Wahaj Siddiqui

Wahaj Siddiqui Email and Phone Number

Managing Director @ Oblique Consult
Dubai, AE
Wahaj Siddiqui's Location
Dubai, United Arab Emirates, United Arab Emirates
Wahaj Siddiqui's Contact Details

Wahaj Siddiqui personal email

About Wahaj Siddiqui

With over 18 years of experience in accounting, tax advisory, and financial innovation, I am dedicated to transforming businesses through strategic financial leadership and cutting-edge technology.As the Founder and Managing Director of Oblique Consult, I led our expansion from a single city to six countries across the MENA region, including the UAE and KSA. Our team specializes in VAT, WHT, Corporate Tax, and Zakat, providing personalized tax advisory services that go beyond a one-size-fits-all approach. Our commitment to excellence is reflected in our 100% success rate in audits conducted by regulatory authorities like the FTA and ZATCA, and a 0% client attrition rate since inception.In addition to Oblique, I am also the Co-Founder of Simpla, where we are harnessing AI and machine learning to revolutionize accounting & tax compliance for companies in the MENA region. Our AI tools are currently empowering nearly 1000 users, making finance intuitive, efficient, and affordable. By automating complex financial processes, we enable entrepreneurs to focus on what they do best—growing their businesses—while we handle the intricacies of finance.My journey in finance began with impactful roles at Emirates, Etihad Airways, and KPMG:At Emirates, I managed the global indirect tax portfolio and spearheaded the automation of tax collection systems, significantly reducing manual efforts and enhancing compliance across diverse jurisdictions.At Etihad Airways, I streamlined financial processes and automated key accounting tasks, saving thousands of working hours and improving financial accuracy.During my tenure at KPMG, I gained extensive experience in auditing and financial consulting, working with a diverse portfolio of clients and developing a strong foundation in financial strategy and risk assessment.Throughout my career, I've been driven by continuous learning, innovation, and a deep commitment to making a positive impact. By integrating AI and advanced technologies into financial operations, I've helped organizations boost efficiencies by up to 35% and reduce turnaround times by over 28%.I believe that finance is not just about numbers—it's about the stories behind them, the businesses we help grow, and the relationships we build along the way. I'm passionate about bridging the gap between traditional finance and technological innovation to drive meaningful change in the industry.Feel free to reach out to me for discussions on AI innovations in finance, or tax advisory services. Let's connect and make a difference together!

