. Nick’s contributions to the Internal Audit industry are significant, and his future aspirations aim to further influence and shape the field. As he continues to excel and inspire, Nick remains a testament to the potential within every determined professional.
Published by: Martin De Juan
