Who We Are : Our Journey

Dr. CA Harsh Patel is the Founding Member and CEO of Water and Shark. He has maneuvered the company across different countries since 2012 and has paved the way for its establishment in India, USA, UK, Singapore, Canada and the UAE. A look at his profile will give you a purview of the many talents he possesses, as an individual and a businessman. Proficient in Tax, Auditing, Corporate Compliance, Real Estate Transaction Advisory, Start-Up Venturing and Strategic Advisory, he has created the ideal platform via the company for several CAs, CPAs and professional firms to meet at one place and expand on a global level.

Having travelled across several countries, Harsh has realized the disparity between India and the foreign lands and how they lacked an Indian CA firm for auditing, taxing and strategic solutions. In order to pass on his knowledge and expand the business to help other professionals, Harsh has brought Water and Shark to fame and has also been bestowed upon with several accolades throughout his journey. He was honored with the “Dr. BabasahebAmbedkar Nobel Award (BANA) 2018” by the International Human Rights Council (IHRC) and the Pride of Maharashtra Award 2018 in the Category of “Exemplary Leader (Corporate Excellence)”. With the help of a core member team spread across the world, he has also paved the way for the firm to be awarded as the “Best Tax & Accountancy Firm rising globally 2018” by ABP News. Water and Shark was also mentioned in “The 10 Rising Consultants Start-ups to Watch In 2018” by the renowned business magazine ‘Insight Success’.

Harsh wants to help other CA professionals like him in incorporating their businesses abroad without any hassles. Through his expertise, he wishes to bring like-minded professionals and businessmen on the same platform to help them represent themselves on a global level. A new destination takes patience and efforts to become a home, and Harsh makes it simpler through his incorporation strategies and dedicated team who can get the job done efficiently. Harsh likes to portray Water and Shark’s vision by keeping it straightforward - “Providing solutions, Unlocking opportunities” - which reflects his personality as a go-getter and the company’s motto to develop convenient propositions to aid clients worldwide.

Doli Patel holds the position of The Director of Tax & Regulatory Services and chairs the Women Committee at Water and Shark. She has been instrumental in helping a number of firms set up their businesses across the world. Her core competence & experience lies in Indian Tax systems and their regulatory compliances. She has been a reliable team member who can effectively help firms with their tax & regulatory hassles. She takes her achievements to newer heights by being an Associate Member of IPA (Australia) and the Institute of Financial Accountants, UK.

Her experience and expertise in the industry add further character and mettle to her position within the firm. She is a known name within the industry who guides firms across niches with advisory services such as GST, Income Tax compliances, and more to entities like SMEs, Startups, Corporates. She adds experience, vigor, and integrity to her role within W&S.

Amar is a Chartered Accountant from Institute of Chartered Accountants of India (ICAI) and its fellow Member. He is a bachelor in commerce from renowned R.D. National College, Mumbai, India. Amar has over a decade of experience in conducting Audits of SMEs & other firms. He is proficient in rendering Financial Services, Fund Raising Advisory, Corporate Financial Planning, Advising on Short Term/Long Term Borrowing, Cost Advisory & Due Diligence.

Akash Prajapati is a Practicing Chartered Accountant with over a decade of experience in Taxation and Audit. He possesses in-depth knowledge of complex tax laws and regulations, providing valuable guidance to clients. His expertise in tax planning helps businesses optimize their structures and minimize liabilities. He conducts thorough audits, identifying areas of improvement and ensuring compliance.

Akash is known for his exceptional client service and strong communication skills. He establishes lasting relationships, understanding clients' unique needs. He stays updated with industry trends and maintains the highest ethical standards. With his professionalism and expertise, he delivers outstanding results. Akash is a trusted and reliable financial advisor at our organization.

Urvi Mehta is CPA, OH with 10 years of Diverse Experience ininternal audit, risk management, governance, business process improvement, technical accounting and financial reporting services for clients across a wide range of sectors and geographies.

She worked with Parms & Co where she was involved Performed Auditing Engagements of local governments, Not-for-profit organizations, 401(k) and Employee benefits plan Audits and tax preparation & planning for small businesses. She also worked with PwC Mumbai.

Urvi has completed her Bachelors in Accountancy from Mumbai University and is a Chartered Accountant from India. She has extensive knowledge in US GAAP and Indian GAAP

Jibran is a Chartered Accountant - Singapore, ACCA – UK, Bachelor in Applied Accounting and has a Diploma in ERP implementations. He has over 12 years of experience in multinational corporate environment.

