Latest Articles

Basil Read CEO: company on track to achieve R160 million profit after tax

While it hasn't been the easiest year thus far for construction giant Basil Read, the remainder of 2015 looks good, says company CEO, Neville Nicolau.

Unpredictability, transparency, excellence: a chat with RAF CFO Yolande van Biljon

Yolande van Biljon learnt valuable lessons when the IT bubble burst around the turn of the century, grew into a finance leader at Denel and now has the unenviable task of sorting out the cash flow problems at the Road Accident Fund (RAF). Her recipe for success should work for any CFO: “What scares people is uncertainty. It is better to be open, even if you cannot tell people what they want to hear.”

10 steps to a successful exit strategy

Imperial Holdings seeks acquisitions to expand its African business

In a bid to counter slower growth in its home market, Imperial Holdings, which owns South Africa's largest network of car dealerships, is in search of new acquisitions that will allow it to expand its logistics business on the continent.

Black & Veatch CFO announces African expansion

Global engineering, procurement and construction leader Black & Veatch recently opened a South African subsidiary, Black & Veatch South Africa, a welcome extension of this 100-year-old company.

Isuzu Trucks: Getting the perfect Truck to market faster with the 4most Enterprise Manager (EMA) powered by SAP Business One

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ACSA CFO pleased with results, despite company's large debt

While there exist valid concerns about the company's current debt, Airports Company South Africa (ACSA) CFO Maureen Manyama is happy with the organisation's most recent results.

Newsletter: The real reason for the Randslide | Learning from Greg Davis CFO Africa Standard Bank | Plaudits for clean audit National Arts Council

