Leaders Uncovered – Dearyl Valdez, CAT
Dearyl Valdez, CAT®, is a driven accounting professional whose career reflects both academic rigor and global ambition. Armed with multiple credentials, including Certified Accounting Technician (CAT), TESDA National Level 3 Bookkeeping Passer, and Certified Management Accountant (CMA), she has steadily built a strong foundation in the financial services field. Her background demonstrates a rare balance between technical expertise, practical application, and a forward-looking vision for the role of accounting in shaping business outcomes.
From her early years as an Accounting Assistant at SM Supermalls to her current role as Analyst I, Investment Risk and Analytical Services at Northern Trust in Chicago, Illinois, Dearyl has consistently demonstrated the ability to adapt and excel in high-performance environments. Her career journey shows not only her mastery of accounting and finance but also her resilience, determination, and commitment to growth—values that continue to guide her in her international professional pursuits.
What Led Her to Pursue Certification through the National Institute of Accounting Technicians?
When asked what motivated her to pursue certification through NIAT, Dearyl explained:
“Speaking truthfully, when I was still in 3rd year college we started taking accounting certification through NIAT because I took up Bachelor of Science in Accounting Information System, a non-board course so alternatively, we are required to obtain and pass the level 1-3 examination as part of our graduation requirement. The program is designed to prepare students for leading international certifications from globally recognized professional organizations of information systems auditing and security practitioners.”
“We are expected to apply accounting, finance and computer skills in the context of the business, influencing the decisions, actions and behaviours of others and, thus, assisting and/or leading the organization at different levels. These professional certification is not a replacement for accredited degree work, but instead is supposed to complement my education or professional experience in my field for the purpose of career advancement, broader knowledge in accounting principles and elevated skillsets.”
How Did Earning Her NIAT Certification Impact Her Career Opportunities or Confidence in the Field?
Dearyl described the significant role NIAT certification has played in shaping her life and career:
“The impact of passing the NIAT plays a significant role on what I am right now. First, on my studies, I was able to have an in depth understanding of accounting principles, business management, bookkeeping procedures, payroll and financial statements. Second, on my career, I was able to land my first job at SM Supermalls as an Accounting Assistant and it lead me to advance on my new current position as an Analyst I Investment Risk and Analytical Services in Northern Trust located at Chicago, Illinois, an American global bank.
“Being part of a multinational organization expands my professional network on an international scale. It is unrivalled. Third, on my family and myself, it gives me the confidence that I can do more pushing my personal limits at its best and give back to my family who are the source of my motivation, their sacrifices they made cannot be paid by any monetary value.”
What Advice Would She Give to Aspiring Accounting Professionals Considering NIAT Certification?
When asked what advice she would give to aspiring accountants, Dearyl responded:
“It is difficult, you have long way to go now but as the time goes by, you’ll achieve it and it is worth taking for. The only advice I could impart to them is to stay focus but at the same time enjoy the moment. Life can feel hard due to unexpected setbacks, societal factors, and our own expectations but it is all part of our well-being. Moreover, enjoying the process while being focused, can make the journey more rewarding and sustainable. Learn to balance focus with enjoyment.”
“Do not be too hard on yourself as I always brought this bible verse with me from Proverbs 3:25-26 quoted ‘Do not be afraid of sudden terror or of the ruin of the wicked, when it comes, for the Lord will be your confidence and will keep your foot from being caught.’”