Roland Dzialo ACCA

Company: Cushman & Wakefield

Job title: Finance manager - integrated facilities management

 Favourite food: Thai Green Curry or Hungarian Goulash (I love both!)

Who or what inspires you:

I have always been inspired by the success story of Sylvester Stallone. Despite many setbacks in life he always kept moving forward and never gave up on his dreams until they became reality. His rags to riches story might be a cliché, but it has always motivated me and it proves that no one knows what you are capable of except of yourself.

What was your study route:

I started my career in Finance in Denmark where I worked for Europe's leading window & door manufacturer. Having worked with Group Finance Manager and CFO of a listed company, made me realize that I would like to become a qualified accountant. After 3 years of full time work, I moved to Scotland to complete an MSc in Professional Accountancy at University of Dundee and upon graduation I began study towards ACCA while working full-time. I changed roles every 2-3 years to gain valuable experience and get my ACCA PER sign off. During this time I used a mixed approach to study. I did both self-study with BPP materials and attended BPP live online classroom.  

What do you do in your spare time:

In my free time I try to travel as much as I can and visit new countries. I love hillwalking (especially in Scotland – Ben Nevis is my favourite). My daily hobby is bodybuilding/fitness so I spend a lot of time on maintaining a healthy lifestyle throughout the year. It also helps me to keep a healthy mind and be efficient at work. In winter time I snowboard and ski in French Alps or in Poland.

Perfect job:

CFO / Non-Executive Director Career aspirations: In my next career step I would like to become a Group Finance Manager or Financial Controller, but ultimately I would like to become a CFO.

Childhood dream job:

To become the wolf of Wall Street

Favourite holiday destination or holiday type:

Gran Canaria to catch some sun and French Alpes for winter months.

Biggest support throughout your studies and career:

I think that the biggest support was coming from my mentors and line managers who motivated me on my ACCA journey and gave me an opportunity to gain a valuable work experience which helped in my studies.

Advice for students going through the exams:

There is no golden mean or a magic formula to pass the exams. Stay positive, work hard, be patient and make it happen! Remember, hard work always pays off!

What is the best thing about being an ACCA member:

Sense of achievement and being able to be a part of a great, highly respected community of professionals. The employers and business partners understand the professionalism and skills of ACCA members which opens many doors.

What’s a fun fact about you:

When I attended a primary school in Poland, I was in charge of a local school radio and was acting as a DJ during various school entertainment events.