How would a Finance team in a travel tech company like Klook contribute to its business goals? Imagine a geographically diverse group of over 80 members, spread across 9 different teams within our Global Finance business unit, working together to safeguard our financial reports and manage risks and rewards. And the said teams are:
- Business Finance
- Corporate Finance
- Financial Reporting
- Finance Information System
- Financial Planning & Analysis
- Physical Inventory Control
- Tax
- Treasury
- Internal Control
Sure, that would imply a lot of virtual catchups over calls. But with our Finance members' diverse backgrounds, each day at Klook offers them exciting challenges to practice their problem-solving skills.
With that in mind, we got the inside scoop on why our Finance colleagues chose Klook. They also shared some advice for anyone just kicking off their career in Finance fresh out of university. Let's get into it!
Priscilla Kan
Senior Finance Manager
What is it like working here at Klook?
Klook operates with a flat management structure, backed by strong leadership support. Collaboration is key, with everyone working closely to achieve goals and deliver projects. This ensures an inclusive, transparent working environment where everyone feels valued and respected.
Secondly, Klook offers abundant opportunities for experimentation, learning, and growth, regardless of prior experience. Whether diving into new projects or acquiring new skills, we're encouraged to embrace challenges. We receive comprehensive training, guidance, and resources to adapt to evolving job demands. Furthermore, Klook prioritizes our career development, offering clear pathways for advancement and promotion. Whether a newbie or a tenured employee, Klook is committed to providing development opportunities to help us achieve our career aspirations.
Personally, I find the working environment here motivating and fulfilling. I can explore new areas, acquire new knowledge, and engage in meaningful collaboration with experienced colleagues. This positive learning culture has played a pivotal role in shaping me into a more versatile and confident professional.
What kind of spirit does the Finance team embody?
Teamwork spirit! Despite the different teams and functions, we operate as a cohesive unit to tackle any challenges that come our way.
Each team's contributions are integral to the smooth functioning of the overall finance system, and as a result, achieving our objectives. Collaboration among team members is crucial with complex issues like budget adjustments, risk management, and financial decision-making. By leveraging diverse expertise and skills, we can analyze and address these challenges effectively.
We also learn from one another by exchanging best practices and experiences. Through collaborative efforts like this, we expand our expertise and capabilities, leading to better results in our work.
Stone Shi
Financial Information System (FIS) Manager
Why did you choose to develop your career at Klook?
I decided to join Klook because of the industry it's in. Travel is a sector that sees growing demand as people's incomes rise. Moreover, Klook's target market aligns with my optimistic outlook. Starting as a local experience provider, Klook offers a distinctive edge that sets it apart from traditional travel agencies. I also appreciate the diversity at Klook; I've had the opportunity to work alongside colleagues from diverse cultural backgrounds.
When choosing a career path, what should fresh graduates take into consideration?
I think it boils down to two key questions: which industry and which company? Personally, I'd lean towards industries that are not only vast in size but also booming in growth. A large market with sluggish growth might indicate it's on the decline. Opting for a dynamic, expanding sector opens up more doors of opportunity.
Once you've pinpointed the industry, aim for its leading companies. Top-tier companies often boast well-structured workflows and training programs. This enables fresh graduates to develop strong work ethics and a solid career foundation.
What's the most memorable project you've been involved in?
It's the Financial Data Mart Reconstruction project. In this financial data analysis project, we optimized existing spreadsheets and introduced new ones to streamline analysis and facilitate the extraction of actionable insights. What struck me the most was the project's broad and unique audience. Besides meeting the project requirements, we expanded our financial knowledge and gained deeper insights into various financial analysis scenarios.
Wenqin Guo
Associate Manager, Financial Planning & Analysis
Why did you choose to develop your career at Klook?
I was drawn to Klook because it seemed fun. For me, choosing a company is all about connecting with what it stands for. Klook, as a global travel experience booking platform that provides countless travelers with ways to explore the world, is in itself an appeal to me. Then there’s also the consideration of where the company and the travel industry at large are headed. We’re riding the wave of the global online travel market’s rapid growth, and Klook’s been in the game for over 9 years. It has gained the favor of and funding from many top investment institutions. So I believe this is a company with great potential and we can grow together!
