As we continue to grow and experience, we develop certain traits that contribute to our prosperity and happiness.

Integrity, positivity and being inquisitive are a few things Lim Ying Yi, Finance Manager of Frasers Centrepoint Singapore personally believes to be key to growth and success. We speak to the cheerful Ying Yi to find out how these traits have guided her in her career.

"I have been with Frasers Centrepoint Singapore for over six months now. Prior to this, I was at Frasers Commercial Trust (FCOT) for seven years. I spent my time there managing the financial portfolio of the Singapore properties.

Growing up, I have always had strong mathematical skills. It was a natural choice for me to enter the auditing field after graduating from university. Before joining Frasers, I was an auditor in a mid-tier firm for two years. I was also completing my Association of Chartered Certified Accountants qualification then.

Unwavering life values

I strongly believe in doing the right thing no matter how difficult it may seem, and to not brush things off too easily. Integrity guides me and my work, and I always try to make informed decisions based on facts and accurate information. This is important in my line of work because finance demands transparency and accountability.

Another important quality to have in my line of work is inquisitiveness. This will pique your interest in the many topics that you will be exposed to. When you start asking questions about them, that is when you learn the most.

"One of the many aspects that excites me about finance in the real estate industry is that it is a very dynamic environment. I am learning something new every day. Some days, I gain unique insights that are out of my job scope such as how the air conditioning units work, or what security guards do. Other times, I am able to hone my knowledge by growing my understanding and keeping up to date with job processes related to my field."

Embracing change with a positive attitude

"Currently, I manage a larger portfolio of the Singapore properties with a bigger team. My job scope is also much wider now and goes beyond just producing financial reports of the properties. My team and I interact with auditors and property managers, and also handle taxes and treasury management. Some of these functions are new to me, but I am thankful that everyone from the different teams that I coordinate with are very accommodating and patiently clarifies any doubts that I may have.

About a year ago, our organisation transitioned to an SAP system, an Enterprise Resource Planning system that facilitates the recording of important information such as procurement and leasing at the operational level which can be integrated to finance for recording of valid vendors’ invoices and billing of customers.

It was a challenging period for the team, but it was also an opportunity to work more closely with colleagues. Many of us from different departments came together to help fine-tune the processes required to implement this new system."

"In my new role, I have made many new friends – from property managers to the company’s corporate team. We help each other out and we know we are all just a phone call away!"

Everything in life is a lesson

"I enjoy running. It allows me a few hours to focus on just myself. I try to run once a week, when I can. I also head to the gym at least two to three times a week. I once went to the gym after a long break, and I fell ill for three days! It seems my body was in shock after a long hiatus.

But I must say that I enjoy challenging myself. Even doing one-on-one interviews is out of my comfort zone! I tell myself that in order to grow, I must face situations I may personally be uncomfortable with.

Everything in life is a lesson – even our less positive experiences. I am an easily motivated person, and I tend to see the good in everyone and everything. That is how I keep myself focused on the positive things in life."