Anjulika Salhan: Trailblazing Fintech Entrepreneur and Technology Leader
The 10 Most Enterprising Women of the Year 2024
Anjulika Salhan, a distinguished fintech entrepreneur and two-time English Women’s Award winner, has been at the forefront of technology and software development since 1996. Armed with a background in mathematics, she is a Fellow of the Institute of Mathematics and its Applications (IMA), a Chartered Mathematician, a Chartered Scientist, and holds memberships in prestigious organizations such as the European Mathematical Society and the Institute and Faculty of Actuaries.
With a proven track record spanning over two decades, Anjulika has demonstrated her prowess in leveraging technology to solve complex problems across diverse sectors. Her journey includes nearly 10 years at Malvern Panalytical, a Spectris Company, where she led technological advancements in high-tech instruments using laser technology, ultrasound, and enhanced digital imaging. Collaborating with Schlumberger, she played a key role in developing technology for detecting oil bubbles in the sea, and with Rugby Cement, she contributed to the field of oil well cement using mathematical chemistry. Anjulika has also been involved in a MOD project on underwater explosion.
Currently serving as the Managing Director of System Holdings Ltd, Salhan Accountants, and Xpert Technologies, Anjulika continues to drive innovation in the business and technology landscape. At System Holdings, she focuses on using emerging technologies to enhance agility and meet customer needs globally. As the Director of Salhan Accountants, an award-winning firm, she has elevated processes and client services through the strategic use of technology. Simultaneously, at Xpert Technologies, Anjulika’s leadership is revolutionizing business processes for SMEs across the UK, with a particular emphasis on leveraging artificial intelligence to provide cutting-edge solutions.
The impact of Anjulika’s work extends beyond the tech sector, as the technology developed by Xpert Technology is seamlessly integrated into the operations of Salhan Accountants, benefiting accountancy and business clients.
The Language of Technology in Leadership
Anjulika highlights that mathematics serves as the language of technology. As an applied mathematician, she has successfully applied mathematical principles across various technology sectors, including defense, oil, pharmaceuticals, and cement. Her training in mathematics has not only contributed to designing state-of-the-art software systems but has also influenced her approach to leadership, organizational structure, and innovation.
Anjulika’s mathematical training has been instrumental in anticipating future industry requirements, allowing her to stay ahead in the dynamic landscape of technology. This perspective emphasizes the versatility and predictive power that a mathematical foundation brings to her work in diverse technological domains.
Technological Expertise
Anjulika has demonstrated her adeptness at leveraging technology to overcome challenging problems, and a notable instance highlights her skillful problem-solving. While working on an algorithm for a high-tech instrument, a post-release issue arose due to the requirement for additional electronic parts. Drawing on her experience, Anjulika ingeniously adapted the software code to accommodate these extra parts, effectively resolving the problem without the need for remanufacturing these expensive instruments. This instance showcases her ability to apply creative and practical solutions through technology to address complex challenges.
Tackling Challenges and Transforming the Landscape
Anjulika takes pride in her comprehensive work at Malvern Panalytical, encompassing various technologies. Her particular source of pride lies in the ability to seamlessly navigate and deliver results across multiple technologies within tight timelines. As an applied mathematician, Anjulika is drawn to challenges and complex problems that evolve rapidly. Recognizing the significant impact of financial technology on the general populace, she was inspired to enter the dynamic and rapidly evolving sector of fintech. This decision reflects her enthusiasm for tackling dynamic challenges and contributing to the transformative landscape of financial technology.
Drive for Innovation in Technology
Anjulika observes that the rapidly evolving technology landscape, driven by demands from the financial sector, encompasses the need for intelligent automation and heightened security. Within System Holding (SH), strides are being made in the realm of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and its applications. Anjulika highlights the implementation of intelligent automation in some of SH’s applications. Leveraging her background as a mathematician, she is motivated to contribute to the creation of new technologies. The goal is not only to benefit existing clients but also to explore new business opportunities both in the UK and on the international stage. This drive reflects a commitment to innovation and the strategic positioning of SH in the evolving technological landscape.
Honors in Mathematics
According to Anjulika, being a Fellow of the Institute of Mathematics and its Applications and a Chartered Mathematician is a tremendous honor. It serves as not only a seal of approval, signifying that she works at the highest standard, but also a recognition that has facilitated collaboration with some of the greatest mathematicians in the world. The privilege of working alongside such brilliant minds has proven advantageous in ensuring that Anjulika selects the right techniques and makes informed decisions when deploying mathematical tools or algorithms. This recognition reflects a commitment to excellence and a valuable network of expertise within the field of mathematics.
Maintaining Work-Life Balance in Fintech
Anjulika acknowledges that maintaining a healthy work-life balance, especially in a demanding field like fintech, can be challenging for any business person. However, she shares that she has achieved this balance by implementing a strict routine and prioritizing tasks and duties. This approach allows her to effectively manage her professional responsibilities while ensuring time for personal well-being and a fulfilling personal life. Anjulika’s commitment to maintaining balance reflects her strategic approach to managing the demands of her role in the dynamic fintech sector.
Democratizing Technology for All
Anjulika expresses the significance of winning the English Woman’s award twice, acknowledging the responsibility it carries. She is highly conscious that the products and services delivered to clients under her leadership must add substantial value to their businesses and lives. Anjulika’s leadership philosophy centers around democratizing technology, making it accessible to businesses of all sizes at an affordable price without compromising quality.
System Holdings, under her guidance, aspires to be at the forefront of technology, delivering software and services to businesses of various scales. The goal is to continually expand offerings and ensure sustained growth for the business. Anjulika’s commitment to providing accessible and high-quality technology solutions underscores her leadership approach and vision for System Holdings.