CFO South Africa Newsletter | Thursday 27 August Dear CFO South Africa Member, Read Exclusive CFO South Africa Articles Learning from award-winning Africa CFO Greg Davis (Standard Bank) The Standard Bank Africa CFO also contributed to various of our events. In May this year Davis received the Moving into Africa Award at the CFO Awards. In an exclusive interview we spoke to him about promoting “a culture of sharing and interaction”, his take on the CFO role and the way he sees banking develop in Africa. Plaudits for clean audit National Arts Council For the first time since its inception in 1997, the National Arts Council (NAC) of South Africa has received a clean audit. The Auditor-General South Africa, Thembekile Kimi Makwetu, awarded the entity a clean audit for the 2014/2015 financial period and it was also announced that the NAC has also achieved 90 percent of the targets stated in its Annual Performance Plan. CFOs discuss their role as change agents at intimate dinner Never has there been a time when IT and business have experienced so many synergies and when the need to transform was so consistently urgent. Change management was the topic of an intimate networking dinner organised by CFO South Africa in partnership with Oracle and principal sponsor KPMG – both at the forefront of fast-tracking change – at the prestigious Four Season Westcliff hotel in Johannesburg on Thursday evening, 20 August 2015. Finance executives from various industries took full advantage of the opportunity to swap notes with their peers and expand their knowledge bases. Read more exclusive articles on CFO.co.za - Editorial: the real reason for the #randslide - Aveng attributes loss of share value to economic slowdown - Bad news for SA's GDP - Brimstone reports a R480.1 million loss - Shoprite profits soar, opens 35 new stores across Afric - AngloGold Ashanti generates free cash flow in Q2 RSVP for CFO Event "Digital Transformation" 17 September 16.00 - 20.00 - 54 on Bath Boutique Hotel - Sandton In no time at all digital transformation has had an enormous impact on our organizations and business models. And this is just the beginning. How can we understand this digital transformation, and see the financial opportunities and consequences for the business? Join us for this event, and you will find the inspiration, the examples and the knowledge you need to embrace the opportunities technology has to offer. Program 16.00 Opening & Reception 17.00 Round Table Discussion - The Impact of Digital Transformation A new generation of communication technology, mobile Internet, unlimited data storage and incredibly rapid access to information sources. In no time at all, this transformation has had an enormous impact on our organizations and business models. And this is just the beginning. In the new digital reality, people have the opportunity to freely share their opinions, experiences, ideas, emotions and complaints en masse and anonymously. Markets have never been so transparent, putting the customer back in charge. How can we understand this digital transformation, and see its financial opportunities and consequences for the business? 17.00 Master Class Planning, Budgeting & Forecasting in the 21st Century Today, many CFOs are turning to rolling forecasts to inspire and lead their organisations to superior performance. Hear experts on the best practices of strategic planning in today’s fast changing world. They will present the latest insights and the CFO research results on technology driven budgeting and forecasting. Also they will discuss the 5 key points of forecasting and how to master the cutting edge tools and techniques and how to integrate budgeting and rolling forecasts with other management systems to ensure to achieve a superior performance. With Zafar Mohamed, CFO McDonalds SA, Aarti Mohan, Product Leader Performance Management Oracle Europe & Africa, Brad McCreedy, Director Business Intelligence KPMG, Derik Rothman, Director Futuresense, Carl Janse van Rensburg, Operations Director Intellient and Joël Roerig, Editor CFO South Africa. 17.00 Public Chapter Round Table - What if Steve Jobs led a public entity? The success of a company like Apple is borne of their ability to radically break with today's conventions. Their way of working is not just based on technological shrewdness. Inspiration, creativity and the will to do things differently are equally important in this case. The vision of Steve Jobs opened the doors to a whole new industry and new ways of value creation. What can we as Public CFOs learn from that? 18.45 Café & 10 things you need to know about Cyber Security Keynote by Nathan Desfontaines, Information Security & Protection & Business Resilience Manager at KPMG. Nathan is a leader in ensuring the success of information security through a combination of business and technical acumen. He is a leading subject matter expert in penetration testing, vulnerability assessments, risk assessments and information security management as well as information security strategy development and implementation. Nathan will update you on the 10 most important things about cyber security every CFO should know but were too afraid to ask. Interact, learn, connect and discuss the challenges that you are facing with, with your peers over a drink at the CFO Café. Build your network and meet other top CFOs and financials. Register here now. Sponsors CFO South Africa Event: Continuous Professional Development Points Did you know all events of CFO South Africa are eligible for SAICA CPD points? By attending CFO South Africa's events and training courses you will stay compliant. Sign up for the next mind-blowing Fintech Event in Stellenbosch Join the FinTech Africa Event 20 October in Stellenbosch. At this meeting 100 insiders, experts, startups and investors discuss the developments and challenges for FinTech in Africa. Program: 15.30 Welcome and introduction to the African FinTech initiative By Graham Fehrsen, Country Manager CFO South Africa and FinTech Africa 16.05 Big organisations are doomed By Martijn Aslander, international speaker and Dave van Niekerk, CEO GetBucks Why small companies are better, smarter and faster and more fun. Why big corporates fear for their future. Why the age of abundance will change everything. 