Speakers

Jonathan Barber

IFA Executive Director - UK

Jonathan joined the IFA in 2012 and has over 25 years’ experience working with accountants in business and practice, from SMEs to Big 4 firms. He is passionate about the vital role SMEs and SMPs play at every level of the economy. Jonathan holds a Business Studies degree from Leeds Business School.

Saqib Iqbal, ACA-FCCA-FFA

IFA UAE Regional Director

Saqib is a senior finance executive with over 15 years of experience in finance, VAT, and compliance. A proven leader, he has delivered 300+ lectures and training sessions and holds multiple professional designations. He is passionate about corporate reporting, business analysis, financial modelling, and education.

Dr. Mariem Khalifa

Associate Professor of Accounting College of Business, Zayed University

Dr. Khalifa holds a PhD in Accounting from Hong Kong Polytechnic University and is a CPA Australia Fellow. Her research, published in leading journals, focuses on corporate governance, financial reporting, and capital markets. She currently chairs the inaugural Middle East JAAF 2025 Conference at Zayed University.

Muhammad Omer, FCCA

Managing Partner, SA Consultants LLC

Omer brings extensive experience across the GCC and Asia, specialising in tax, business development, and strategic growth. He partners with public and private organisations to drive operational excellence, innovation, and sustainable success across key industries including energy, infrastructure, and hospitality. 

Malachi Halliday

CEO Halliday Forfaiting Services L.L.C FZ

An award-winning MSME funding and sustainability expert, Malachi supports UAE-based businesses in securing growth capital. A frequent speaker and advisor to global platforms including the UN and GITEX, he was knighted by the Archconfraternity of the Parte Guelfa for his contribution to sustainability and inclusion.

Dr. Rahul Jain PhD (Aus)

Deputy Programme Leader, BSc (Hons) Accounting & Finance, De Montfort University Dubai

Dr. Jain has over 16 years’ experience in higher education, specialising in accounting, finance, and business management. A CPA Australia member, he has taught at leading UAE institutions and focuses on advancing quality teaching and research in finance education.

Imran Nawaz, AFA MIPA

Group Chief Strategy Officer

Imran is a results-driven executive with over 15 years’ experience in business growth, strategy, and operations across manufacturing, healthcare, logistics, and F&B sectors. Known for his leadership and innovation, he excels in driving transformation, building partnerships, and delivering sustainable growth.