Harsh Girish Patel, often known as Harsh Patel, is an Indian entrepreneur, lawyer, and chartered accountant. He is the founder and CEO of Water & Shark, a global firm offering accounting, legal, and consulting services. Based in Dubai, Patel has gained recognition for his work in international taxation and corporate advisory, particularly for startups and high-profile clients.
Early life and education.
Harsh Girish Patel was born in Mumbai, India, to Girish Chandulal Patel and Hemlata Girish Patel, a homemaker. He showed an early interest in finance and entrepreneurship, starting his first accountancy venture at age 19, which later evolved into Water & Shark. Patel holds a Bachelor of Commerce from Narsee Monjee College of Commerce and Economics and a Bachelor of Laws (LL.B.) from Gopaldas Jhamatmal Advani Law College, both in Mumbai. He is a Chartered Accountant certified by The Institute of Chartered Accountants of India and earned a Master of Laws (LL.M.) from the University of Cumbria. He is also a Fellow Member of CPA Australia and the Institute of Chartered Accountants of India.
Career.
Water & Shark.
In 2012, Harsh Girish Patel founded Water & Shark, a firm specializing in international taxation, corporate law, and consulting services. The company operates in multiple countries, including India, the United Arab Emirates, and the United Kingdom, serving clients in sectors like technology, real estate, and finance. Water & Shark has been recognized for its work in cross-border transactions and startup advisory.
Key Engagements.
Patel has advised technology startups such as Zepto and other emerging businesses, focusing on financial structuring and tax advisory. He spoke at the European Parliament during the EU-India Leaders Conference in Brussels in 2024, discussing opportunities for European companies in the Indian market. Additionally, Patel has shared insights on entrepreneurship and leadership at events like the TEDx LLIMS conference.
Awards and recognitions.
Patel has received several accolades for his contributions to finance and law, including:
Philanthropy.
Patel supports education initiatives and mentors aspiring Chartered Accountants and lawyers, guiding them in their professional journeys.
Personal life.
Harsh Girish Patel is married to Karina Patel, a Russian national with a master's degree in history of arts and economics. They reside in Dubai.