Tim Kroemer

Entity: Ecolog International
Position: Group CFO
Worked at PwC until: Nov 2017
Line of Service: Transaction Services (FDnA)

How would you describe your days at PwC?

I started my career at PwC London in Assurance before transitioning into Transaction Services and joining the Financial Decisions and Analysis (FDnA) team - back when it was still known as Transaction Modelling.

In 2013, I seconded to the UAE to help establish FDnA across the Middle East.

My time at PwC provided an excellent foundation in technical analysis, problem-solving, and stakeholder engagement. The exposure to diverse industries and high-pressure transactions helped me develop a structured, commercial approach to decision-making.

Beyond that, it was also a place where I built lasting relationships - many of my closest friendships started there, and it’s where I met my wife.

How did working at PwC help you achieve your career goals?

PwC's global reach and reputation opened doors, but the true value was working alongside top professionals. Witnessing firsthand how structured thinking, effective stakeholder management, and clear communication influence business outcomes was transformative. The global network of peers and mentors I gained at PwC has also been invaluable, providing guidance and perspective throughout my career.

How have your experiences in the Middle East shaped your approach to leadership and financial management compared to your time in the UK?

My move to the Middle East required significant adaptation. While the UK business environment is more structured, the Middle East emphasises relationships and agility. I've learned to:

Make decisions with incomplete information: The fast-paced environment often demands decisive action despite uncertainty.

Manage diverse teams: Leading multicultural teams has reinforced the importance of inclusive and flexible leadership.

Balance structure and speed: Maintaining financial discipline while responding quickly to dynamic market conditions is crucial.

This experience has made me a more adaptable and commercially focused CFO.

What lessons from your time at PwC do you find yourself applying most frequently in your current role?

PwC instilled the importance of structured thinking and clear communication, principles that remain central to my approach. I regularly draw upon:

Breaking down complexity: A methodical approach is essential for informed decision-making.

Stakeholder management: Translating financial data into actionable insights is critical.

Resilience and adaptability: Managing multiple priorities under pressure prepared me well for senior leadership.

Perhaps the most important takeaway, though, is the value of investing in people. PwC’s culture of mentorship and knowledge-sharing shaped the way I develop and lead teams today.

Looking back, what do you think was the most challenging aspect of your work at PwC, and how did you overcome it?

Establishing the FDnA practice in the UAE was a significant challenge.

Building from scratch in a market with a different business pace and relationship-driven decision-making required an entrepreneurial approach. I had to develop tailored solutions, build trust with clients, understand their drivers, and adapt our offering to real-world needs.

This invaluable experience taught me how to build something from the ground up, navigate uncertainty, and thrive in a dynamic commercial environment.

What is the best career advice you ever received?

“Don’t just solve problems—shape the agenda.”

The best leaders don’t just react to challenges—they anticipate them, set the direction, and ensure Finance plays a meaningful role in shaping the future of the business.