What time do you usually wake up on weekdays? 
 

I much prefer the quiet of night—it gives me the time and space to think, execute, and prepare for the next day. This quiet time allows me to set up a focused tomorrow, ensuring I start each day with clear priorities and a steady mindset. 

How do you spend the first hour of your day? 
 

There’s nothing like starting the day with a great Nespresso! I glance over my diary to ensure I’m prepped for the day ahead, followed by a quick boxing workout, a protein smoothie, and a cold shower. This routine leaves me energized and ready to tackle any challenge that comes my way. 

What sparked your interest in finance? 
 

I was one of those unusual people who, at 13 years old, knew what I wanted to do with my life—or at least I thought I did! I’ve always had a natural inclination toward numbers; they just made sense to me in a way that’s hard to explain. I’m sure most people feel a similar connection with their chosen fields. Fortunately, I had fantastic support from family and friends, many of whom were also fascinated by numbers.
Finance intrigued me because of its balance of strategy, analysis, and real-world impact. As I transitioned into the corporate world, my interest solidified when I saw how financial insights could transform business direction and efficiency. However, I encountered a frustrating reality: Financial Managers are often well aware of the issues but lack the authority to act on their insights. This led me to specialize in leveraging Lean principles and technology to optimize performance, with finance as the backbone that tells the real story—it just depends on who the narrator is!
 

Can you share some career highlights and defining moments? 
 

I began my career at KPMG and became a Chartered Accountant, then moved on to Kingsley Heath, where the COO said to me, “Come work for me, and I’ll teach you how to run a business.” He was not disappointed! Although hired as a Financial Manager, I found myself knee-deep in operations, problem-solving, and finding better ways to work. That’s when I discovered Lean principles, and the ideology of continuous improvement lit a fire in me. This experience was transformative, shaping my understanding of business from a holistic perspective.
Later, I joined Transcend as Chief of Staff, and within 18 months, I became the Group Finance & Operations Director. Alongside the leadership team, we successfully rolled out Lean methodologies throughout the business, driving efficiency and creating a culture of improvement. This journey eventually led me to co-found LeanTechnovations, where I could fully integrate Lean and technology to help other companies achieve similar transformation. Securing our first major client was a particularly defining moment—it validated our model and set the foundation for long term sustainable growth.
 

How do you handle professional challenges? 
 

My approach to handling professional challenges is rooted in a Lean mindset—viewing obstacles as opportunities for growth, improvement, and innovation. I believe that each challenge has something to teach, so my first step is to break down the issue, identify the root causes, and analyse the situation from a data-driven perspective. Lean methodologies have taught me that by approaching challenges systematically, it’s possible to transform roadblocks into steppingstones for continuous improvement.
Collaboration and open communication are also central to how I tackle difficulties. I rely on my team’s diverse perspectives, encouraging brainstorming sessions where we can think freely and explore different solutions. By creating a culture of transparency and trust, we can address challenges more effectively, leveraging our collective strengths to identify practical, sustainable solutions.
Lastly, resilience and adaptability are critical. In my career, I’ve faced situations where initial plans failed, markets shifted unexpectedly, or projects didn’t go as anticipated. In these moments, I remind myself that setbacks are a part of the journey. I focus on learning from each experience, recalibrating quickly, and staying aligned with the broader vision. This approach has not only helped me overcome individual challenges but has also fostered a sense of agility and continuous improvement that I strive to instill across the teams and organizations I lead.
 

What future goals are you excited about? 
 

There are 3 potentially huge projects for the next 6 – 18 months, just waiting for the client signature on the dotted line . . .
But looking ahead, I’m particularly excited about expanding LeanTechnovations’ impact, especially through our Lean Accounting and Lean Governance initiatives. As businesses increasingly seek out more sustainable, efficiency-driven solutions, I see a significant opportunity to shape how Lean principles are applied beyond traditional operations, integrating them into financial and governance processes. It’s rewarding to envision a future where these approaches redefine how companies view efficiency, decision-making, and resource management.
 

Have you had any international or different cultural experiences in your career?  

My career has provided opportunities to work with diverse teams and clients across different cultural contexts, which has been both transformative and enlightening. Working across borders requires not only expertise in financial and operational strategies but also the ability to navigate cultural nuances, communication styles, and varied business practices. These experiences have taught me the importance of adaptability and respect for different perspectives in decision-making and problem-solving.
One defining experience was my secondment at KPMG UK, where I worked for three months, gaining firsthand insights into the UK market’s unique business practices and regulatory expectations. This experience deepened my ability to adapt financial strategies for distinct environments and reinforced the importance of cross-border communication.
Another memorable experience was working with KPMG’s internal audit team in Zimbabwe for three weeks. Immersing myself in a new economic landscape required flexibility and an open mind, especially in understanding local challenges and collaborating effectively.
These international assignments taught me that collaboration across cultures often involves balancing different viewpoints, listening carefully, and fostering an inclusive environment where all inputs are valued. These experiences have significantly shaped my leadership style, instilling a strong sense of empathy, patience, and a commitment to continuous learning.
 

What key skills should a newly qualified accountant develop on their path to becoming a CFO? 
 

Aspiring CFOs need to build technical expertise alongside strong soft skills like people management, emotional intelligence, and communication. These soft skills often distinguish effective finance leaders, enabling them to connect with and motivate their teams while driving organizational goals.
People management is essential for building a cohesive and collaborative team environment. A successful CFO doesn’t just oversee finances but also nurtures talent, empowering team members to develop their strengths and fostering a culture of accountability and growth. This skill is vital for retaining top talent and ensuring the finance function operates seamlessly.
Emotional intelligence is another crucial asset, particularly in leadership. A CFO with high emotional intelligence can better understand and respond to the needs of their team, creating a work environment that values empathy, resilience, and open communication. This skill helps in managing stress, resolving conflicts, and navigating the complexities of organizational change with a balanced approach.
Finally, strong communication skills are indispensable. CFOs translate complex financial information into clear, actionable insights, making it accessible for non-finance colleagues and senior leaders alike. This clarity builds trust, fosters strategic decisions across departments, and helps align teams with the company’s vision.
In today’s business landscape, these soft skills empower CFOs to lead with empathy, agility, and insight, establishing their role as strategic partners within the organization.
 

