Leaders List interview: 60 seconds with Nomaan Ilyas, Frontier Group

Date: 02 Oct 2024

Karen Jones

This week’s 60-second piece is dedicated to Nomaan Ilyas, Managing Director at Frontier Fiscal Services.

What does a typical day look like for you?

A typical day for me includes Zoom meetings with potential clients or sometimes in-person meetings at our offices, although I make time to discuss simple to complex technical matters with the team, especially juniors. 

Tell us about some recent, interesting client instructions/requests you have received.

Having to travel from London to Manchester to help a football player organise himself after being scammed by an associate…

What challenges do your clients face and how are you helping your clients to overcome them?

As our clients invariably have complex cross border issues, navigating both tax and banking systems can be a challenge. Some cases can be quite challenging and stressful for clients, so in order to take away the headache, our service can be quite hands on.

What is your proudest professional achievement?

I would say becoming MD of the tax team at Frontier Group in my early 30’s and then subsequently acquiring the firm with my colleague. Our building is directly opposite the offices of my first job – it feels like a full-circle moment when I see the old building on my way into work.

What do you consider to be the most important attributes for a leader?

Leading by example and being available to guide the team when they require it.

Who do you most admire and why?

I admire Steve Jobs, for his visionary leadership and communication skills. He had a unique ability to blend creativity with technology, inspire others, and present complex ideas in a simple, compelling way. His relentless pursuit of excellence and innovation continues to shape the world today.

Where was the last place you travelled to for work or pleasure?

For work, it has to be Mauritius, where we have an office…

If you weren’t in this industry, what else might you be doing?

I would say investment management.

How do you relax after a long day?

I am a big cricket fan, so playing cricket in the summer( as well as being the chairman which is not relaxing!).I also enjoy playing tennis and going to the gym.