He has been engaged in planning, executing, supervising and finalization of statutory audit assignments of multinational clients in various industries.

Jibran has performed periodic financial reporting activities along with financial analysis, to assist BOD in critical corporate decisions makings.

He has coordinated significant ad-hoc assignments at regional level, including international arbitrations, group ISO certifications, Joint Venture Audits, Government audits.

Jibran has also assisted MIS department during migration to a new ERP system in reconciling the customer financial data.

Jay is a Chartered Accountant and is registered as a member with The Institute of Chartered Accountants of India. He is a bachelor in commerce from S M Patel Institute of Commerce, Ahmedabad, India. In the past Jay has worked with a renowned UK Accountancy Firm providing accounting and taxation service to various UK based clients. He has over 6 years of experience in UK accounting and taxation (VAT, Payroll and Corporation tax return), which has proven extremely resourceful and pivotal in expanding Water and Shark's practice in the UK region. Along with actively providing his services in the UK market, Jay holds experience in providing accounting services for US, Canada and Australian based client.

Jay strives for providing quality work and his excellent communication skills ensure overall efficiency in work and high rated customer satisfaction. He believes in overall growth of the industry for which he works with the utmost sincerity and integrity creating an uplifting environment for everyone.

Ms. KrutiBhavsar started her law studies in 2012 at the esteemed Government Law College, Mumbai. After completing B.L.S. LL.B., she enrolled herself with the Bar Council of Maharashtra & Goa in the year 2017 and soon thereafter started practicing at the Supreme Court of India, Bombay High Court, Civil and Criminal Courts and Tribunals such as NCLT, DRT etc. Within a short tenure of practice, Ms. Kruti has established an excellent reputation for her integrity and value-based proactive, pragmatic and innovative legal advice and her ability to help clients effectively traverse the complicated legal and regulatory regime in India.

Ms. KrutiBhavsar, co-founder and managing partner of Water and Shark Legal, joined hands with Water and Shark to expand and channelize her legal expertise to a global level. Ms. Kruti believes in establishing strong and enduring relationships with her clients. It is always her endeavor to understand the client’s goals. With the intention of delivering quality legal services across industries and service lines, she endeavors to be proactive with a focus to offer simple, practical, innovative and uncompromising advice tailored for the evolving and unique requirements of each client.

Ms. Kruti is committed to social responsibility. She serves the community by rendering probono legal services and supporting various social responsibility initiatives.

Shehbaaz is the newest associate-partner in the Water and Shark - Legal family whose three years of myriad experience have been spent working with various multinationals resolving their corporate and legal issues. Shehbaaz is a corporate lawyer and a qualified All India Ranker company secretary. He served as an in-house legal counsel for Firmenich India managing and advising the company on all legal and compliance issues. He was also previously the senior associate at India’s renowned law firm handling their bouquet of global clients.

Over the years, his work in compliance, corporate restructuring and foreign investments has metamorphosed him, from a budding legal worker to an asset with a steep corporate bent.

He believes that law is not just a profession but also a business. Which is why he loves corporate law and is assiduously working at bringing excellence to every client that comes his way. And he’s now part of a team that complements and nurtures this grit.

He is a CA and a Company Secretary with over 12 years of experience in providing accounting, auditing, risk assessment, and tax consultancy services. His impressive work record boasts of several big names in the consultancy industry in India and the UAE.

Outside of the consultancy industry, he has also acquired in depth-experience in the Middle East and INDIA in various verticals, such as Mobility Distribution, Internal Audit, Retail, Service Center, 3PL Logistics, to name a few.

His latest stint before joining W&S included handling the financial and operational audits in the Healthcare sector for the Middle East and ASIA regions.

He sports a rich portfolio of business and consulting services, such as accounting, auditing, trading, shipping, contracting and manufacturing. He is also experienced in implementing Computerized Accounting Systems in the large organizations and providing guidance for VAT, ESR and AML Compliances.

As a Senior Associate - Global Advisory for Water and Shark, he has gained a wealth of experience in helping clients incorporate their businesses and navigate the process of setting up operations in various countries including Singapore, the United States, the United Arab Emirates, Hong Kong, and Canada. Abdul Rahim has a strong understanding of compliance matters and is able to advise clients on the legal requirements and regulations they need to be aware of in order to operate smoothly and successfully in these markets.