Wahaj Siddiqui's Current Company Details
Oblique Consult

Oblique Consult

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Managing Director
Dubai, AE
Employees:
12
Wahaj Siddiqui Work Experience Details
  • Oblique Consult
    Managing Director
    Oblique Consult
    Dubai, Ae
  • Simplaai
    Co-Founder | Strategy | Investor Relations
    Simplaai Aug 2023 - Present
    Abu Dhabi Emirate, United Arab Emirates
    At Simpla AI, we're revolutionizing financial advisory services in the MENA region through cutting-edge AI technology. As a co-founder and strategic leader, I'm driving our mission to democratize access to accurate, instant tax and accounting advice.Key Responsibilities:Spearhead product strategy and development roadmap, ensuring alignment with market needs and technological advancementsOversee quality assurance, collaborating directly with developers to maintain our high… Show more At Simpla AI, we're revolutionizing financial advisory services in the MENA region through cutting-edge AI technology. As a co-founder and strategic leader, I'm driving our mission to democratize access to accurate, instant tax and accounting advice.Key Responsibilities:Spearhead product strategy and development roadmap, ensuring alignment with market needs and technological advancementsOversee quality assurance, collaborating directly with developers to maintain our high standards of accuracy and efficiencyManage investor relations, including quarterly reporting and fundraising initiativesAchievements:Grew user base to 1,000+ within months of launch, including adoption by Big 4 firms and Fortune 500 companies, with zero marketing spendPioneered the implementation of advanced LLMs (GPT, Claude, Pinecone) and a proprietary RAG model, achieving 95%+ accuracy in AI-generated financial adviceReduced turnaround time for complex financial advice from days to seconds, dramatically improving efficiency for clientsEstablished Simpla as one of the first AI firms specializing in tax and accounting in the MENA regionInnovation Focus:Leveraging my experience from Oblique Consult and Emirates Airlines, we're addressing critical gaps in the financial advisory landscape:Scalability: Creating AI solutions that aren't limited by human capital constraintsAccessibility: Providing instant, accurate advice at a fraction of traditional costsEfficiency: Dramatically reducing dependency on external advisors and streamlining internal processesVision:Our goal is to simplify the world of finance, accounting, and tax, one step at a time. We're working towards becoming the essential AI copilot for finance professionals, starting with tax and expanding to cover all aspects of financial operations. Show less
  • Oblique Consult
    Managing Director
    Oblique Consult Feb 2018 - Present
    Dubai, United Arab Emirates
    Spearheading a dynamic tax & financial advisory firm that's revolutionizing consultancy services across the GCC. At Oblique Consult, we blend deep expertise with cutting-edge technology to deliver unparalleled value to our clients.Key Achievements:Expanded from UAE to KSA, Bahrain, Kuwait, and Oman within 5 years45-50% year-over-year revenue growthGrew team from 1 to 16 finance and tax professionalsDiversified services from VAT advisory to comprehensive financial… Show more Spearheading a dynamic tax & financial advisory firm that's revolutionizing consultancy services across the GCC. At Oblique Consult, we blend deep expertise with cutting-edge technology to deliver unparalleled value to our clients.Key Achievements:Expanded from UAE to KSA, Bahrain, Kuwait, and Oman within 5 years45-50% year-over-year revenue growthGrew team from 1 to 16 finance and tax professionalsDiversified services from VAT advisory to comprehensive financial solutionsServiced Fortune 500 companies, government entities, and high-growth startupsCore Services:Tax Advisory:• Corporate Tax, VAT, Withholding Tax, Zakat• 100% success rate in GCC tax audits with zero penaltiesAccounting & Financial Management:• Full-cycle accounting, financial analysis, budgeting• AI-driven process optimizationDigital Transformation:• ERP deployment, digital finance ecosystem implementation• Bridging technology and finance functionsRisk Management & Compliance:• Risk assessment, internal audit, performance managementInnovation Focus:Proprietary secure communications appAI and machine learning for predictive analyticsClient-Centric Approach:Deep understanding of each client's unique business landscapeTailored solutions aligned with specific goals and challengesLong-term partnership commitmentCore Values:Innovation: Embracing cutting-edge technologies and continuous improvementPrecision: Delivering accurate, timely financial insights with rigorous quality controlPartnership: Building long-term relationships and aligning solutions with client goalsStrategic Vision:At OBCO, we're not just adapting to the future of finance - we're actively shaping it. Our aim is to be the catalyst that transforms financial operations into powerful drivers of business success across the GCC. By combining deep local knowledge with global best practices and innovative technologies, we empower businesses to navigate complex financial landscapes with confidence & agility. Show less
  • Emirates
    Finance Manager (Indirect Taxes - Group Financial Reporting)
    Emirates Dec 2015 - Feb 2018
    Dubai, United Arab Emirates
    As Lead for Indirect Taxes at Emirates, I played an important role in managing the company's global indirect tax portfolio, ensuring compliance with local financial regulations, overseeing associated accounting activities, and managing pertinent tax documents. My tenure was marked by a series of transformative initiatives that streamlined processes, enhanced efficiency, and helped Emirates deploye creative technology in tax management.Tax Strategy & Compliance: I demonstrated thorough… Show more As Lead for Indirect Taxes at Emirates, I played an important role in managing the company's global indirect tax portfolio, ensuring compliance with local financial regulations, overseeing associated accounting activities, and managing pertinent tax documents. My tenure was marked by a series of transformative initiatives that streamlined processes, enhanced efficiency, and helped Emirates deploye creative technology in tax management.Tax Strategy & Compliance: I demonstrated thorough subject matter expertise by advising global stations and business units on complex tax matters and associated accounting implications. By liaising with regulatory authorities, I ensured clarity on tax items and maintained strict compliance with all relevant regulations.Process Automation: I spearheaded the overhaul of the entire network's tax collection system, transforming it into a fully automated process that accounted for FOREX gains and losses. This initiative significantly reduced manual effort and minimized the risk of errors.VAT Implementation: As the finance lead for a large-scale VAT tax project, I facilitated a smooth transition to new enterprise-wide financial systems and processes when the UAE introduced its first-ever taxes. My leadership ensured seamless adoption and compliance with the new tax regime.Reporting Efficiency: By employing exceptional technical skills, I reduced the reporting timeframe from 20 business days to 9 and produced data reports 2 weeks early. This enabled faster pricing revisions and more agile decision-making.Project Leadership: I proposed and led a system automation project to calculate profit loss or gain by capturing receipt dates and comparing currency differences. This initiative provided valuable insights into the financial impact of currency fluctuations. Show less
