Prior to his career-changing move to Scotland, he was working for ICICI Bank in Mumbai. He knew he wanted to continue his education, so he researched universities that offered courses in finance and accounting. He opted for a one-year, post-graduate master’s degree at the University of Strathclyde, where he was not just accepted but also awarded a partial scholarship.

Travelling to study abroad did not faze Marathe, whose primary and secondary education took place in Africa. He welcomed the prospect, as he explains: “When I went to Glasgow, it was with an open mind. I was as keen on the life experience it would offer as I was on the studying, as one of my main motivations was to experience new cultures. 

“I’ve always been interested in languages, and understanding different points of view and perspectives, and I was very intrigued by Scotland after reading about it.”

The move worked out well. He even relished the Scottish weather, which was a welcome change from the heat of India’s summer and downpours of monsoon season. And he enjoyed the next change of scenery too – from Glasgow to Aberdeen, where he qualified as a CA.

“Our office in Aberdeen was very diverse. It attracted a lot of people from many different countries, and I found Aberdeen to be a charming city. The granite buildings, the architecture, the history – it was all wonderful,” he recalls. 

Communication skills

Marathe returned to India, but as there is no reciprocal arrangement between the CA qualification and its Indian equivalent, he moved into a new career instead – one combining his interests in finance and communication. His role involves providing information for UBS’s clients and financial advisers. “I ensure that the information is well crafted, provided in a timely manner, complete and accurate. It’s quite a non-traditional field to work in for CAs but it’s something I enjoy doing,” he confirms.

Although he is not working in accountancy, Marathe is confident his qualification has been a vital building block for his successful career. “It has given me the confidence to present my point of view. Also the discipline and rigour of my CA qualification, and the sense of responsibility it instilled, mould my approach in any situation. It encourages me to always give my best,” he says.

While he doesn’t envisage revisiting accountancy in India, he remains open to further career progression. “I’m always curious and eager to experience new things and to acquire new skills. There are many inter-disciplinary roles in this company, and UBS encourages mobility, so there’s a lot of scope here.”  

“You can either view something as an
indomitable challenge and let it stop you or see
it as an opportunity to learn and grow”

Considering what he has learned about leadership, Marathe emphasises the importance of personal skills: “It’s about having empathy, compassion, kindness and being willing to change your approach if necessary. A leader does not know everything, but they can inspire people who have the right skills to achieve their highest potential.”

His advice to CAs from international backgrounds is similar: “Mutual respect is key – in other words, respect your colleagues, as well as seeking their respect. Make an effort to understand their point of view, but at the same time also be aware of your own intrinsic worth and make sure you don’t lose your authenticity: use it to grow.

“If you understand your true worth and remain authentically yourself, you will recognise that your perspective can add depth to those of others around you. It’s also vital to be open to different opinions too, because we’re all individuals, with different needs, motivations and backgrounds. If we respect each other and give each other enough space, we can contribute a lot more together.”

This openness to others and enthusiasm for learning about foreign cultures has, Marathe believes, been one of the secrets of his success: “This approach has been key in helping me adapt and see the best in every environment that I’ve worked in. You can either view something as an indomitable challenge and let it stop you or see it as an opportunity to learn and grow.” 

Find more EDI resources