In our latest interview, we had the privilege of speaking with Amar Mistry, the CEO of AVC Wise, a figure known for his dynamic leadership and innovative approach in the business world. During our conversation with Mr. Mistry, his journey from a working-class background to becoming a leader in the business sector was both inspiring and enlightening.
He shared insights into his educational pursuits, starting with being the first in his family to attend university, to his initial reluctance towards a career in accounting. Mr. Mistry’s story is a vivid illustration of determination and versatility, as he navigated various roles and challenges in the corporate sector before establishing himself as a mentor and guide for other entrepreneurs. Despite never starting his own business, his experience working with over 20 entrepreneurs in various industries has endowed him with a wealth of knowledge and expertise. Mr. Mistry’s perspective on career growth, particularly his emphasis on hard work and adaptability, offers invaluable lessons for anyone aspiring to make their mark in the business world.
His approach to career development, characterized by persistence and a willingness to explore unconventional paths, is a testament to his tenacity and innovative spirit. This interview not only sheds light on Mr. Mistry’s professional journey but also offers inspiration and guidance for those looking to carve their own path in the ever-evolving landscape of business.
From Campus Struggles to Corporate Triumphs: Amar Mistry’s Unconventional Journey to Success
As we delved deeper into our chat with Amar, he mused, “I guess it’s a bit of a rags to riches story,” reflecting on his journey from a working-class background to the corporate limelight. Amar wasn’t just the first in his family to attend university; he was the trailblazer who turned an ordinary accounting degree into a springboard for a remarkable career. His tale isn’t just about getting a degree; it’s about reshaping the narrative of what one can achieve with it.
Despite his academic background in accounting, Amar never felt entirely at home with the title of an accountant. “I didn’t really like being called an accountant,” he confessed, a hint of a smile in his voice. It wasn’t disdain for the profession but a belief that he had more to offer. This mindset propelled him through a decade in various corporate roles, where he absorbed the essence of running a business. It’s this phase that laid the foundation for his current role – a mentor working with entrepreneurs, shaping dreams into realities.
I didn’t really like being called an accountant
Amar MistryCEO of AVC Wise
Amar’s approach to career progression is refreshingly unconventional. He candidly shared, “I never really liked being called an accountant… I felt I had more to offer.” His journey is a testament to the power of self-belief and resilience. Amar’s story is not just about climbing the corporate ladder; it’s about creating his own path, one that’s less about titles and more about impact. This philosophy resonates particularly with those at the crossroads of their careers, searching for more than just a job title. Amar Mistry is a living example that sometimes, the best way to find your place in the world is to create it yourself.
Charting New Paths: Amar’s Journey from Excel Whiz to Business Innovator
Amar’s story took a fascinating turn when he found himself in a corporate role, a small part of a much larger machine. It was here, next to an Excel expert named Trev, that Amar’s journey truly began to diverge from the typical corporate path. “I’ve never been one for wasting my time,” Amar shared, his voice tinged with a mix of reflection and humor. This mindset, coupled with his newly acquired Excel prowess, led him to the heart of financial modeling. Amar’s enthusiasm was palpable as he recounted how understanding the intricate workings of a business felt like unlocking a secret code. “It’s not just about creating a business; it’s about making those small tweaks and adjustments that have a big impact,” he said, summarizing his epiphany.
I’ve never been one for wasting my time
Amar MistryCEO of AVC Wise
The real turning point came when Amar began interacting with directors and PLC executives. Immersed in strategic conversations, he found himself translating complex spreadsheet data into real-world applications. “It was brilliant,” he said, his voice filled with a sense of discovery. “It gave me a solid foundation for what I could build on.” This experience was more than just a job; it was an education in the finer aspects of business strategy and growth. Amar’s narrative took a reflective turn as he described how this period laid the groundwork for his transition into working with startups and entrepreneurs.