  • Al Hilal Official
    Senior Officer
    Al Hilal Official Jan 2013 - Dec 2015
    Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
    During my tenure, I made significant contributions to the organization's risk management and audit functions. By designing innovative solutions and fostering cross-functional collaboration, I enhanced decision-making, mitigated risks, and strengthened the bank's internal controls.Risk Assessment Automation: I designed an automated risk assessment model based on GARP principles, which revolutionized the way we evaluated risk. By compiling inputs and assessments, the model produced… Show more During my tenure, I made significant contributions to the organization's risk management and audit functions. By designing innovative solutions and fostering cross-functional collaboration, I enhanced decision-making, mitigated risks, and strengthened the bank's internal controls.Risk Assessment Automation: I designed an automated risk assessment model based on GARP principles, which revolutionized the way we evaluated risk. By compiling inputs and assessments, the model produced quantifiable insights, significantly reducing subjectivity in risk conversations. This innovation became a risk baseline tool going forward.Stakeholder Collaboration: As a trusted liaison between audit and management, I facilitated effective communication and decision-making. By carefully evaluating the adequacy of controls and providing guidance, I endeavored to provide advice that struck the right balance between risk and reward when pursuing new business opportunities.Anomaly Detection: With a keen eye for detail, I meticulously reviewed clearing and suspense accounts related to AP, Trade Services, and Treasury. By promptly identifying & escalating anomalies & inconsistencies to senior leadership, I helped maintain the integrity of financial operations and mitigate potential risks.Compliance Framework: I developed & implemented a robust two-way transaction compliance principle for all audits. This framework ensured strict adherence to Central Bank laws, internal policies and procedures, codes and practices, and business ethics. By upholding the highest standards of compliance, I safeguarded the bank's reputation and financial standing.Risk Mitigation: Through close collaboration with diverse teams, including compliance, information security, legal, and credit risk, I conducted thorough risk assessments and control testing. By identifying potential vulnerabilities & recommending corrective measures, I played a key role in reducing financial & ops risks across the organization. Show less
  • Etihad Airways
    Accountant - Financial Reports
    Etihad Airways May 2009 - Jul 2011
    Abu Dhabi
    At Etihad Airways, I played a key role in driving financial efficiency, automating processes, and fostering cross-functional collaboration. My tenure was marked by a series of initiatives that streamlined operations, reduced manual effort, and enhanced the accuracy of financial reporting.Process Automation: I spearheaded the automation of various financial tasks, significantly reducing manual labor hours and minimizing the risk of errors in daily operations. By automating the entire… Show more At Etihad Airways, I played a key role in driving financial efficiency, automating processes, and fostering cross-functional collaboration. My tenure was marked by a series of initiatives that streamlined operations, reduced manual effort, and enhanced the accuracy of financial reporting.Process Automation: I spearheaded the automation of various financial tasks, significantly reducing manual labor hours and minimizing the risk of errors in daily operations. By automating the entire inter-station receivable and payable entry process, I saved thousands of working hours and improved the efficiency of the finance department.Cost-Effective Solutions: Through close collaboration with IT teams, I developed and implemented numerous cost-effective and time-saving solutions. By leveraging technology and automating key processes, I helped optimize financial operations and reduce overall costs.Account Reconciliation: I was handpicked by senior leadership to clear and resolve complex inter-station payables and VAT accounts. By meticulously reviewing transactions, communicating with stations across the network, and following up regularly, I ensured the accuracy and integrity of financial records.Cross-Functional Collaboration: I worked closely with various business teams and budget departments to address issues related to budget constraints on OPEX accounts. By fostering open communication and providing expert guidance, I helped align financial strategies with operational goals and ensured the effective utilization of resources.Throughout my tenure at Etihad Airways, I consistently demonstrated a proactive approach to problem-solving, a commitment to process improvement, and a talent for leveraging technology to drive efficiency. By combining technical expertise with a collaborative mindset, I made significant contributions to the company's financial operations, helping to streamline processes, reduce costs, and enhance the accuracy of financial reporting. Show less
  • Kpmg
    Audit Associate
    Kpmg Oct 2005 - Sep 2008
    Abu Dhabi
    As an Associate, I gained extensive experience in auditing and financial consulting, working with a diverse portfolio of clients across various industries. My tenure was marked by rapid professional growth, increasing responsibilities, and a reputation for delivering exceptional results.Leadership and Client Management: I was consistently recognized by senior management for my strong leadership skills and ability to cultivate positive client relationships. This led to yearly promotions… Show more As an Associate, I gained extensive experience in auditing and financial consulting, working with a diverse portfolio of clients across various industries. My tenure was marked by rapid professional growth, increasing responsibilities, and a reputation for delivering exceptional results.Leadership and Client Management: I was consistently recognized by senior management for my strong leadership skills and ability to cultivate positive client relationships. This led to yearly promotions and increased responsibilities, allowing me to take on more complex audits and advisory projects.Specialization in Credit Reviews: I developed a particular expertise in conducting credit reviews, streamlining the process by creating tools that reduced the manual effort required to analyze financial statements. By leveraging my knowledge of credit risk and financial analysis, I provided valuable insights to clients and helped them make informed decisions.Audit Execution and Reporting: I played a key role in executing day-to-day audit activities for strategic clients, including banks and listed entities. By applying a risk-based approach and adhering to professional auditing standards, I ensured the delivery of high-quality audits. I prepared comprehensive audit reports, highlighting key findings, areas of concern, and recommendations for improvement.Risk Assessment and Internal Controls: I meticulously identified and evaluated potential risk areas in clients' financial statements and internal control systems. By providing recommendations for enhancements and best practices, I helped clients strengthen their financial reporting frameworks and mitigate potential risks. Show less

