Leaders Uncovered – Van-Mhel N. Soriano, RCA, CAT

Van-Mhel N. Soriano, RCA®, CAT®, is a distinguished finance professional with a robust academic and technical foundation. He holds a Bachelor of Science in Accountancy and has completed the requirements for a Master of Business Administration, awaiting graduation from Philippine Christian University.

His professional standing is elevated by his certification as an accounting technician. This strong educational background is complemented by his current role as a Revenue Officer I Assessment at the Bureau of Internal Revenue, a position that demands a high level of technical proficiency and a meticulous understanding of tax regulations and financial assessment.

His credentials are further enhanced by a wealth of progressive experience in both public service and the corporate sector. He has held several senior-level accounting and management positions, including Senior Accountant at Republic Glass Holdings Corporation and Tax Supervisor at Frey-Fil Corporation.

This diverse career path, spanning corporate finance, taxation, and even academia as a former Accounting Professor, demonstrates a comprehensive and versatile expertise in financial management, compliance, and leadership.

Motivation to pursue NIAT certification

“At the start of my career, I really want to work abroad. But I don’t have credentials that is recognized internationally. Therefore, I looked for a credential that would strengthen my technical foundation and give me international recognition. I am already hearing about NIAT before, but I did not take the certification exams yet.

Years after, I became an accounting instructor in the College of Management and Accountancy (CMA®) of Phinma-University of Pangasinan. Our dean wants our students to graduate with certifications like NCIII Bookkeeping and the CAT® Certifications. She is requiring all the students under the said College to pass NCIII Bookkeeping and CAT® Certification before graduating.

Upon knowing this, I also applied for the certification exams. And that’s it! That is the start of my NIAT journey: I took the certification exams, I passed all of them, and now, I am sharing my certification experience.”

Impact on career opportunities or confidence

“It boosted my confidence by validating my technical skills and providing global recognition. It also gave employers assurance that I had the right foundation, making me more competitive in both government and private roles.

Earning my certification from NIAT also gives me an advantage to the other job applicants. It has also an impact on the salary discussions and negotiations.”

Advice to aspiring accounting professionals considering NIAT certification

“To all the aspiring accounting professionals who are considering NIAT certification, GO FOR IT! NIAT provides a strong foundation in accounting and taxation, and it opens doors for both local and global opportunities. It’s also a great stepping stone toward CPA licensure, if ever you are still in hunt of the CPA license.”

Advice to prospective NIAT members

“Becoming a member of NIAT is an honor and privilege. It will help you in your professional network, learning resource, and industry recognition. If you are a member of NIAT, you will also receive emails on the upcoming trainings/seminars that will help you on your career growth.

To all who is considering to become a NIAT member, I advise you to take advantage of the opportunity for career growth and continuous learning.”