Deloitte’s People of Operate | KV Karthik

KV Karthik is the Forensic & Financial Crime compliance-services leader for Deloitte India. He also leads the AML/KYC Centre Of Excellence leader for delivery Deloitte India. Read how he applies his passion, innovative approach, expertise and wealth of experience to help multiple clients tackle complex financial and economic fraud and crimes.”

Interview questions:

Briefly, explain what you do at Deloitte.

I lead the Forensic and Financial Crime Compliance Services for Deloitte India. Besides this, I lead the India AML/KYC COE for .

How would you explain what you do to someone who knows nothing about Operate services?

I manage client-processes (operations) effectively by embedding continuous advantage with leading technologies and global leading practices in an outsourced or managed services model.

What does a typical day at work look like for you?

My work starts in the morning with reviewing emails, preparing for meetings, and setting priorities for the day. It continues with working on strategic projects, delegating tasks, and providing feedback to team members. The day ends with a reflection on achievements for the day and planning for the next day.

What's a common misconception about working in Operate services that you'd like to debunk?

The misconception is that Operate is neither cutting-edge advisory work nor profitable.

How did you end up in Operate?

Quite by accident. I had realised that clients are looking at long-term cost-effective and efficient ways to manage critical operations, by outsourcing and reducing overheads. This allows them to focus on core business objectives which helps us get into annuity business. I organically landed the Operate role when I identified and pursued this exciting opportunity where I knew I wanted to make an impact that matters.

What excites you about your role?

My role gives me the opportunity to help clients with in-depth experience and expertise in financial crime, fraud, and economic crimes, allowing them to address complex issues across various industries and locations. This is what makes it all an adventure!

What's the most challenging component of your job?

Managing multiple clients, balancing the workload and tight deadlines while keeping a razor focus on quality.

Tell us about an Operate services project you're most proud of working on in your career.

A client was struggling with managing a regulatory compliance deadline. We came in at a critical time and helped them meet the deadline. But most importantly, we were able to bring in efficiencies of over 40 percent in their process which helped us extend our contract on an Operate basis for the next three years. This was won against stiff competition from both other BIG Four organisations and boutique providers and helped us establish our credentials and showcase our capabilities with our foreign member firms.

What aspects of your career journey have taken you by surprise?

In our field, I always expect the unexpected. Nothing surprises me anymore.

What's one piece of advice you'd give your younger self about getting started in Operate?

Don't be afraid to ask questions. Think out of the box and be creative. Confidence is key, learn from the mistakes and move on.

What do you like to do outside of work? And why do you enjoy it/why is it so special to you?

Outside of work, I enjoy playing badminton, taking short trips with my family and watching movies or web-series. This is special because it allows me to stay fit as well as unwind in the company of my family.