17.00 Panel discussion "The future of FinTech in Africa" Startup, bankers, investors and industry insiders discuss the challenges & opportunities for FinTech in Africa. Are we missing out in Africa?This event is organised by FinTech Africa. The ecosystem that connects FinTech startups, investors, corporates and advisors. Join the next Fintech event in Stellenbosch and register now for Tuesday 20 October - 15.30 - 19.00. Join the ultimate peer to peer advisory network Various CFOs and finance directors from Eskom, Nedbank, Transnet, Alexander Forbes Standard Charered Bank, Hollard, Absa, Business Connexion and Super Group are members of CFO South Africa. Your peers understand best the issues you face and the challenges that impact your business. Together you will share your experiences at CFO South Africa’s events and help you advance in your career, company and knowledge. Get introduced to experienced colleagues that are happy to share their knowledge with you. Peer-to-peer consulting is by far the best and most cost effective way to help you solve problems. Are you interested? Please see our membership page for more information here. Visit Finance Indaba Africa 2016 Finance Indaba Africa is the biggest annual exhibition and conference for financial managers and specialists in Africa. Over 1000 visitors are coming to Finance Indaba Africa to improve financial performance. Visitors are looking for growth, better and faster insights, more control and higher efficiency. Visitors are looking for ideas, inspiration, vendors and advisers and are planning to invest. Visitors are eager to boost their companies, networks and careers. Where & when? Sandton Convention Centre 13 & 14 October 2016. For more information please visit Finance-Indaba.co.za. Would you like to become an exhibitor or you want to visit the indaba? Please contact Graham Fehrsen at [email protected] or at +27 11 083 7515. Read the first CFO Magazine South Africa Who are South Africa's leading CFOs? How do successful CFOs move into Africa? Why should you transform your finance function and how can you do it? How do you attract and retain talent? Who are the preferred advisors to South African CFOs? Read the latest insights from the CFO Award winning CFOs: Simon Ridley, Standard Bank, Anoj Singh, Transnet, Colin Brown, Super Group and Aarti Takoordeen, JSE and also featured interviews with Sizwe Nxasana, CEO Firstrand, Mike Brown, CEO Nedbank, Brett Goschen, CFO MTN, Brooks Mparutsa, CFO Hollard and Irene Singo, CFO Dep. Mineral Resources. As our online member we would like to give you the opportunity to read the first ever CFO Magazine South Africa online and free of charge HERE. Would you like to advertise in the next issue out November? Please contact Jurrien Morsch at [email protected] or at +27 11 083 7515. CFO Awards 2016 - Reserve your table now Buy a table for the CFO Awards and meet 300 of South Africa's leading CFOs. Demonstrate thought leadership, extend your network and develop business. You are seated with CFOs and finance directors from the top companies of South Africa. You are also more than welcome to join the CFO Conference preceding the CFO Awards dinner with your colleagues. Join us Thursday 12 May 2016 at the beautiful Summer Place. Don't wait too long, first come, first served. Become a partner or attend with your finance team and buy a table here. For more information check out CFOAwards.co.za. Upcoming CFO South Africa Events Join the CFO Events with inspiring hosts and experts who will share their insights and experiences with you. Register now for these events and boost your company, network, career and knowledge. CFO South Africa Events in 2015 Sept 17 Johannesburg | Digital Transformation Oct 20 Stellenbosch| Fintech Investment Event Oct 22 Johannesburg | Finance Transformation Nov 19 Johannesburg | Risk, Compliance & Control Register now for one of the upcoming CFO South Africa Events. Please note that all our CFO South Africa events are for senior financial executives. CFO South Africa offers Platinum memberships to CFOs and finance directors. For more information please have a look here and contact Jurrien Morsch at [email protected] Stay connected with CFO South Africa Follow CFO South Africa on Twitter and LinkedIn Stay up to date on what is happening in the world of finance by following us on Twitter @CFOSouthAfrica and LinkedIn. Next to that you can keep track of newly published interviews with CFOs and CEOs. Feel free to contact us Any suggestions or comments are welcome. Kind Regards, Graham Fehrsen Managing Director CFO South Africa | [email protected] To control which emails you receive from CFO South Africa, please change your email preferences at cfo.co.za by selecting under settings "I do not want to receive emails from CFO South Africa | Finance Professionals South Africa"

