About Me
We are experts dedicated to empowering businesses & leaders through keynote speaking, consulting, and training. Our approach drives success by delivering tailored solutions that make a lasting impact.
About Me
Trusted by CFOs. Respected by Boards. Known for Saying What Others Won’t.
I’m Amna Zaidi — Chartered Accountant, strategic advisor, and founder of Ahqenza, the UK’s only firm focused solely on CFO transformation assurance and leadership support.
For more than 20 years, I’ve worked alongside senior finance leaders in high-stakes roles. I’ve helped deliver, rescue, and reshape multi-million-pound transformation programmes where credibility, control, and commercial value matter most.
I began my career in banking, reporting to the board in my early twenties. Since then, I’ve led transformation from every angle — inside global firms like NatWest, Deloitte, and Lloyds HBOS, and now as an independent advisor. I understand how change really works — and what happens when it doesn’t.
I Help CFOs and Finance Leaders Who Can’t Afford to Fail
You’re leading change, defending your leadership, and managing multiple pressures. You don’t need more slide decks.
You need someone who gets it — commercially, politically, and personally.
That’s why I go beyond strategy and assurance. I work as a critical partner to CFOs and programme sponsors when the pressure is high and decisions carry weight.
Whether you’re leading a £10M+ transformation, facing loss of momentum, or preparing for a pivotal board meeting, I help you stay clear-headed, focused, and in control.
I use structured, scenario-tested methods like my ICE framework to help you lead with composure, creativity, and commercial edge when it counts.
In one recent engagement, I helped recover over £3 million from a stalled digital finance programme in under 60 days, without disrupting daily operations.
Credentials That Count in the Boardroom
I’m a Fellow Chartered Accountant (ICAEW) and a Chartered Manager (CMgr MCMI).
I serve on the Audit Registration Committee at ICAEW, helping to uphold standards across the UK audit profession.
I hold the title of Liveryman at the Worshipful Company of Chartered Accountants.
I’ve delivered and recovered complex transformation programmes across banking, healthcare, government, and regulated industries.
I also speak, train, and write on strategic leadership, transformation, and influence without authority.
Alongside my consulting work, I serve as an Associate Lecturer at Cranfield School of Management and teach on the UCL MBA programme.
Why Clients Trust Me
I don’t sell systems. I don’t offer generic solutions. I work independently, with no ties to vendors or hidden agendas. You get clarity, experience, and support you can trust.
When I step into a programme, I get straight to work. I spot what’s not working, uncover the value you’ve left on the table, and give you a clear plan to move forward.
“Amna has a rare ability to combine commercial rigour with deep human insight. She sees around corners — and says what others won’t.”
~ Client Testimonial
More Than a Consultant. I’m on a Mission.
I don’t just fix failing programmes or negotiate better vendor terms, though I do both when needed. I work with finance leaders like you who have led without authority, influenced without permission, and had to push boundaries just to be recognised. That’s why I wrote Unwinnable No More. It’s part memoir, part manual, and a message to anyone who’s been told to stay in their lane. It speaks to the kind of leadership we need more of — bold, commercially sharp, and deeply human.
I Built Ahqenza Because This Work Deserves Better
At Ahqenza, we deliver what most transformation partners don’t:
- Board-grade assurance — tailored for CFOs, not systems
- Leadership uplift — grounded in the commercial realities of finance
- Recovery that sticks — because surface wins don’t last
- No jargon, no gimmicks, and no wasted time
My Core Beliefs
Transformation doesn’t succeed unless people do.
Leadership is built — not bestowed.
The right advice pays for itself — in results and reputation.
If you’re leading finance transformation and need an advisor who understands the pressure, protects your credibility, and gets things done — I’d be honoured to work with you.
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Take the next step towards unlocking your business’s full potential. Whether you’re seeking engaging keynote speaking, strategic consulting, or impactful training, we have the expertise to help you succeed. Let’s work together to create lasting results.
Frequently Asked Questions
Have questions? We’ve got you covered! Explore our frequently asked questions to learn more about how our services can benefit your business.
What types of businesses do you work with?
We work with businesses of all sizes, from startups to large corporations, across various industries. Our services are tailored to meet the unique needs of each client.
How do I book a keynote speaker for my event?
Simply reach out to us via the contact form on our website or give us a call. We’ll discuss your event requirements and match you with the perfect speaker for your audience.
What is the duration of your training programs?
Our training programs vary depending on the client’s needs. They can range from a few hours to several weeks, and we’ll work with you to design a schedule that works best for your team.
Do you offer consulting for specific industries?
Yes, we have experience in a wide range of industries including finance, healthcare, technology, and more. We tailor our consulting services to the specific challenges and goals of your industry.
What makes your services different from other consultants or trainers?
Our services are personalized and designed to drive real, measurable change. We don’t offer one-size-fits-all solutions; instead, we take the time to understand your business and deliver solutions that truly make an impact.
Let’s Talk About Your Business Needs.
Whether you’re looking for inspiring keynotes, transformative strategic consulting, or impactful leadership training, we have the expertise to drive your success.
