We are delighted to introduce one of our latest additions to the team, Rakhee, our Finance Assistant. In this interview, we had the opportunity to learn more about Rakhee’s professional journey, her worldly insights and the valuable contributions she brings to our organization.
Welcome to the team! Tell us a little about yourself.
Thank you for the warm welcome! I’m excited to be a part of this incredible team at Noetic. A little about myself – I was born in the UK, right in the middle of England. I attended university in the UK where I studied business and management and landed my first job out of college in the energy industry working in a sales support role. From there, I went on to work for a smaller gas company based out of Germany doing primarily account management, contract negotiations and pricing work. It was not the most glamorous industry, but the job was fascinating. I gained a lot of exposure to Europe and did quite a bit of traveling to some amazing cities.
Then, in 2013, my husband and I moved to the States with our 1-year-old daughter. I decided to become a stay-at-home mom because moving out of the UK was a big transition, including the significant difference in maternity leave compared to the US. I now have 3 wonderful children.
“Where I grew up in England, they’re known for a really weird accent. I’m glad I don’t have that anymore!”
What led you to apply to join the team at Noetic?
The decision to apply and join the team at Noetic was driven by Affie Benson, a fellow mom at my kids’ school and a consultant at Noetic. I was ready for an intellectual challenge and to re-enter the working world in a helpful capacity. In the end, it almost felt like the Noetic job description fell into my lap and all it took was an additional conversation with Affie telling me that I can do this! So, with Affie’s push, I said why not apply and see where it goes.
“I was excited by the potential opportunity to join such a productive and optimistic team that delivers fulfilling work.”
Which Noetic value do you resonate with most?
The Noetic value that resonates most with me is “Curious Spirit.” I really didn’t think I was curious until I started this role. With the help of my colleagues, I have found confidence in asking questions that resonate with me now more than ever. “Help and Kindness” is also a Noetic value that I strongly connect to and believe in. When a noetic team member needs something or has any questions, I can put my tasks aside to be there and help to be a part of the solution.
“I’ll move heaven and Earth until someone else is happy. I know this about myself – that I am accommodating and tend to be a people pleaser!”
What is the most rewarding part of your job?
So far, the most rewarding part of my role as a Finance Assistant at Noetic has been when things click together. For instance, when I am looking at invoices relating to client contracts or the SOW and then see where it connects on the finance side. Also, it’s rewarding to figure out why a contract is set up the way it is because of the client’s needs.
“It is satisfying when I can find links between things and connect the dots.”
What is your dream in ten years?
I would love to live internationally! Potentially out East in a place such as the Singapore area. During my recent visit to Bali and Singapore, my husband and I had many conversations about where we “need” to be even if it was for a short stint like 1–2 years. It was clear that Asia was booming, whereas parts of the West appeared stagnant. I am intrigued to discover what Eastern culture is truly like, but there always seems to be something very Zen about being in that part of the world.
“So, the dream would be just to pick up the kids (they are still young) and our lives here, move East and live it up to see what it’s all about!”
How have you seen the business world evolve in the last decade?
First and foremost, the biggest and the most notable change over the last decade is the rapid advancement of technology and how it integrates into every aspect of business operations. At home, I tried to remain actively engaged in the business world and keep myself updated on industry trends. Still, new technology advancements continue to be revealed to me every day. With that said, I have experienced positives and negatives with technology over the past decade. For example, technological development along with the lifestyle shift due to COVID-19 has favored people who want a bigger work-life balance. Noetic has allowed me that balance!
“There has been a significant shift in the business landscape of things that used to be just normal or basic functions for how companies operate.”
Is there anything else you would like to share?
Outside of work, I enjoy long walks in my neighborhood, hiking in nature, watching (binging) Netflix shows, and above all, I have a deep love for travel and want to do more! Recently, I also took up Tai Kwon Do and I love it so far because it’s something I can do with my kids. I also LOVE my pets – I have 2 dogs and a bearded Dragon. Yes, a bearded Dragon named Loki.
At Noetic, we have already seen the impact that Rakhee has made in her role as Finance Assistant and the positive contributions she will continue to bring to our team. Stay tuned for more exciting updates as we continue to empower our team and drive forward in the ever-evolving business landscape.