PKF O’Connor Davies Welcomes Suma Chander
Seasoned technology and operations executive to head up Firm’s newly established Digital Transformation and Advisory Services Practice
PKF O’Connor Davies, one of the nation’s largest accounting, tax and advisory firms, announced that it has hired Suma Chander as Partner at PKF O’Connor Davies Advisory LLC. With over 25 years of experience driving technology strategy for organizations of all sizes, Chander has been named Practice Lead of the Firm’s newly established Digital Transformation and Advisory Services (DTAS) practice. The DTAS practice – which will operate out of the Firm’s New York City office – supports clients by selecting, implementing and optimizing customized technology solutions that scale their operations, fulfill core growth objectives and drive long-term efficiencies.
“With a deep background in digital strategy and a proven business acumen, Suma is well-positioned to deliver the insights and perspectives necessary to help clients solve their most pressing technological challenges,” said Jonathan Moore, Partner-in-Charge of Advisory Services at PKF O’Connor Davies Advisory LLC. “I look forward to her leadership of our brand-new DTAS practice as we continue to expand our capabilities and seek out additional opportunities to share our industry-leading expertise with clients.”
The new practice area will support clients in integrating customized, enterprise-wide technology initiatives into all facets of their operations and assist them in taking full advantage of technology-driven business opportunities. The DTAS practice offers support in the areas of strategic digital advisory, data governance, IT platform implementation, IT program and project management and finance automation and controllership.
Before joining the Firm, Chander held a variety of C-Suite roles while leading the technology operations of two hedge funds. In those positions, she was responsible for building public and private partnerships, negotiating partnership agreements, securing government grants and proposing technological solutions that drove innovation and profitability. She also continued to hone her skills in product management, software development and revenue maximization.
“PKF O’Connor Davies feels like a natural fit for my experience and focus, and I look forward to collaborating with my colleagues as we develop the Firm’s newest solutions,” Chander said. “Leading the DTAS practice presents an exciting opportunity for me to take the next step in my career and make a meaningful, positive impact on the Firm and its clients.”
In addition to her professional accomplishments, Chander has focused on various impact and advocacy initiatives. She is particularly passionate about working with social enterprises and philanthropic organizations that promote skill training and employment for disadvantaged populations. She is the President and Lead Member of the Board of Directors of the Kalinga Institute of Social Sciences, a Member of the Advisory Board of Creative-Million USA, a Member of the Columbia Impact Investing Club, and a Member of the Board of Directors and the Director of Fundraising and Sustainability for the Ripa Ladrang Foundation. She earned a bachelor’s degree in Electronic and Instrumentation Engineering from Kakatiya University, as well as a master’s degree in Public Policy and International Economics from Columbia University.
PKF O’Connor Davies continues to expand through organic growth and acquisitions on the East Coast and beyond. It has supported this growth with a strategic combination of promoting from within coupled with an ongoing focus on top-tier external hires.