New CFO for Marelli Motori

As of 1 June 2015, Marco Rondelli is the new CFO of Marelli Motori, a company founded more than 100 years ago and which is one of the leading suppliers of generators to the industrial, petrochemical and marine industries sectors. The company services its African business from regional headquarters in Johannesburg.

Bad news for SA's GDP

While many South Africans sit with their fingers crossed most days, hoping the country's economic situation will soon start to improve, it seems this is not the case.

Editorial: the real reason for the #randslide

I am often amused or slightly irritated - sometimes both - when I read the daily news about the rand. It is not that I don't care about the occasional ups and the seemingly more frequent downs of our currency, but the reasons given for its tremors are usually suspect to say the least. The president did X, employees strike in sector Y or something about sentiment Z... Common denominator is often that we think that small local upheaval has a lot do with how or currency fares, but the latest plunge - to a 14 year low - is sufficient evidence this isn't the case.

Aveng attributes loss of share value to economic slowdown

Operating primarily in the infrastructure sector, Aveng Group announced a revenue decrease of 17%, from R53 billion in 2014 to R43.9 billion. Net operating earnings decreased to a loss of R288 million (2014: R799 million profit), while headline earnings per share decreased to a loss of 144,3c (2014: 112,5c profit).

Learning from award-winning Africa CFO Greg Davis (Standard Bank)

At CFO South Africa we already know Greg Davis for a while, thanks to his great series of Expert Insights on:

AngloGold Ashanti generates free cash flow in Q2

AngloGold Ashanti Ltd, a global gold mining company formed in 2004 through the merger of AngloGold and the Ashanti Goldfields Corporation, has announced that it generated $71 million of free cash flow in Q2 of this year, with production and costs beating guidance on the back of what it calls another strong performance from its international mines and a recovery from its South African-based operations.

Plaudits for clean audit National Arts Council

For the first time since its inception in 1997, the National Arts Council (NAC) of South Africa has received a clean audit. The Auditor-General South Africa, Thembekile Kimi Makwetu, awarded the entity a clean audit for the 2014/2015 financial period and it was also announced that the NAC has also achieved 90 percent of the targets stated in its Annual Performance Plan.

Shoprite profits soar, opens 35 new stores across Africa

Africa's largest retailer, Shoprite, has increased its market share for the ninth year running, meeting its profit estimates with a 10.8% rise in full-year earnings.

