Behind every client relationship, piece of advice, and business success story is a team of talented people who make PKF Withers Tsang what it is.
In our People of PKF Withers Tsang series, we’re shining a spotlight on the individuals who bring their expertise, personality, and passion to our firm every day. From accountants and business advisors to specialists and support teams, these profiles offer a glimpse into the people behind the profession.
Discover their career journeys, insights, interests, and the experiences that have shaped who they are both inside and outside the office.
This time, we’re getting to know Christine Cacdac, People & Culture Lead at PKF Withers Tsang.
What’s the biggest misconception people have about “People & Culture” roles?
That it’s simply HR with a rebrand.
Many people assume People & Culture is mostly about policies and paperwork, but that’s only a small part of the role. The bigger focus is helping people do their best work by supporting leaders, removing obstacles, and creating an environment where individuals and teams can succeed. It’s a much more human-centred profession than many people realise.
What’s one thing you think great workplaces get wrong all the time?
Believing engagement comes from perks.
Many organisations chase high engagement scores or roll out the next big initiative and mistake that for success. In my experience, people stay because they feel valued, trusted, and supported.
Engagement without psychological safety, growth, or purpose is simply people being busy and reasonably content — and content is not the same as thriving. The best workplaces are willing to have honest, and sometimes uncomfortable, conversations.
You spend your days thinking about people. What’s something you’ve learnt about human behaviour that surprised you?
That most people genuinely want to do a good job.
It sounds simple, but that realisation changed how I approach almost everything. When someone’s performance drops, there is usually a reason worth understanding before jumping to conclusions.
What type of person thrives at PKF Withers Tsang — and who probably wouldn’t?
The people who thrive here are curious, willing to learn, and genuinely invested in the people around them, not just their own output. They don’t need to be the loudest voice in the room; they simply need to care.
People tend to struggle when they prefer to work in isolation, don’t enjoy being challenged, or expect hierarchy to do the work that relationships should.
What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received? And did you actually take it?
“Don’t wait until you feel ready.”
Did I take it? Mostly.
I still experience moments of doubt before taking on something significant, but I’ve learnt to act anyway. Readiness comes through doing, not through waiting. It’s advice I continue to come back to and occasionally still need to remind myself of.
Tell us about a moment in your career when you thought, “Okay… I’ve got this now.”
Honestly, there hasn’t been one defining moment.
Instead, it’s been a series of smaller moments — situations that would have felt completely overwhelming a few years earlier, but one day simply didn’t. I think that’s how confidence is built. Not all at once, but gradually over time.
Outside of work, what’s something you’re completely obsessed with at the moment?
Definitely Muay Thai.
I train alongside my teenage son, which makes it even more rewarding. There’s something about showing up, being fully present, and pushing through a physical challenge that clears my head like nothing else.
The fact that it’s also quality time with my son is something I never take for granted. It keeps me healthy, grounded, and far better equipped to handle challenging days at work.
What’s your most controversial workplace opinion?
Culture isn’t built through events and activities.
It’s built through everyday behaviours — how people speak to one another, whether leaders follow through on commitments, and how conflict is handled. Those moments shape culture far more than any event ever could.
If your friends described you in three words, what would they say?
Caring, reliable, and loyal.
I think that’s a fair reflection of who I am.
What’s one thing you hope people feel after interacting with you at work?
Heard.
Whether it’s a quick conversation or working through something difficult, I want people to walk away knowing they were genuinely listened to and that someone is in their corner.
Christine’s story is a reminder that great workplaces are built by great people. Through her leadership, empathy, and commitment to helping others succeed, she plays an important role in shaping the culture of PKF Withers Tsang.
Want to learn more about life at PKF Withers Tsang? Explore our latest team stories, insights, and career opportunities to see what makes our firm a place where people can grow, thrive, and build meaningful careers.