Wahaj Siddiqui Skills

Business And Financial Analysis Ifrs Financial Statements Developing Client Relationships Project Management Staff Training Exceptional Problem Solving Oracle Financials Business Process Improvement Logic Design Strategic Planning Strategy Development Business Strategy External Audit Compliance Audits Strategic Decision Support Business Objects Accounts Payable Account Reconciliation Accounts Receivable Financial Audits Financial Accounting Risk Assessment Risk Management Financial Analysis Ifrs Financial Statements Internal Controls Internal Audit Corporate Finance Strategy Budgets Oracle E Business Suite Analysis Variance Analysis Managerial Finance Quality Auditing

Wahaj Siddiqui Education Details

  • Certified Internal Auditor (Part Qualified)
    Certified Internal Auditor (Part Qualified)
    Internal Audit
  • Murdoch University
    Murdoch University
    Average: Distinction
  • Association Of Chartered Certified Accountants
    Association Of Chartered Certified Accountants
    Part Completed
  • Al Rayyan School
    Al Rayyan School
    O Levels

Frequently Asked Questions about Wahaj Siddiqui

What company does Wahaj Siddiqui work for?

Wahaj Siddiqui works for Oblique Consult

What is Wahaj Siddiqui's role at the current company?

Wahaj Siddiqui's current role is Managing Director.

What is Wahaj Siddiqui's email address?

Wahaj Siddiqui's email address is wa****@****ail.com

What schools did Wahaj Siddiqui attend?

Wahaj Siddiqui attended Certified Internal Auditor (Part Qualified), Murdoch University, Association Of Chartered Certified Accountants, Al Rayyan School.

What are some of Wahaj Siddiqui's interests?

Wahaj Siddiqui has interest in Business Reports, Auditing, Business Strategy, Financial Statements, Business Finance, Accounting Standards, Accounting, Strategic Management, Business Accounting, Strategic Planning.

What skills is Wahaj Siddiqui known for?

Wahaj Siddiqui has skills like Business And Financial Analysis, Ifrs Financial Statements, Developing Client Relationships, Project Management, Staff Training, Exceptional Problem Solving, Oracle Financials, Business Process Improvement, Logic Design, Strategic Planning, Strategy Development, Business Strategy.

Who are Wahaj Siddiqui's colleagues?

Wahaj Siddiqui's colleagues are Arslan Ahmad (Aca, Cpa, Acca), Adnan Yousaf Acca, Aidarous Mohamed, Cma, Mohsin Ali Awan, Ashtalakshmi K R, Saqib Akhtar Ali, Nikhil Mahendran.

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