In addition to his expertise in company incorporation and business setup, he also has a background in business development. With a keen eye for identifying opportunities for growth. He has a strong track record of helping clients grow their businesses and succeed in the global market.

Abdul Rahim is committed to helping clients navigate the complex process of establishing and growing their businesses in the international market and is always looking for ways to expand his knowledge and expertise in order to better serve the clients.

Nikita Mulay is a skilled Senior Legal Associate with a strong focus on corporate law. She holds a BBA LLB (Hons.) degree from the University of Mumbai, where she graduated at the top of her class. She has gained experience in structuring advisory, cross border transactions, and exchange control regulations.

She has assisted clients from across the globe, including the United States (US), Singapore, United Kingdom, United Arab Emirates and India. She is currently pursuing a Diploma in US Corporate law and paralegal studies which further enhance her profile and will equip her to specialize in niche of corporate law practices in the US.

With her diverse background and wide range of experience, she is well-equipped to handle complex legal issues and provide valuable assistance to the clients.

Adnan Khan assumed the role of Manager at Water and Shark's Tax and Regulatory Services practice in the United Arab Emirates (UAE), an appointment he took up in July 2022. Prior to this role, he worked as a Senior Associate in Water and Shark’s Indian leg of operations. Over the course of his 5 years with Water and Shark, Adnan has been involved in several on-shore and off-shore Business setup advisory and Banking solutions, Global Corporate Restructuring, International Transfer Pricing advisory, Real Estate Regulatory compliance assistance, Cross-border Direct & Indirect tax consultancy and various multinational Audits and Assurance functions. Adnan has worked with a range of clients including Public & Private limited entities, institutions of Higher Educations, Real Estate conglomerates, Foundations and other organisations with Local, National and Multinational operations. He is highly knowledgeable in the tax laws and regulations of India, UAE & Singapore, and is able to offer expert advice to clients doing business in these countries

Across various roles, Adnan has developed the ability to foster a strong team dynamic, collaborate efficiently, and effectively understand and meet the needs of clients and colleagues. He works in partnership with clients to comprehend their specific requirements and objectives and delivers tailored solutions to assist them in adding values to their ventures. He is recognized for his ability to explain complicated tax and regulatory matters in a straightforward and clear manner, making it easier for clients to understand and act on his advice.

Adnan holds a degree in Finance from the University of Mumbai, and is currently pursuing both Chartered Accountancy with The Institute of Chartered Accountants in India (ICAI), as well as a bachelor’s degree in Corporate Law. Outside of work, he is an avid Outdoorsman and enjoys hiking, camping, travelling and visiting new locations.

Pooja Shah is a highly qualified Chartered Accountant with expertise in both Domestic and International Taxation. Her extensive experience includes handling compliance and advisory matters, structuring and restructuring for individuals and corporations, Transfer Pricing, FEMA, Auditing, and Accounting. She has previously worked in a Chartered Accountancy firm and a multinational company, which has given her a broad understanding of the industry.

To further expand her knowledge of global international laws, Pooja is currently pursuing her US CPA to enhance her expertise. Taxation is her core interest as she believes it is crucial in all business structuring models.

Pooja is committed to delivering high-quality services and effectively catering to Water and Shark’s clients' needs. Her focus on meeting clients' requirements has enabled her to build long-term relationships with them.

Dr. Alaa El Essawy is a highly accomplished chartered accountant from Egypt, with over 30 years of experience in accounting, taxation, and audit. He is currently the Chairman and Director of Professional Experiences Group (PEG) Egypt, where he provides expert guidance to clients in various industries.

In addition to his chartered accountant designation, Dr. Essawy holds a PhD in Business Administration from the United States, as well as a master’s degree in Intellectual Property and Innovation Management. This combination of expertise has made him a highly sought-after advisor for businesses looking to navigate the complexities of intellectual property and innovation management in today's global economy.

Dr. Essawy is also a respected leader in the business community, serving as the Executive Director of the International Federation of Arab Businessmen and Investors Abroad. He is also the Chairman of the Board of Directors of Seeds of Mercy, a non-profit organization that provides humanitarian aid to those in need.

With his extensive experience, impressive credentials, and commitment to serving others, Dr. Alaa El Essawy is a highly respected figure in the accounting and business communities in Egypt and beyond.

Aya holds a Diploma in International Commerce as well as an LL. M. in International Commercial Law from Indiana University School of Law, Indianapolis,

With her years of experience working at law firms and multinational corporations made her an expert in drafting and reviewing all types of contracts, in addition to managing local and cross border business set up.

