Ray C. Berja: From Balut Seller to CFO Pioneer

Around two decades ago, a young boy wrote in the front of his bedroom door that he wanted to be the most sought-after CFO in Asia-Pacific. Today, he is the first Filipino regional CFO at AirAsia Super App. Ray C. Berja stands as a seasoned business luminary with an unwavering commitment to driving positive change and spearheading digital transformation. His strategic financial management and commitment to innovation have been instrumental in his rise to prominence in the global business arena. His professional journey reflects a narrative of resilience, ambition, and an unrelenting commitment to drive transformative change, solidifying his stature as a luminary within the competitive business landscape. Ray diligently drives results, setting effective priorities and fostering an outcomes-based mindset. With a focus on innovation, he cultivates a culture of cost consciousness, believing in the collective contribution to the bottom line. Actively shaping strategies, Ray guides profitability and shapes both short- and long-term sustainable growth for the company’s bottom line.

Rooted in humble beginnings within a market in Piat, Cagayan, Ray’s formative years were characterised by earnest contributions to his family’s small store and entrepreneurial pursuits, notably selling balut during local festivities. These experiences forged a resolute determination and a robust work ethic that would shape his extraordinary trajectory. While initially drawn to a military career, Ray’s path evolved, compelling him to enrol as a dedicated working student at the Philippine School of Business Administration, where he honed his managerial acumen.

Presently, Ray commands pivotal roles as the Chief Financial Officer (CFO) and Regional Head for Tax, Compliance, and Procurement at AirAsia Super App. In these capacities, he orchestrates comprehensive financial strategies across expansive territories, spanning the Philippines, Malaysia, Thailand, and Indonesia, while overseeing tech support operations in India and spearheading expansion initiatives in Vietnam, Singapore, and South Korea. This panoramic oversight underscores his adeptness in navigating multifaceted global business landscapes with finesse and strategic acumen.

Ray’s exceptional leadership prowess hasn’t gone unnoticed. Acknowledged as a Circle of Excellence Awardee for the Global Filipino Executive of the Year at the prestigious Asia CEO Awards 2023, his visionary contributions have left an indelible mark on the industry. His aspirations, etched onto his bedroom door years ago, have propelled him to the forefront of sought-after CFOs in the Asia-Pacific region, a testament to his unwavering pursuit of excellence.

An academic stalwart, Ray’s educational journey boasts a master’s degree in business administration from the Ateneo de Manila University Graduate School of Business and Regis University in the United States. His quest for knowledge extends to achieving a Diploma in Financial Technology from Saïd Business School at the University of Oxford, complemented by certifications as a Certified Management Accountant and Certified Financial Consultant, amplifying his expertise in the field.

Beyond the accolades and professional achievements, Ray’s thought leadership stands as a beacon for resilience, agility, and the strategic infusion of digitalization to navigate the post-pandemic landscape. His advocacy for collaboration and a firm belief in integrating digital strategies into business operations underscore his visionary approach.

Ray’s narrative epitomises perseverance and foresight, evolving from humble beginnings to ascend as a multi-awarded regional executive. His journey stands as a compelling testament, inspiring others with its demonstration of unwavering dedication and strategic foresight. At AirAsia Super App, his leadership continues to chart new trajectories, contributing significantly to the evolution and growth of the industry. His visionary guidance is poised to shape the future of financial leadership in the dynamic and ever-evolving business ecosystem.