Rafay Khan

Rafay: I’m Rafay Khan, a Manager in Process Improvement at EY. My career began in accounting and financial analysis, but over time, I developed a passion for simplifying complex processes and driving innovation. That shift led me into automation and strategic improvement work, where I now help finance teams operate more efficiently.

My leadership journey really started when I moved from an accounting-focused role into financial analysis, and then into process improvement. One of the most important lessons I learned early on is that leadership isn’t about having all the answers, it’s about listening, building trust, and empowering others.

Rafay: Empathy, clarity, and adaptability. I’ve seen firsthand how empathetic leadership builds strong relationships, how clarity sets direction, and how adaptability helps navigate change. These qualities not only make a team stronger but also create space for innovation.

Rafay: Shifting from finance to technology was a major turning point. I had to lead projects involving tools I was still mastering, like Power Apps, Power Automate, PowerBI, and SharePoint. I learned to be honest about what I knew, open to learning from others, and focused on creating value.

One of the biggest risks I took during that time was choosing to champion no-code/low-code platforms within a large organization. At the time, it wasn’t a mainstream approach in finance functions. But I stayed persistent, showed tangible results, and gained support. That risk opened new doors and helped build my personal brand as an innovation leader.

Rafay: My current Director has had the biggest influence. Their ability to lead with trust, provide space for innovation, and support growth has shaped how I lead others. I also draw from EY’s broader leadership culture, which emphasizes collaboration and continuous improvement.

Rafay: I’m drawn to the YPLS community because it brings together individuals who are navigating the intersection of leadership, innovation, and impact. It’s a space to learn from others, share experiences, and grow beyond your immediate network.

I hope to connect with like-minded professionals who are passionate about transforming their industries. I’d also like to contribute by sharing insights from my journey with the Power Platform and process innovation. Looking ahead, I’m exploring ways to mentor youth by introducing them to low-code tools and sparking their interest in technology careers.

Rafay: The ability to make complexity feel simple is often overlooked. During difficult moments, I remind myself of the bigger picture. Challenges are temporary, but the impact of staying steady and thoughtful lasts. I also lean on my network—just talking things out can spark new ideas. My advice: don’t isolate yourself; leadership isn’t meant to be a solo sport.

Work-life balance isn’t always perfect, but I do prioritize personal time. I find energy in being outdoors, camping, kayaking, or woodworking with friends and family. These moments keep me grounded and help me return to work with a clear mind and fresh perspective.

Rafay: I’ve always loved teaching others, especially when it comes to making technology accessible. Whether it’s guiding colleagues through automation tools or mentoring future leaders, I find purpose in helping people unlock their potential.

A defining moment that shaped how I lead was stepping into my first process improvement project without a technical background. I had to learn on the job, lead with questions, and collaborate closely with others. That experience taught me to lead with humility, curiosity, and a drive to help others grow beyond their titles.