The Phoenix Effect
How uncertainty turns into real power
Natia Skhvitaridze founded her own finance company during the pandemic – and now she's taking a bold step and planning to expand to the United States.
A conversation about courage, culture, and inner strength, and the combination needed for sustainable success.
Interviewer – Claudia Gabler
Ladies Drive: Natia, would you call yourself a “numbers person”?
Natia Skhvitaridze: Absolutely! Accuracy, structure, and clarity have fascinated me since an early age. Numbers don't lie – they provide a reliable basis for clear planning and reasoned decisions.
Ladies Drive: Did you have to show flexibility from an early age?
Of course, yes! The world of finance and accounting – both in Georgia and internationally – presents many challenges, especially for women. Although the majority of accountants in Georgia are women, strategic or leading roles in the financial sector are still often held by men. I have worked hard to break these outdated stereotypes. Combining a demanding profession with family life also required a lot of flexibility. However, every obstacle has made me more resilient, strengthened my ability to adapt, and ultimately helped me to reveal my leadership qualities.
Ladies Drive: What does flexibility and security mean in the Georgian context? Are there cultural differences here?
In Georgia, flexibility often means dealing with uncertainty – whether it’s political or economic instability – while maintaining focus and resilience. Security is harder to achieve, especially in the workplace. In the UK, where I studied and worked, labor rights and personal freedoms are institutionally better protected. In Georgia, it takes much more effort and perseverance to create a healthy corporate culture. I am proud that at FAS Group we have been able to create a work environment that meets European and American standards.
Ladies Drive: What can both cultures learn from each other?
Georgia lives with heart, warmth, hospitality and human closeness, which greatly influences both personal and professional relationships. From Europe, we can learn structure, reliability and long-term strategic planning. I believe that the combination of emotional intelligence and operational discipline is the key to sustainable success.
Ladies Drive: You founded a company during a pandemic and gave up a secure, high-paying job to do it. Where did you find the courage?
Looking back, it was a bold move, but one that felt right. I had wanted to do my own thing for a long time, but the right moment had never come. When the pandemic shook the world, it became, paradoxically, my driving force: I asked myself: “If not now, then when?” It was a leap into the unknown, based on a long-held dream and the belief that challenges often hide the greatest opportunities.
Ladies Drive: What has been your most meaningful experience to date?
The most valuable lesson was: Believe in yourself – especially when others don’t believe in you. Dreams often seem unrealistic until they become reality. Also: You can’t achieve anything alone. Success is a team sport. Having the right people by your side is just as important as your own ambition.
Ladies Drive: Where do you want your company to be in ten years?
By the end of 2025, I would like to open a US branch of FAS Group. We are already actively working on this. In the long term, I see my company as a recognized provider of high-quality financial services and innovative digital solutions – both in Europe and the US.
Ladies Drive: What role does the Swiss foundation BPN Georgia play for you?
BPN Georgia has been a great partner – especially in the early stages. For small businesses, it is incredibly valuable to have a trusted organization by your side that offers mentorship, advice, and encouragement. This support has played a crucial role in our development.
Ladies Drive: What are your three tips for finding stability through flexibility in times of uncertainty?
1. Be a professional in your field – know your field thoroughly
2. Build a strong team – gather people you trust and who believe in your vision.
3. Believe in yourself – even when times get tough. Unwavering confidence turns ambition into reality.
