From Intern to Partner: A Journey of Trust and Tenacity

At CLA Global Indus Value Consulting , we do more than grow careers—we grow people. That belief has shaped my journey from a curious intern to a Partner, entrusted with leading high-impact consulting engagements. It’s a path defined not only by milestones but by mentorship, learning, and purpose.

Starting Small, Thinking Big

My journey began at a midsized chartered accountancy firm. In those early years, I spent my days poring over financial statements, understanding compliance frameworks, and learning how to balance technical rigor with client needs. It was a time of fast-paced learning and foundational growth.

Moving to a Big 4 firm was my next leap. The exposure to global clients, cross-border transactions, and high-stakes projects expanded my perspective. I saw firsthand how strategy, precision, and collaboration come together in real-time to deliver business-critical outcomes. These years were formative and gave me a blueprint for thinking strategically under pressure.

Finding My Calling in Forensic Consulting

Ten years ago, I found my niche in forensic and related advisory services. The field challenged me to bring together logic, ethics, curiosity, and analytical depth. It was no longer just about numbers—it became about discovering facts, identifying fraud, protecting reputation, and building trust in complex environments.

Each assignment was like solving a puzzle. I thrived in the pressure, the investigation, and the responsibility that came with helping businesses navigate risk and uncertainty.

CLA IVC: Growing Through Purpose and People

Six years ago, I joined CLA Global Indus Value Consulting. From the outset, I sensed something different. The culture here is driven by purpose. Success is not measured by revenue targets alone—it’s measured by how we grow as people, how we mentor each other, and how we serve clients with integrity and empathy.

At CLA IVC, growth is not transactional—it’s transformational.

One of the most pivotal moments early on was being entrusted with leading a high-profile forensic investigation. It was complex, urgent, and high-stakes. But the trust placed in me by leadership gave me the confidence to take ownership. That assignments changed how I viewed leadership—it is not about having all the answers, but about being surrounded by people who believe in your potential and guide you along the way.

Building the Next Generation

Mentorship at CLA IVC is a two-way street. I’ve had the privilege of learning from outstanding leaders, and now I invest in the next generation of professionals. Watching young consultants rise, ask tough questions, and grow into thoughtful advisors has been among the most fulfilling parts of my journey.

We take pride in recognising high-potential individuals and building opportunities for them. It’s not just about titles—it’s about impact. And when there is no path forward yet, we build it together.

Innovation, Ownership, and Aspiration

We are proud to be an AI-enabled, future-forward firm. We use intelligent tools not to replace people, but to magnify their impact. We believe in entrepreneurship and discovery—whether in how we structure engagements, identify talent, or empower individuals to realise their aspirations.

At CLA IVC, our culture is built around the belief that when people thrive, performance follows.

A Journey Still in Motion

Looking back, I see that my journey has been shaped by mentors who believed in me, clients who challenged me, and a firm that gave me room to grow. What I value most is the trust I received, the tenacity I developed, and the purpose I found in every step.

To those starting out in their careers — embrace every opportunity to learn, seek out people who inspire you, and never stop growing. Your journey might begin as an intern, just like mine did. And with the right mindset, it may lead you to something far greater than you imagined.

Because at CLA IVC, we don’t just build consultants—we build leaders.

By Palash Kothari , Partner at CLA Global Indus Value Consulting.

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