But Amar’s journey was not without its challenges. When asked about his departure from the corporate world, his response was thoughtful. “My parents always believed in whatever I was going to do,” he explained, dismissing the notion of parental pressure. Instead, Amar spoke of an inner realization, a moment of clarity that came while he was rapidly climbing the corporate ladder. “I always felt that every day was racing into the next, and I wondered what it was all going to mean in the end.” It was this introspection, combined with a candid conversation with his mentor, that propelled him towards a new path. “As soon as I knew I had to look for an alternate option, I didn’t sit down and think about finding a job working with entrepreneurs,” Amar mused. “I just knew I had to find myself.” His journey is a testament to the power of self-belief and the courage to forge one’s own path.
A Leap into the Unknown: Amar’s Transition from Corporate Comfort to Entrepreneurial Adventure
Amar’s journey took a pivotal turn when he decided to join a small but ambitious company. “Nobody’s going to tell me no,” he declared with a mix of determination and excitement. It was in this smaller setting, generating a modest £3 million in revenue, that Amar first encountered the frenetic world of entrepreneurship. Describing his initial meeting with the company’s owner, Amar recalled, “It didn’t feel like a job interview, more like a conversation.” This interaction wasn’t just about exchanging ideas; it was a clash of perspectives, a spar of thoughts, leaving Amar energized and eager to be a part of something groundbreaking. “I wanted an opportunity to be part of a team that’s going to achieve half of what this guy just said,” he reflected, his decision marking the beginning of an exhilarating new chapter.
It didn’t feel like a job interview, more like a conversation
Amar MistryCEO of AVC Wise
In his new role, Amar found himself in the midst of a vibrant branding agency, dealing with luxury hospitality resorts and operating significantly in Dubai. “The business was losing money,” Amar recounted, his tone shifting to one of urgency. This revelation thrust him into immediate action, undertaking a restructuring exercise that was starkly different from his previous corporate experiences. Decision-making was swift, and Amar found himself in the challenging position of reducing staff, a process he described as a “real dose of reality.” It was during this period that Amar’s adaptability and capacity to compartmentalize became apparent, crucial skills in the high-pressure world of startups.
Reflecting on the tough decisions he had to make, Amar shared a profound insight: “It’s not about you.” As a manager, he learned the importance of handling layoffs with humanity and sensitivity. “You might be having a bad day,” he noted, “but the person on the other side of the table is losing their job.” This experience taught him the delicate balance of being direct yet compassionate, a lesson that would shape his approach to leadership. Amar’s story is more than just a career transition; it’s a journey of personal growth and a testament to the challenges and rewards of stepping into the unpredictable world of entrepreneurship.
Navigating Change: Amar’s Journey from Corporate Structure to Entrepreneurial Flexibility
Amar, in our interview, painted a vivid picture of his transition from the structured world of corporate finance to the dynamic realm of entrepreneurship. “I’ve always been able to just section things off,” he began, describing his ability to compartmentalize as a superpower in the fast-paced environment of a growing business. This skill, he explained, was invaluable in managing the unpredictability and fluid nature of growth businesses. Amar’s tone was reflective as he recounted his experience reshaping a four-year-old business. “They were a bunch of pals, mates, just having a good time,” he said, his voice tinged with the complexity of introducing necessary but tough changes. This phase of his career was marked by difficult decisions, especially when it came to letting people go. “It’s not about you; it’s about the other person,” Amar emphasized, highlighting the human aspect of business decisions.
I’ve always been able to just section things off
Amar MistryCEO of AVC Wise
Delving into his current venture with AVC Wise, Amar shared his passion for early-stage businesses and the importance of financial education. “We help people plan for their future,” he said, explaining how AVC Wise initially focused on pension schemes but has since expanded to cover broader aspects of financial well-being. Amar’s excitement was palpable as he talked about upcoming projects, including a platform launch and various financial tools. “It’s services tailored to the individual,” he said, a testament to his belief in personalized solutions.
Reflecting on his role and future ambitions, Amar shared his vision for building generational wealth through multiple business ventures. “It’s about intention,” he said, stressing the importance of having a clear focus and purpose. His advice to those starting out? “Trust in your abilities and do the hard graft.” Amar’s journey, marked by determination and adaptability, offers valuable insights for anyone looking to break free from the corporate treadmill and embrace the entrepreneurial spirit. His final words encapsulate the essence of his message: “Run hard and fast on the entrepreneurial treadmill; it’s a journey of relentless pursuit and rewarding challenges.”
