Navigating challenges and seizing opportunities

This month, we are celebrating the amazing women who are an integral part of Crowe Ireland. We are shining a spotlight on their outstanding accomplishments and recognising their commitment to accelerating action in their daily lives.

In this interview, we discover audit manager Shironi Paliwal's journey from India to Ireland, her professional growth at Crowe, and her passion for progress.

Tell us about yourself.

My name is Shironi Paliwal, I am originally from India, and I moved to Ireland four years ago, which was a big change but also an amazing opportunity to grow both professionally and personally. I completed my qualification five years ago and am currently working with Crowe in its audit department. Outside of work, music has been a big part of my life. I love playing keyboard (I am in my learning phase) and just unwinding with my favourite playlists.

As a woman, what would you tell your younger self?

The only advice I would give to my younger self is “You are enough, just as you are”. You are strong and can achieve anything simply by being yourself.

Who is a woman who inspires you?

If I have to take just one name, then it would be JK Rowling. I am a big fan of the Harry Potter series, and I am inspired by the real-life story of its author. She is an inspiring figure for women worldwide because of her creativity, resilience and success despite challenges. She proved that failure is not the end – it is just a stepping stone to success. She became the first billionaire author, showing the world that women can achieve massive financial success through their creativity.

What does the theme of “Accelerate Action” mean to you and how is it visible in your life?

For me, Accelerate Action means taking proactive steps to advance in your profession, breaking barriers, embracing technology and striving for leadership roles. It’s about not just waiting for opportunities but actively creating them, pushing beyond limitations and continuously evolving to stay ahead. This theme is clearly visible in my own journey. I made the bold decision to move to a new country – not just for a change of scenery but to boost my career, challenge societal norms and overcome mental barriers. It was a step out of my comfort zone, requiring resilience, adaptability and a willingness to embrace new challenges. However, this decision has been the most empowering move I made, allowing me to grow both professionally and personally.

Beyond that, Accelerate Action is evident in my daily work as an audit manager. I take proactive measures to drive efficiency, implement innovative solutions and ensure compliance in an ever-changing regulatory environment. Whether it’s leveraging technology to streamline audit processes, mentoring young trainees or making informed decisions, I believe in taking action that leads to strong results. For me it’s about moving forward with purpose, breaking barriers and setting new benchmarks for success.

What made you want to move to Ireland and pursue your career in audit?

What made me want to do this was a deep desire for growth, both professionally and personally. I have always believed that progress comes from pushing boundaries, taking risks and stepping outside of your comfort zone. Staying in a familiar environment might have been the easier choice, but I knew that to truly accelerate my career, I had to challenge myself in new ways. I wanted to gain global exposure, work with people coming from diverse backgrounds and countries and embrace new perspectives that would shape me into a more well-rounded professional.

In my work, the same mindset drives me. I am motivated by the opportunity to bring innovation into audit processes, mentor others and contribute to an inclusive forward-thinking workplace. For me, this journey is about more than just career success, it is about proving that with determination and the right mindset, barriers can be broken, and new paths can be created.

How do you feel the theme “Accelerate Action” is visible in the workplace?

The theme is highly visible in my workplace. At Crowe, agility, efficiency and proactive approaches are essential for success.

We operate in a fast-paced environment where regulatory changes, technological advancements and client expectations are constantly evolving. Therefore, in order to stay ahead, we must embrace innovation, drive continuous improvement and take strategic actions that enhance audit quality and efficiency.

I see this theme reflected in many ways. We are transforming with data analytics. We are using data analytics tools to enhance accuracy, reduce manual effort and provide deeper insights to clients. The nature of audit work demands quick turnaround, effective collaboration and streamlined processes. Whether it’s meeting tight deadlines, adapting to new regulations or responding to client needs, taking decisive actions ensures we deliver value consistently. We also recognise the value of diverse leadership. By mentoring young professionals, supporting women in the firm and fostering a culture of inclusion, we accelerate progress for the next generations of auditors.