Mohsena Khanom

I am Mohsena Khanom, a Fellow of the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants (FCCA) and an affiliate of the Chartered Institute of Public Finance and Accountancy (CIPFA), with over 11 years of professional experience in finance, strategic planning, and entrepreneurship development. My career has been driven by a passion for helping businesses grow through sound financial management, investment readiness, and leadership grounded in integrity and practical insight.

Until January 2024, I served as the Financial Controller at Startup Bangladesh Limited, the flagship venture capital fund under the ICT Division of the Government of Bangladesh. In that role, I led the finance team, implemented robust operational systems, and oversaw the disbursement of over $4 million in investments to 15 promising startups. My work focused on aligning financial strategy with impactful execution to strengthen the startup ecosystem in Bangladesh.

In 2017, I co-founded De Tempete Limited, where I continue to advise entrepreneurs and businesses on financial readiness, valuation, and strategic growth. Prior to that, I held several senior roles at BDCOM Online Limited, including Head of Internal Audit and Business Analyst, where I was involved in internal control, finance, and supply chain operations. My early experience spans finance positions at JITA Social Business Bangladesh Ltd. and Tech Valley Networks Ltd., where I developed a strong foundation in financial management within both mission-driven and tech sectors.

I earned a B.Sc. in Applied Accounting from Oxford Brookes University (UK) and have pursued a range of professional credentials including the Advanced Certificate for Management Professionals (IBA, University of Dhaka), IIAB membership, and Income Tax Practitioner certification. These qualifications support my work across ERP platforms, compliance, strategic planning, and financial analytics.

My passion for developing others has led me to become deeply engaged in capacity building and mentorship, particularly for women entrepreneurs and early-stage businesses. I have trained and mentored more than 700 entrepreneurs through programs with organizations such as WE Connect International, Women and e-Commerce Trust (WE), Bangabandhu Innovation Grant (BIG), Eastern Bank Limited, and the Bangladesh Hi-Tech Park Authority. My sessions typically focus on financial planning, business documentation, compliance, and investment preparation.

Throughout my career, I have been honored with awards including the National Advocacy Award 2020 (Champion) by ACCA, the WE-TARA Women Entrepreneurship Award 2019 (Best Business Innovation), and several recognition awards from BDCOM for performance and project success.

In addition to my professional work, I’m an approved trainer and assessor for the SEIP project under the Ministry of Finance and have been conducting training on ACCA papers, investment readiness, taxation, and business communication since 2008. My writing has appeared in national newspapers and magazines, and I have contributed as a speaker and panelist at various expos, trade fairs, and TV programs.

Today, I remain dedicated to leveraging my experience to empower businesses and individuals, drive strategic growth, and promote inclusive development through financial leadership and mentorship.