Faera Alia Rohailan - Embracing change, culture, and curiosity

My career journey

I began my career in Orpington, a small accounting firm in Kent, UK, fresh out of university. Soon after, I returned to Malaysia to start my journey at Ernst & Young, where I sharpened my skills and laid the foundation for my future roles. From there, I ventured into commercial sectors, which led me into the world of shared services. My path took me to various companies—first to Schlumberger, then BAT and now, almost  four years after embarking on my adventure with Roche Services & Solutions APAC,  I find myself here in Costa Rica with  Roche Services & Solutions Americas , five months into my current role as the Aspire SME CCA.

What has remained constant throughout my career is the importance of understanding the function of my role and the overarching goal of the company. Knowing this allowed me to align my work priorities with the company’s vision. However, what truly resonates with me at Roche is the workplace culture. A positive, inclusive, and supportive work environment makes all the difference. When a workplace is toxic or lacks a sense of community, it drains motivation and affects the quality of work.

As a CCA (Country Chief Accountant), I see myself as a bridge between the operations team and the local team. In previous roles, I was often part of just one side of the team, but this role uniquely combines leadership, problem-solving, and relationship-building across various levels of the organization. It is an exciting, multi-faceted role that allows me to observe, mediate, and learn from multiple stakeholders. It is this diversity of tasks and interactions that keeps me engaged.

In my role today, I work alongside an incredible team that includes colleagues from across Latin America—Ecuador, Argentina, Brazil, Mexico, and more. Listening to team conversations in Spanish, I have been fascinated by how the same concept can be communicated in so many different ways, through gestures, expressions, and words. It is a reminder that diversity not only enriches the workplace but also leads to more creative and dynamic solutions. Never a dull day in the office!

Staying curious

Relocating to Costa Rica was a leap of faith driven by curiosity—the same curiosity that took me to the UK over 20 years ago. There is a thrill of stepping into the unknown, of discovering a world that is completely different from the one you know. Malaysia and Costa Rica couldn’t be more different geographically, but I was surprised to find similarities in values like respect and kindness. As a Muslim woman wearing a hijab in a country with a tiny Muslim population, I have been met with nothing but respect from day one. It has been truly heartwarming.

Of course, learning the local language is key to truly integrating into a new culture. While you don’t need to be fluent, knowing the basics will go a long way in building connections and navigating daily life. It is also important to be respectful of the local culture, including its customs and traditions. For me, this meant educating others about my dietary restrictions, who I am as a Muslim and finding ways to communicate my needs in a culturally sensitive way.

Nurturing others

For me, success isn’t defined by accolades or titles. True success is seeing others flourish and grow—especially those I have had the opportunity to coach or mentor. When I see the people I have guided take on challenges, develop their skills, and achieve their own success, it is an incredibly fulfilling feeling. It is like passing the torch, ensuring that the knowledge is continuously helping others thrive.

But let’s be honest—it’s not always easy. There are days when I wish every office had a "screaming booth" to release pent-up frustration! However, over time, I have learned that reacting in the heat of the moment seldom leads to productive outcomes. Sometimes, the best thing you can do is take a deep breath, walk away, and come back to the problem with a clearer mind. Letting emotions cool down before tackling a challenge often leads to better results.

One of my proudest accomplishments isn’t tied to any one specific moment. It is the cumulative joy of seeing people I have mentored—especially those who didn’t initially check all the boxes on a hiring checklist—grow and shine in their roles. I have always believed that passion, drive, and a willingness to learn are more valuable than fitting into a rigid mold. Hiring and nurturing these "underdogs" and watching them transform into stars is what I consider my success story.

Every day here is an opportunity to adapt, learn, and grow. Costa Ricans, or "Ticos," as they are often called, are incredibly friendly and always willing to lend a helping hand. Anyone embarking on a similar adventure should keep an open mind. Listen, observe, and don’t shy away from making mistakes. Those mistakes will become your greatest teachers. I have gone from struggling to comprehend a single word to almost being able to understand a full conversation with the local cashier at the supermarket- it’s a great feeling!

For anyone considering a career move, my advice is to embrace the resources at your disposal. Sometimes, the path ahead may not be entirely clear, but having open conversations with your colleagues and managers can help illuminate the way forward. Combine that with self-awareness and knowledge of your own abilities, and you will find the right direction.

Closing thought: Life, much like your career, is a journey of constant learning and growth. Embrace it with curiosity, courage,humility and an open mind—be patient, and the rewards will follow. Pura Vida!