Davos debrief: A firm CEO shares her unforgettable experience

Financial Management (FM) magazine

Avani Desai, CPA, attended the World Economic Forum’s annual meeting in Davos, Switzerland, in January. It was her first visit to the mountain town’s famed event that brings together world leaders and subject matter experts.

In this episode of the FM podcast, Desai reflected on the lessons she learned and on the perspective she gained — as an attendee and a discussion moderator. Desai led a panel discussion on the intersection of artificial intelligence (AI), supply chains, and cybersecurity. She summarised some of the lessons she can apply to her role as CEO of a large US accounting firm.

What you’ll learn from this episode:

· Desai’s description of the World Economic Forum meeting in Davos, Switzerland.

· Details of the panel discussion that Desai led.

· The session that was “definitely a highlight” for Desai.

· The tie-in between AI and cybersecurity.

· Why the International Women’s Day theme resonates with her.

· How one mentoring experience changed Desai’s view of Schellman’s messaging about the profession.

· The lessons from Davos she has taken back to her firm.