Drashti Prajapati is a highly qualified Chartered Accountant based in India and possesses extensive expertise in the field of taxation. Her proficiency spans tax planning and advisory, Tax Audit, compliance and litigation across clients from varied industries including Manufacturing, Information Technology, Service, Retail, Construction and Pharmaceutics. Here at Water and Shark, Drashti leverages her comprehensive knowledge to assist clients in Singapore, the USA, Canada and India. She provides valuable guidance on tax policy and complex tax issues, tax governance, tax technology processes, reporting changes, and transfer pricing. Known for her collaborative approach, Drashti is a dedicated team player committed to staying abreast of the latest developments in tax laws, rules, and regulations.

Bhavesh Jogani is a Bachelor of Commerce from Mumbai University and a Seasoned Chartered Accountant with more than 8 years of extensive experience in the field of Auditing, Taxation as well as proficiency in International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS) and Indian Accounting Standards (Ind AS). With a diverse portfolio, he has handled Statutory Audits, Internal Audits, Tax Audits, Concurrent Audits, Treasury Audits, Stock Exchange Audit and Ind AS implementation assignments for the firm. His expertise lies in delivering meticulous audit services and providing strategic advice to clients on implementation of IFRS and IND AS. He has been the team leader of Concurrent and Treasury audit teams of a large private sector bank, Internal Audit Team of Non-Banking Financial Companies (NBFC) and Stock Brokers. His in-depth knowledge and proficiency makes him a trusted advisor for navigating complex financial landscapes and ensuring compliance with regulatory requirements. . His vision encompasses continuous learning, staying updated with evolving regulatory frameworks, and delivering exceptional value to clients. He is committed to fostering growth opportunities, enhancing service offerings, and building enduring relationships with clients and stakeholders. With a forward-thinking approach and a dedication to excellence, he aims to remain at the forefront of the auditing profession and contribute meaningfully to the success of his clients and the broader professional community.

Pavan Agrawal is a Chartered Accountant and has a post qualification diploma in Forensic Audit & GST. He has almost a decade of experience in the area of Debt Syndication, Debt Restructuring & Business Acquisition. He is also an expert in handling matters related to Insolvency & Bankruptcy

Pavan is a young talented professional enhancing the quality of services we render and is been continuously upgrading and improving his expertise to provide better services to our clients

Ravi Mehta is a Chartered Accountant, Company Secretary and Certified Public Accountant (USA) by qualification having more than 8 years of diverse financial services experience in the field of Investment Banking, Project Finance, Strategic Corporate Advisory, Data Analytics, Audit & Taxation, Financial Planning & Analysis & M&A Advisory. He has proven his ability to improve operations and impacted business through improved financial management, cost reductions &enhanced internal controls.

He worked with Ernst & Young for few years where he was involved in providing assurance and advisory services to clients reporting under Indian GAAP and International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS).

He has also worked with Piramal Capital & Housing Finance where he was involved in projectfinance, fund raising for clients, due diligence, debt restructuring and client acquisition. He has advised companies operating in the Real Estate, Infrastructure (Road, Power, and Renewable energy), Manufacturing, Pharma, Banking & Finance, Textile sector across India.

CA JigarZatakia has over 7 years of experience in handling matters related to Direct & Indirect Taxes and Accounting & Finance related functions. Mr. Zatakia has strong analytical abilities and core knowledge on financial concepts that helps the clients in arriving at cost beneficial decisions during rough market trends. Further he assists in building up portfolios, making growth and expansion programmes which helps in long term growth and survival of an individual as well as organizations.

Vishal Jain is a Chartered Accountant practicing in the area of Audit and Direct & Indirect Taxation & since 2015. He is an A.C.A & B.Com (Hons) graduate from Delhi University. He has a wide Industry exposure and has worked with large organizations including MNCs & Real Estate Companies.

With an Innovative mindset and diversified industry exposure he continuously adds great value to the organization

Siddhant Shah is the Managing Partner Audit and Assurance, India. He has over decade of experience in Accounting Advisory, Audit and Tax advisory. Through Internal Audits and Internal Control Reviews, he has helped a large number of Corporate, SMEs and various other institutions

Siddhant is a qualifed Chartered Account and Fellow Member of Institute of Chartered Accountants of India as well as Institute of Public Accountants of Australia. He is also an integral part of Water and Shark Global Various steering committees. Although he has worked with various corporates across different industries, he has proclivity for Real Estate.