About AKW
In the dynamic landscape of the United Arab Emirates business sector, AKW Consultants shines as a beacon of excellence, resilience, and adaptability.
About AKW
In the dynamic landscape of the United Arab Emirates business sector, AKW Consultants shines as a beacon of excellence, resilience, and adaptability.
About AKW
In the dynamic landscape of the United Arab Emirates business sector, AKW Consultants shines as a beacon of excellence, resilience, and adaptability.
Mission
Our mission is clear: to blend international best practices with local insights, serving as trusted partners for businesses of all sizes and sectors. Our mission is not to provide one-size-fits-all solutions but to actively listen, understand, and craft bespoke strategies that align with each client’s unique narrative. We aim to forge partnerships, nurture relationships, and embark on journeys of success, standing by our clients every step of the way. As we look to the future, our commitment remains unwavering: to be the partner of choice for businesses seeking to make their mark in the global arena.
Vision
Our vision is to be a pioneering force, setting new standards for excellence in the UAE’s business landscape and beyond. We aspire to continue our journey as a leading provider of innovative and comprehensive business solutions, dedicated to ethical and sustainable practices. We aim to be recognised globally for our unwavering commitment to responsible practices and our role as an esteemed UAE Good Delivery Auditor in the Gold and Precious Metals sector.
Our Core Values
Integrity
We believe in ensuring that every decision and action reflects honesty, transparency, and a commitment to ethical conduct in all aspects of our business.
Accountability
We foster a culture of accountability, where each team member takes ownership of their responsibilities, learns from challenges, and actively contributes to the collective success of our clients and organisation.
People-Centricity
At the heart of our company, are our people. We recognise the importance of understanding, valuing, and empowering individuals to cultivate a collaborative environment.
Diversity & Inclusivity
We champion diversity and inclusivity as fundamental pillars of our company, embracing a rich tapestry of backgrounds, perspectives, and experiences to foster innovation, creativity, and a workplace where every voice is heard and valued.
Managing Partner & CEO
FAISAL AHMED
Faisal Ahmed serves as the Managing Partner & CEO of AKW Consultants, bringing a wealth of experience and expertise to the organisation. With over 23 years of global experience in financial crime compliance, anti-money laundering, tax advisory, and auditing, Faisal is a distinguished Chartered Accountant.
Faisal’s professional journey began with a strong foundation, spending over six years at KPMG before further honing his skills during an eight-year tenure at PwC in London. His dedication to excellence and his commitment to the industry led him to gain three years of invaluable experience with HSBC, where he held the prestigious position of Director and Global Head for Client Due Diligence for AML Compliance in both the Middle East and London offices.
Our Directors
Behind the success and reputation of AKW Consultants stands a team of dedicated and seasoned professionals. The strength of our firm lies not just in the number, but in the diverse expertise that each member brings to the table.
Michael Wharton
Director
Business Strategy Advisory
Michael is the Director of Business Development and Growth at AKW Consultants and a seasoned professional with a remarkable career that spans diverse industries.
Director
Business Strategy Advisory
Michael is the Director of Business Development and Growth at AKW Consultants and a seasoned professional with a remarkable career that spans diverse industries. Since the inception of the company, he has played a pivotal role in driving AKW Consultants’ success and fostering its growth in the United Arab Emirates and across GCC countries.
He has co-founded several successful startups including a tech startup, where he applied his analytical prowess to solve complex business problems, and an educational consultancy catering to the needs of students seeking quality global education.
In addition to his work at AKW, Michael has contributed to scientific research as an Associate Researcher at the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) and published several papers.
Michael has studied at top universities such as Indian Institute of Technology, Madras, and Cornell University.
Manali Chopra
Director
Accounting, Audit & Tax
An accomplished Chartered Accountant with 13+ years of experience, directs tax accounts and compliance. Notably, she serves as a board member of the prestigious Dubai Business Group
Director
Accounting, Audit & Tax
Manali, a highly accomplished Chartered Accountant with 13+ years of experience, currently serves as the Director of Tax Accounts and Compliance. She excels in tax strategy, compliance, and optimisation, overseeing VAT, Corporate Income Tax, and more. She’s also actively involved in DNFBP sector compliance in the UAE. Manali was a prominent speaker at prestigious UAE corporate tax events and is now a Board Member of the Dubai Business Group for Accountants under the Dubai Chamber of Commerce.
Kenneth Khalkho
Director
Sustainability & Responsible Business
With a remarkable 27-year career, Kenneth is a thought leader in CSR, sustainability, and climate change, with his insights featured in notable publications. Kenneth is a thought leader.
Director
Sustainability & Responsible Business
With a remarkable 27-year career, Kenneth is a thought leader in CSR, sustainability, and climate change, with his insights featured in notable publications. Kenneth is a thought leader in CSR, sustainability, and climate change featured in several notable publications. He has extensive experience as a non-financial auditor, consultant, trainer, and investigator. His expertise covers corporate governance, ethics, fraud investigation, risk assessment, social audits, SDGs, ESG, CSR advisory, supply chain compliance, AML, skill development, and more. He served as Director at Ernst & Young, leading supply chain compliance. Kenneth was also a Partner at Thinkthrough Consulting, specialising in sustainable development. Kenneth has actively participated in government initiatives and skill development missions with organisations like NSDC and MoRD. He consistently emphasises ethical business practices, supply chain integrity, environmental sustainability, and social responsibility.
Shomayle Ahmad Faruqi
Director
Cyber Security & IT Advisory
A cyber security architect with a decade of experience, collaborates with prestigious organisations like KPMG and Deloitte.
Director
Cybersecurity & IT Solutions
A cyber security architect with a decade of experience, collaborates with prestigious organisations like KPMG and Deloitte. He excels in network, application, and infrastructure security, ensuring compliance with ISO 27001 and GDPR. Shomayle, an ethical hacker and trainer, has delivered projects internationally. He holds an MBA and multiple certifications, including ISO 27001 Lead Auditor.