Create, collaborate, transform: Pauline Javani on MSI’s next chapter

PJ, you recently stepped into the role of Interim CEO. How are you finding it?

I saw it as an exciting opportunity, and it felt like the right thing to do. I'm supported by a strong, experienced team whose different strengths complement each other, and I'm confident that together we can achieve great things and create even greater value for our members.

My immediate priority has been bringing the MSI Secretariat team together. With a number of new people joining our team, there is a real opportunity to combine different skills and backgrounds, while keeping one clear focus: our members.

I've had some lovely messages and encouraging feedback from members worldwide, and I'm delighted to have been received so warmly.

Membership organisations have been a big part of your career. How does that fit with MSI?

It fits very naturally. I spent almost 17 years with ACCA in Singapore, working across membership services, business development and partnerships. I then joined the Singapore Accountancy Commission, focusing on industry development.

At the heart of all of these roles were people and connections. I've always enjoyed exploring how people can work together to build something bigger than themselves, and that's something I see every day at MSI.

Our members are all different, but there is so much we can learn from each other and so many opportunities to connect people with the right partners, markets and ideas.

You've also spent a lot of your career in Asia Pacific. What makes this region stand out for you?

It's a region of opportunity. There are hugely different markets, cultures and priorities, but also a strong spirit of collaboration.

Technology is driving a lot of growth, and businesses across the region have shown a real ability to adapt and evolve quickly. For me, that makes it a dynamic place to be and a great environment for MSI to continue developing.

What are you most looking forward to in the next few months?

I'm looking forward to seeing what we can achieve as a team. I don't think everything needs to change overnight. We have a lot that works well already, so it's about building on that, making small improvements and finding new ways to create value for members.

Our upcoming International Conference in Singapore is a great example. Its theme, Create, Collaborate and Transform, is about bringing people together, sharing experience and being open to new ideas. I hope everyone leaves with a fresh perspective and something they can take back to their own firm.

What's next for MSI?

We need to stay true to our values while remaining open to change. The world is moving quickly, and we need to keep learning, adapting and looking for opportunities to do things better. For me, that's what makes MSI's next chapter so energising. There's a real sense of possibility, and I can't wait to see where we take it, together with our members.