What time do you usually wake up on weekdays?  

6 am – Burning the Midnight Oil  

How do you spend the first hour of your day?  

Coffee, Emails, WhatsApp  

What sparked your interest in finance?  

Fascination with numbers and financial markets. – Book Intelligent Investor 

It was also fuelled by Henico Schalekamp as a Partner at PKF where I got my first formal finance job.  

Can you share some career highlights and defining moments?  

Some key moments: 
– Being part of the Audit Team of a JSE Listed Company 
– Being part of the Audit Team of a State Owned Company 
– Handling my First Tax Case 
– Working in Corporate Finance -> A very different perspective than Audit or Accounting 
– ACCA PER Discharge (Articles Completed) 
– Joining Professional Bodies 
– Being lead representation on high-profile tax cases 
– Starting Marais Mutasa  

How do you handle professional challenges?  

One of the most effective strategies I have discovered for overcoming professional challenges is to actively seek input from colleagues or other trusted professionals for a second opinion before acting. This practice has proven invaluable as it enables me to approach complex problems with more than just my personal viewpoint. 

Engaging others introduces diverse perspectives and helps me to avoid the pitfalls of a biased mindset, ultimately leading to more comprehensive and effective solutions.  

What future goals are you excited about?  

Yes, currently I have some exiting projects: 
– Marais Mutasa 
– Expansion into the USA and UK 
– Many high profiles Tax Cases 
– Establishment of Corporate Finance Division 
– Working on collaborations with other firms 
– I have also been appointed as International Relations Director at JCI Sandton 
– Planning further expansion globally 

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

The main issue was working with different work ethics. Some countries have a unique high-pressure work ethic but take time-off seriously, whereas others have less high-pressure work ethics but expect teams to be semi-available during off time.  

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

Business and Management skills. These skills are taught during Accounting Courses, however I believe it is still insufficient for Directorship, unless the accountant completes his CGMA Qualification. 

How do you balance your personal and professional life?  

Maintaining clear boundaries and strategic planning are essential to my approach. I make it a priority to plan the majority of my month in advance, which enables me to balance my professional and personal commitments effectively. 

While some weeks may require a greater focus on professional responsibilities, I strive to compensate by dedicating more time to personal pursuits in subsequent weeks.  

What are your interests outside of work?  

– Chess 
– Charity 
– Economic Research 
– Politics 
– Reading  

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

At this stage my contribution is limited, I do however act as Training Officer for our Trainee Accountants completing Articles  

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

At this stage, I am in Public Practice. However, from my observation it is to take the CGMA Course. 

What’s your favorite quote or mantra?

‘Someone is sitting in the shade today because someone planted a tree a long time ago.’ – Warren Buffett 

Most Fathers/Mothers want their children to have life easier than they did 

Share your favorite leadership lesson.  

Leading by Example. 

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

I enjoy video games, Star Wars, and Sci-fi movies.  

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

Fallout Shelter – Game  

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

The ability to get hold of SARS  

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

Focus periods with short 5 min breaks 

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

Meeting my first High-Profile client as Engagement Partner.