Embracing Tech & Leading with Strategy | Malayalam

How CA Ranjit Karthikeyan drives growth and innovation in accounting with teamwork and tech

The Coffee with CA show took an exciting turn with its first Malayalam episode, highlighting the inspiring story of CA Ranjit Karthikeyan. Selected for his dynamic journey and strategic insight, Karthikeyan brought a new regional flavor to the show, making the episode special for both established professionals and aspiring chartered accountants.

From literary dreams to a surprising career in CA

As a young student, Karthikeyan dreamed of diving into English literature. His father, though, nudged him to choose science, keeping doors open for the future. Eventually, chartered accountancy (CA) caught Karthikeyan’s attention, seen as a prestigious leap above a bank manager’s role.

Key decisions from Karthikeyan’s early life:

• Chose English literature, then shifted to science under his father’s guidance.
• Discovered CA’s potential during college.
• Decided to take the CA path despite no family background in accounting.

Navigating CA challenges & the mysterious “X Factor”

Chartered accountancy seemed daunting, known for its demands and the need for balance. Karthikeyan, however, jumped in, guided by the idea that ignorance is bliss. Back then, India had fewer than 100,000 CAs; now, the figure crosses 420,000. Even today, he believes fortune, fate, or the “X factor” often shapes careers in ways hard to explain.

Ranjit Karthikeyan Associates LLP: Building a vision

After qualifying in 1992, Karthikeyan faced hurdles setting up his practice. He opened a Calicut branch in 1996–97, and tried merging with other CA firms, but soon realized timing was key. The bold merger ended with a demerger, but growth continued. Today, his firm is thriving:

• Started in 1994.
• Grew to about 120 employees.
• Has offices in Calicut, Trivandrum, Cochin, and a Dubai affiliate (RK Global).

Leadership with a focus on empowerment

Karthikeyan views himself not as the sole driver but as a spark for the team. He noted:

“I always tell people to make me irrelevant. Only then can I do more at a higher level.”

Making himself unnecessary isn’t about stepping back, but about building a team that runs reliably even when he’s away. Delegating tasks and encouraging independence lets the firm thrive.

From law practice to strategic advisory

Karthikeyan’s career began briefly as a lawyer before CA truly captured him. Over time, with a growing team:

• He moved from routine accounting and audits to focus on strategic advisor roles.
• He now mainly tackles business advisory and higher-level tax appeals.

Chairmanship at SIRC Thiruvananthapuram: Achievements that stand out

Karthikeyan played a key role in the Thiruvananthapuram branch of the SIRC, serving in different capacities over six years. As chairman in 2004–05, the branch won India’s Best Branch award—a first for any Kerala branch. He also set up India’s first in-house ICAI computer training center with support from T. N. Manoharan.

DISA certification and tech-readiness

Karthikeyan was in the first batch of the Diploma in Information Systems Audit (DISA), traveling from Trivandrum to Chennai and Coimbatore for training and exams. The initial career benefit was limited, but it set a strong foundation for adopting technology in his practice.

Benefits of DISA:

• Early exposure to IT and audit integration
• Stronger understanding of digital systems
• Positioned him well as accounting moved online

How digital disruption is changing accounting

Karthikeyan draws lessons from Kodak and Nokia: failing to adapt to tech can make even giants irrelevant. Accounting now faces rapid change:

• Bookkeeping and auditing are increasingly automated or outsourced.
• Technologies like GST, digital transactions, and blockchain reshape compliance.
• CAs must shift from data entry to advisory and analytics.
• Those who resist change risk losing relevance.

New skills for today’s accountants

Tools like Zoho Books automate reconciliations and reporting, while cloud and ERP systems redefine workflows. Human errors change—but don’t disappear. Successful accountants now need to:

• Master software for daily tasks.
• Move towards advisory roles.
• Guide clients through compliance and tech transitions.

Insightful advice for the next generation

Karthikeyan sees the future of CA demanding:

• Tech-savviness and the ability to learn new skills.
• Openness to multidisciplinary roles—similar to how gamers became skilled surgeons thanks to fine motor control.
• A mindset that values lifelong learning as rules, jobs, and technology change.

The changing CA profession: Teamwork, technology, and new challenges

The era of the lone practitioner is fading. Clients now want advisors who can handle taxes, company law, regulation, and succession planning. In southern states like Kerala and Tamil Nadu, demographic shifts raise challenges for succession in CA firms. Tech talent and broad expertise are more necessary than ever.

Personal insights and lighthearted moments

When asked about leisure, Karthikeyan smiled and said he’d “do nothing.” If not a CA, he’d have joined the Air Force. Given a dream dinner guest, he’d pick Subhas Chandra Bose—hoping to ask him to join in his quest for freedom.

Closing thoughts

Ranjit Karthikeyan’s story highlights how leadership, adaptability, and open-mindedness set lasting examples for accountants. His journey stands as a reminder that growth and success come from teamwork and boldly facing change—qualities every professional can learn from.