How do you balance your personal and professional life? 
 

Balance, for me, starts with prioritizing tasks, leveraging time management tools, and setting clear boundaries. I’m highly organized—some might say OCD-level organized—and invest significant time in planning, preparing, and prioritizing. I rely on tools like ClickUp and my calendar to structure my days effectively; without a conscious decision to make time for something, you’ll find that time simply slips away. Quality time with family and friends is essential to a happy, fulfilling life, so it’s a non-negotiable part of my schedule.
Achieving balance also requires a strong team at work who can support me when I am out of office or when personal responsibilities arise and having a partner at home who understands me —whether that’s staying in, ordering our favourite meal and enjoying a glass of wine at home, or going out to watch the latest movie. It’s these intentional choices and supportive relationships that make it all work.
 

What are your interests outside of work? 
 

One of my favourite ways to unwind is with a weekly braai with my wife and my Siberian Husky. It’s my secret weapon to unlock true downtime —there’s nothing quite like grilling a Wagyu steak and enjoying it straight off the braai (my Husky would certainly agree!).
I’m a huge sports fan as well, with soccer, MMA, and boxing at the top of my list. The strategy, discipline, and resilience in these sports resonate deeply with me. I am an avid reader, particularly drawn to business and psychology books—I’m fascinated by how the brain works and the science behind decision-making, as it ties closely to leadership and personal growth.
Ultimately, these interests and activities not only bring me joy but keep me grounded and energized, helping me bring my best self to both my professional and personal life.
 

How do you contribute to the development of others in your field? 
 

Mentorship is integral to my work, particularly in guiding professionals on Lean methodologies and fostering a culture of continuous improvement, growth, and learning. I’m also involved with organizations like the Inqolobane Investment Trust, where we actively support initiatives such as bursary sponsorships for students, community feeding schemes, and assistance for young entrepreneurs. This commitment to developing others is central to both my professional and personal values. 

What advice would you give to someone aspiring to be a CFO? 
 

From someone who became a CFO at about the age of 28, my number one piece of advice for aspiring CFOs is to develop both strategic and operational perspectives. As CFO, your role is not just about managing numbers but about steering the organization toward sustainable growth. Deepen your understanding of the business, beyond finance, so you can add value in areas like operations, technology, and strategic planning.
Another crucial aspect is building strong communication skills. A great CFO can translate complex financial insights into actionable advice for teams at all levels, enabling them to make informed decisions. Don’t hesitate to prioritize continuous learning, especially around new financial technologies and data analytics—these are transforming the role of finance leaders.
Finally, remember that leadership is about people. Invest time in mentoring and empowering your team, as their growth and alignment with the company’s goals will be instrumental to your success. Embrace a mindset of authenticity and transparency—these qualities foster trust and credibility, which are vital for effective leadership. Lead by example in terms of accountability, integrity, and strategic vision, and always uphold a culture of continuous improvement.
 

What’s your favorite quote or mantra? 
 

I would say there is 2 that I have on repeat in my mind:
For the tough days:

“I never lose. I either win or I learn.”

This mantra keeps me grounded, reminding me that every experience, whether a success or a setback, is an opportunity for growth and insight.
For the too many meetings in my diary days:

“Efficiency is doing things right; Effectiveness is doing the right things.”

This perspective keeps me aligned with impactful actions.
 

Share your favorite leadership lesson. 
 

One of the most powerful leadership lessons I’ve embraced is Verne Harnish’s insight that “a leader’s job is to help their people see and reach their potential.”

Empowering others leads to scalable success; trusting your team and nurturing their skills yields returns that go beyond individual performance. By investing in the growth of each person, leaders create a culture of continuous improvement and shared achievement, which ultimately drives sustainable success for the entire organization. 

What’s something surprising about you that isn’t in your business bio? 
 

I am a three-time varsity foosball champion! 

What’s your favorite non-business app on your phone? 
 

Manchester City App – How else do I watch my team win a 5th consecutive premier league?! 

If you could have any superpower to help you in your job, what would it be? 
 

The ability to interpret complex data for quick, actionable insights would streamline decision-making – Oh wait, I can do that already hehehe.
Time travel would be the ultimate superpower! Imagine being able to revisit key moments, learn from the past in real time, and bring those insights back to the present. It would be invaluable for making decisions based on real hindsight and foresight, all while getting an edge in predicting market shifts.
 

What’s your go-to strategy for staying productive during long workdays? 
 

Light meals, plenty of coffee, lots of water, and regular smoke breaks! The short pauses help me recalibrate and refocus, keeping my energy and concentration steady throughout the day. 

If you could relive one day from your professional career, which day would it be and why? 
 

The day LeanTechnovations secured its first major client is one I would relive without a doubt. That moment validated our model, affirming that a Lean-focused approach, when paired with technology, could deliver transformative results. It was a turning point that confirmed our ability to bring measurable value to our clients, beyond the theory and vision behind the business. The excitement in the team was palpable, and it underscored that our collective efforts and unique approach resonated with clients looking for sustainable, efficiency-driven solutions.
This experience fueled our confidence and set the stage for scaling our operations, knowing we had proven the potential impact we could achieve. Reliving that day would serve as a powerful reminder of how far we’ve come and the foundational values that have driven our growth since then.