CEO Insights Magazine

In today's dynamic age, the CFO or finance executive plays a pivotal role in navigating the complexities of the business landscape. With rapidly evolving markets, disruptive technologies, and changing regulations, their strategic financial expertise is indispensable. Their ability to drive innovation, manage capital effectively, and identify growth opportunities is vital for sustainable success in this ever-changing business environment. Ernest Joseph Gomez is one such highly accomplished and seasoned finance executive with a proven track record of delivering outstanding results in financial management. With his expertise in optimizing revenue growth, strategic spending, and fostering multifunctional collaborations, Ernest has consistently achieved phenomenal success throughout his career.

Currently serving as the Chief Financial Officer at ISUPPORT, Ernest oversees critical functions and acts as the primary partner to the executive team, playing a crucial role in unlocking value from the organization's operations. Recognized for his financial acumen and exceptional leadership abilities, Ernest continues to make significant contributions to the finance industry.

In an exclusive interaction with CEO Insights Asia, Ernest Joseph Gomez elucidates more about his professional traits and his unique play at ISUPPORT WORLDWIDE.

Give a brief account of your professional background and experiences? What is the motivation that fuels your daily routines?

I am a finance professional by training and trade, with a strong academic foundation in finance from the University of the Philippines. My career began at MERALCO, where I worked as an App Admin, creating models and simulations. I then moved to Coca-Cola Philippines as the Head of Financial Analysis, specializing in pricing, impact analysis, and revenue management. Intrigued by the BPO industry, I joined EXL Service as VP of Financial Planning and Analysis before assuming the role of CFO at Qualfon Philippines. Fast-forward five years, and I was given the opportunity to join a new family in ISUPPORT, continuing my role as CFO and partnering with very innovative folks in delivering value and client delight. I'm an advocate of continuous learning, and I strive to be better every day. The desire to be better than yesterday, than my previous self, propels me forward.

How would you define ISUPPORT WORLDWIDE as and its current position in the market?

ISUPPORT WORLDWIDE is a unique award-winning organization that offers customized, cost-effective solutions to help organizations scale quickly. With two INC5000 Awards, ISUPPORT is known for its ability to simplify the process of accessing topnotch Philippine talent and launching operations efficiently. Its streamlined approach and commitment to delivering high value make it a preferred choice in the market.

As the CFO, what are the factors you look at when determining the profitability of an investment?

Cashflow and EBITDA- Cash flow enables the continuation and expansion of operations, unlocking various opportunities for the company. EBITDA is not only the standard metric in the valuation of companies but also allows the monitoring of actual operational efficiency over time and paints a pretty clear picture of how profitable a company is by dissolving unwarranted aspects. And there are also some qualitative aspects that can help determine profitability, like portfolio quality, employee turnover, and culture.

Could you reflect on some of the toughest challenges you have encountered? How did you overcome them, and what did you learn from them?

The Covid19 pandemic surely takes this one. It disrupted global finance teams on an unprecedented scale, causing operational shifts, supply chain disruptions, and scarcity of capital and manpower. ISUPPORT was deeply impacted by the pandemic. One of our main clients disengaged, resulting in a sudden financial setback, shifting us from a positive EBITDA position to a negative one overnight. Joining amid this crisis, I faced numerous problems and engaged in intense firefighting. I had to go to the basics. I took a textbook approach, focusing on getting the right people and implementing efficient processes. I formed a team of experts, made strategic cuts, and invested in critical infrastructure. Improving payroll efficiency demonstrated financial strength, boosting employee confidence. We scrutinized expenses, sought cost-saving opportunities, and enforced strict approval processes. I spearheaded the digital transformation of accounting and payroll systems, ensuring compliance and seamless integration. Streamlining procurement processes, we leveraged our position to establish value-added deals and generate savings.

These efforts, combined with continuous collaboration with various departments and stakeholders, led to ISUPPORT more than doubling in size over two years. We received multiple awards, including two INC5000 accolades, and are poised for further success.

What is the future destination you are heading towards?

We will definitely be number one in the offshoring space. We are committed to achieving this by fostering a culture of excellence where our employees feel valued, productive, and fulfilled. At the same time, we strive to cultivate strong relationships with our clients, treating them like family and ensuring their utmost satisfaction.

Ernest Joseph Gomez, Chief Financial Officer, ISUPPORT WORLDWIDE

Ernest Joseph Gomez is a highly accomplished CFO with a strong track record of delivering exceptional financial management results. Recognized for his financial acumen and exceptional leadership abilities, Ernest continues to make significant contributions to the finance industry.

• Hobbies: PC Gaming, Military Fiction

• Favorite Cuisine: Italian

• Favorite Book: Brothers Karamazov, The Richest Man in Babylon

• Favorite Travel Destination: USA