Interview with Ni Zeng, Accountant of DC Alliance
In series of interviews to learn more about the DC Alliance Management, we sit down with board members to find out their background, insights, and personal life. This week, we feature Ni Zeng, our accountant at DC Alliance.
Tell us more about yourself (where you were born, studied, worked).
I was born in Zhoushan, China, and migrated to Australia with my parents when I was eight years old. I studied a double degree in Commerce (Accounting) and Social Sciences (International Relations) at Curtin University. After working briefly for my local Federal Member, I decided commerce was a more suitable path for me and I further pursued a Master of Commerce (Finance) at the University of Western Australia. I worked for my family business until graduating from my Masters and found my place in Pier DC (now DCA | PIER) after graduation.
How did you end up at DCA?
I was invited for an interview by the previous management on LinkedIn. My commerce and bilingual background, plus business experience gained through my family business was suited to what they were looking for.
What is your day-to-day role at DCA?
My main day-to-day role in DCA is to administrate accounting related activities in the organisation such as AP/AR and Payroll. I support our Finance Director Mark Ryan in corresponding with auditors and various external stakeholders as required. Every quarter I assist management in the budgeting process, present financial performance analysis and participate in the Board meeting as secretary.
What are some key milestones of your role here thus far?
Having joined DCA | PIER from its very early stage, I am lucky enough to witness the business grow and develop into its form today. I myself am growing along with the business as it matures and develops more complexity in its activities.
What is your perspective of someone who’s come from the previous management of PIER and in DCA now?
There is a change of management style compared to the previous management. The current DCA management is very hands on from the top down. With designated directors in all areas of Operations, Sales/Marketing, and Finance, and strong resource and funding support, the Board of Directors are united strategically to help DCA grow and expand nationally, and in the subcontinent in the near future.
What do you enjoy about being part of DCA?
The work culture in DCA PIER is very relaxed and friendly. The management is very trusting of their staff.
How is working life with a young one at home?
It’s not always easy balancing work and an eight-month-old at home. But my manager Mark and Albert have been very supportive, and I am currently on flexible work arrangement working from home. Thanks to the tech geniuses Chris and Craig who are always a phone call away to resolve my WFH tech issues, things are working out with a bit of planning and coordination!
What do you enjoy doing the most on weekends?
Before having my baby I enjoyed playing piano, going to body balance class and catching up with friends over brunch. Now with COVID and a baby, weekends are family picnics and online shopping for baby stuff!