Argjent Ismaili
Head of Internal Audit Department
BPB Bank
During a recent conversation, Argjent Ismaili shared more on his experience at PwC Kosovo - while also providing valuable career and leadership advice.
What were your early years like?
My interest during studies was in finance and accounting and hence I decided to pursue a career in finance and accounting. Firstly I had two internships in the banking industry in Kosovo and then started my journey at PwC.
What drew you to PwC?
The year after I graduated with my accounting and finance degree I was able to get an internship with PwC. At PwC, I saw the great opportunity to learn and develop as a professional.
How was your experience at PwC?
PwC was a great place to start my career. Being at such an internationally recognized firm allowed me to interact with many different companies and different audit projects. In addition, I had the opportunity to work with great colleagues during this time.
Any lasting lessons from your time at PwC?
One of the most important lessons was the can-do attitude. Across industries and different clients, people had courage and confidence, as well as a sense of positivity when faced with new challenges.
Reflecting on your career at this point, what makes you feel the most proud?
I think I am someone who can easily adjust and adapt to different work environments, with the different roles during my professional career and I think this skill-set is becoming more and more important as AI transforms so much of the way we do things.
How would you describe yourself as a leader?
As a leader, I try to be a good listener and really try to stay connected to my team, since I believe teamwork leads to better outcomes.
What do you think is most important in leadership?
What I think is most important in leadership is to provide clarity of purpose, to motivate and guide the people around you towards a common mission.
What helpful career advice can you offer?
I believe it is very important to set a specific goal, but be flexible about the way you get to it. Learn the business that you are in, since I believe that everyone is a stakeholder in an organization, so you should try to understand the business you are part of and take every new opportunity to learn.
If you could go back in time and tell your 18-year-old self-something, what would it be?
There is no shortcut to hard work. You must stay disciplined and persist towards your goals.
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