What advice do you have for aspiring Klookers looking to secure a Finance position at Klook?
Look into the details of the different Finance roles beforehand. Consider what positions suit you, and match them with your interests and specialties so you can have a clearer goal. For tests and interviews, having a strong foundation in your field is key to acing the written exam. Our interview assesses your overall readiness. So, prepare well by organizing your experiences and keeping an open mind toward new challenges. I'm confident this approach will set you up for success!
What's #LifeAtKlook like for you?
My teammates come from all over the world, each bringing their unique backgrounds to the table. What binds us is our shared energy, youthfulness, and open-mindedness. Klook values our employee experience, offering perks like Joy Allowance and Workcation! Here, you get to blend work with travel, while connecting with teammates in a different office. Beyond job experiences, there's a strong focus on nurturing our talents. We regularly have sharing sessions and training on various topics. All of these spark our passion for learning and encourage us to grow and advance together!
Tommy Au
Associate Manager, Corporate Finance
Why did you choose to develop your career at Klook?
I came across Klook while booking travel products on its platform and was impressed by its reliability and growing reputation. It wasn't long before I discovered that Klook is a rapidly evolving and forward-thinking startup. There were constantly new projects and continuous improvements to the app. Being part of this team means I get to contribute to various projects and truly make an impact. Moreover, Klook promotes a collaborative culture where employees support one another, tackle challenges together, and facilitate each other's career growth, all without hierarchy constraints. We work together and exchange constructive feedback regardless of our job titles.
What's the most memorable project you've been involved in?
The standout project I worked on was the US$210 million capital fundraising we executed in 2023. Led by our Corporate Finance team, the project involved everything from shaping the company's selling points to liaising with investors. Each stage of the process demanded different skills, but the most rewarding aspect was collaborating closely with our C-suite leaders like Ethan, Eric, and Shang, as well as gleaning insights from external investors. Successfully concluding the capital raising marked a significant milestone in my career journey at Klook.
When choosing a career path, what should fresh graduates take into consideration?
Find a place where you can evolve into a well-rounded talent, gain exposure to diverse areas of knowledge, and hone expertise in a specific field. This would facilitate rapid growth in the short term and foster long-term career development. At Klook, we value cross-team collaboration and empower colleagues to voice their ideas and spearhead projects independently. Eventually, these tangible results they yield will offer them invaluable learning experiences and renewed insights.
Gloria Yang
Associate Manager, Financial Reporting
What advice do you have for aspiring Klookers looking to secure a Finance position at Klook?
Klook is a dynamic and innovative company. If you want to land an offer, what you can show during your interview is your curiosity about new things and willingness to accept new challenges.
Communication skills are also important. Expressing your ideas clearly and logically during the interview will help the interviewer grasp your strengths immediately.
When choosing a career path, what should fresh graduates take into consideration?
Start by pinpointing your passions and strengths to identify the direction you want to take. Then, get a grasp of the market's needs and the outlook of various industries; focus on those with growth potential. For example, Klook, with its longstanding presence in the travel and experiences industry, offers ample opportunities for career advancement. Lastly, commit to ongoing learning and self-improvement, keep a positive mindset, and uphold a strong work ethic.
What's #LifeAtKlook like for you?
I experience freedom here in this culturally diverse company. In my day-to-day, I interact with colleagues from all over the globe. Despite our different backgrounds, our shared passion for travel and openness to new experiences make our communications seamless and our meetings productive. Plus, I absolutely adore our Pet Fridays in the Shenzhen office! There's nothing like having kittens and dogs around to boost our moods and relieve work stress.
Want to experience career growth like no other?
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Psst... we chatted with our Chief Financial Officer Shang Chuang on how he steered Klook out of the pandemic to become a stronger business than before, his leadership approach, and his advice to budding financial leaders.
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