Career Insights with Ambition Episode 7 Samuel Samhan "Leading Beyond the Numbers"
Episode Summary:
In this inspiring episode of Career Insights with Ambition, host Chris Crollasits down with Samuel Samhan, CFO of BluGlass Limitedto uncover his remarkable journey spanning over two decades in finance and global leadership. Starting at EY in the Middle East, Sam's career took him across North Africa, the United States, and Australia, shaping his global outlook and adaptability. For him, accounting and finance has always been about helping ambitious companies turn big ideas into scalable, investible realities. Sam's story underscores the significance of global mobility, calculated risk-taking, and people-centric leadership.
Transitioning from health and wellness to becoming a CFO in the tech industry.
The moment that sparked Samuel's interest in pursuing a career in accounting.
Leadership lessons on growing resilience, adaptability, and team empowerment.
Why saying "yes" is important and could potentially transform your career.
The strength it takes to build a global career, embrace change, and lead with purpose.
Taking on new responsibilities and leading the team through uncertainty in challenging times.
The fastest way to progress is about being the quickest to learn, adapt, seek feedback, and adjust.
Chapters:
00:00 Introduction to Samuel Samhan
01:08 Sam shares his passion for cycling and Formula 1
02:40 The defining moment that launched Sam’s accounting career
05:52 Building resilience, adaptability, and self-belief
06:47 Why having strong teams and networks matter
08:45 Leading with empathy: nurturing teams and developing people
10:07 Sam’s moment of truth: stepping into leadership roles
13:03 Turning challenges into opportunities for growth
13:47 Words of wisdom for aspiring leaders
15:11 The critical role of people skills in leadership
Watch the full video of the podcast here:
Samuel’s Moment of Truth:
A defining moment came during an acquisition early in his career when team culture turned toxic under poor leadership. Instead of stepping back, Sam chose to lead without authority, focusing on clarity, communication, and team engagement. This pivotal moment pushed him toward leadership roles where he could shape strategy and impact beyond the numbers.
“At that point I really had two choices: sit back and complain or step up and quietly start leading and think of this more as an opportunity. Thankfully, I chose the latter.” – Samuel Samhan
Want to follow in Samuel’s footsteps? Are you asking yourself how do I become Chief Financial Officer?
Samuel’s Words of Wisdom:
Drawing from his own journey of turning challenges into opportunities, Sam shares three guiding principles for future leaders: 1. Lead with curiosity. In a world that never stops evolving, your ability to learn and adapt will always be your greatest advantage. 2. Work with intention. Success isn’t just about effort; it’s about building smart routines that move you closer to your goals every day. 3. Put people first. Technology will keep advancing, but human connection is irreplaceable. Invest in relationships, grow your network, and embrace opportunities, even when they push you out of your comfort zone.
“Curiosity, kindness, and resilience are superpowers that will carry you far.” – Samuel Samhan
Career Insights with Ambition is hosted by Chris Crolla, Director of Ambition, Sydney. Chris started his recruitment career as a resourcer in internal audit back in 2011 and has worked his way up. Chris now leads the Sydney teams including accounting support, qualified finance, and technology & transformation. Chris provides unequivocal support, guidance, coaching, and direction. A keen sports fan, and proud husband and father, he’s passionate about building better futures for the leaders of tomorrow.
.jpg)
.jpg)