CFOs discuss their role as change agents at intimate dinner

Never has there been a time when IT and business have experienced so many synergies and when the need to transform was so consistently urgent. Change management was the topic of an intimate networking dinner organised by CFO South Africa in partnership with Oracle and principal sponsor KPMG – both at the forefront of fast-tracking change – at the prestigious Four Season Westcliff hotel in Johannesburg on Thursday evening, 20 August 2015. Finance executives from various industries took full advantage of the opportunity to swap notes with their peers and expand their knowledge bases.

Brimstone reports a R480.1 million loss

Brimstone Investment Corporation Ltd, a South African black-controlled and managed investment company, has reported an H1 loss of R480.1 million. During the same period last year, the company declared a profit of R309.7 million. Intrinsic net asset value also decreased, dropping from R4.9 billion at 31 December 2014 to R4.1 billion, as did gross assets, dropping from R7.9 billion at 31 December 2014 to R7.6 billion.

Newsletter: 5 areas of improvement for integrated reports | 9 mega trends that shape Africa's future | Once empowered, always empowered?

CFO South Africa Newsletter | Thursday 20 August Dear CFO South Africa Member, Read Exclusive CFO South Africa Articles Prof. Watson: 5 areas of improvement for integrated reports A fellow adjudicator of EY’s Excellence in Integrated Reporting awards asked me to identify 5 areas where companies should be focussing on in order to improve their integrated reports. This is my response based on my review of the 2014 integrated reports of the 100 largest listed companies and 10 largest state owned companies. Triple CFO Award winner Colin Brown raises the bar at Super Group You need to understand what world class means and then raise the bar for your own company.” There is no doubt that Colin Brown knows what he is talking about. In his position as Group CFO, he assisted the Group Chief Executive Officer, Peter Mountford, and the current leadership in rescuing the flailing Super Group from the abyss five years ago, turning it into a profitable transport logistics and mobility group once again. 9 mega trends that shape Africa's future Seven of the 10 fastest growing economies in the world are in Africa and although all sorts of risks need to be negotiated by investors and entrepreneurs in African countries, the continent is getting more and more conducive to business. Seyi Bickersteth, Chairman, KPMG Africa and National Senior Partner of the Nigerian Practice, has listed 9 mega trends that will shape the future of Africa. His original post was published here on the KPMG blog. Read more exclusive articles on CFO.co.za - Simon Ridley retires - CFO of the Year 2014 to leave Standard Bank - Editorial: what about 'once empowered, always empowered'? - Gustav Raubenheimer appointed as CFO of African Bank - Liberty Holdings to invest $80 million in Nigeria Last change to register for the Money Expo 2015 Hear from some of the country's leading experts on innovative financial solutions, ideas and unique perspectives and gain access to 50 invaluable workshops and learning opportunities. Be a part of the experience and join the 5000 attendees and key members of the financial advisory community 21 & 22 August at the Sandton Convention Centre. Speakers include: - Nadir Thokan, Investment Strategist - Kyle Hulett, Head of Multi Asset Class Investments at Argon Asset Management - Haley Parry, Co-Founder of the Money School - Andrew Newell, Head of Business Development at Cannon Asset Managers - Andrew Dittberner, Seniot Portfolio Manager at Cannon Asset Managers - Tim Powell, Director at Forex Capital - Gary Kayle, Co-Founder at The Money School Get insights on smart trading, launching your first start-up, advancing your wealth after 40, maximising investments at 50 and securing your financial comfort in your later years. Register now at TheMoneyExpo.co.za RSVP for CFO Event "Digital Transformation" 17 September 16.00 - 20.00 in Sandton In no time at all digital transformation has had an enormous impact on our organizations and business models. And this is just the beginning. How can we understand this digital transformation, and see the financial opportunities and consequences for the business? Join us for this event, and you will find the inspiration, the examples and the knowledge you need to embrace the opportunities technology has to offer. Program 16.00 Opening & Reception 17.00 Round Table Discussion - What if Steve Jobs led your company? The success of a company like Apple is borne of their ability to radically break with today's conventions. Their way of working is not just based on technological shrewdness. Inspiration, creativity and the will to do things differently are equally important in this case. The vision of Steve Jobs opened the doors to a whole new industry and new ways of value creation. What can we as CFOs learn from that? 17.00 Master Class - Planning, Budgeting & Forecasting in the 21st century Today, many CFOs are turning to rolling forecasts to inspire and lead their organisations to superior performance. Hear experts on the best practices of strategic planning in today’s fast changing world. They will present the latest insights and the CFO research results on technology driven budgeting and forecasting. Also they will discuss the 5 key points of forecasting and how to master the cutting edge tools and techniques and how to integrate budgeting and rolling forecasts with other management systems to ensure to achieve a superior performance. With Zafar Mohamed, CFO McDonalds SA, Aarti Mohan, Product Leader Performance Management Oracle Europe & Africa, Brad McCreedy, Director Business Intelligence KPMG, Derik Rothman, Director Futuresense, Carl Janse van Rensburg, Operations Director Intellient and Joël Roerig, Editor CFO South Africa. 17.00 Public Chapter Round Table Discussion - What if Steve Jobs led a public entity? The success of a company like Apple is borne of their ability to radically break with today's conventions. Their way of working is not just based on technological shrewdness. Inspiration, creativity and the will to do things differently are equally important in this case. The vision of Steve Jobs opened the doors to a whole new industry and new ways of value creation. What can we as Public CFOs learn from that? 18.45 CFO Café Interact, learn, connect and discuss the challenges that you are facing with, with your peers over a drink at the CFO Café. Build your network and meet other top CFOs and financials. Register here now. Sponsors CFO South Africa Event: Continuous Professional Development Points Did you know all events of CFO South Africa are eligible for SAICA CPD points? By attending CFO South Africa's events and training courses you will stay compliant. Sign up for the next mind-blowing Fintech Event in Stellenbosch Join the FinTech Africa Event 20 October in Stellenbosch. At this meeting 100 insiders, experts, startups and investors discuss the developments and challenges for FinTech in Africa. Program: 15.30 Welcome and introduction to the African FinTech initiative By Graham Fehrsen, Country Manager CFO South Africa and FinTech Africa 16.05 Big organisations are doomed By Martijn Aslander, international speaker and Dave van Niekerk, CEO GetBucks Why small companies are better, smarter and faster and more fun. Why big corporates fear for their future. Why the age of abundance will change everything. 17.00 Panel discussion "The future of FinTech in Africa" Startup, bankers, investors and industry insiders discuss the challenges & opportunities for FinTech in Africa. Are we missing out in Africa?This event is organised by FinTech Africa. The ecosystem that connects FinTech startups, investors, corporates and advisors. Join the next Fintech event in Stellenbosch and register now for Tuesday 20 October - 15.30 - 19.00. Join the ultimate peer to peer advisory network Various CFOs and finance directors from Eskom, Nedbank, Transnet, Alexander Forbes Standard Charered Bank, Hollard, Absa, Business Connexion and Super Group are members of CFO South Africa. Your peers understand best the issues you face and the challenges that impact your business. Together you will share your experiences at CFO South Africa’s events and help you advance in your career, company and knowledge. Get introduced to experienced colleagues that are happy to share their knowledge with you. Peer-to-peer consulting is by far the best and most cost effective way to help you solve problems. Are you interested? Please see our membership page for more information here. Visit Finance Indaba Africa 2016 Finance Indaba Africa is the biggest annual exhibition and conference for financial managers and specialists in Africa. Over 1000 visitors are coming to Finance Indaba Africa to improve financial performance. Visitors are looking for growth, better and faster insights, more control and higher efficiency. Visitors are looking for ideas, inspiration, vendors and advisers and are planning to invest. Visitors are eager to boost their companies, networks and careers. Where & when? Sandton Convention Centre 13 & 14 October 2016. For more information please visit Finance-Indaba.co.za. Would you like to become an exhibitor or you want to visit the indaba? Please contact Graham Fehrsen at [email protected] or at +27 11 083 7515. Read the first CFO Magazine South Africa Who are South Africa's leading CFOs? How do successful CFOs move into Africa? Why should you transform your finance function and how can you do it? How do you attract and retain talent? Who are the preferred advisors to South African CFOs? Read the latest insights from the CFO Award winning CFOs: Simon Ridley, Standard Bank, Anoj Singh, Transnet, Colin Brown, Super Group and Aarti Takoordeen, JSE and also featured interviews with Sizwe Nxasana, CEO Firstrand, Mike Brown, CEO Nedbank, Brett Goschen, CFO MTN, Brooks Mparutsa, CFO Hollard and Irene Singo, CFO Dep. Mineral Resources. As our online member we would like to give you the opportunity to read the first ever CFO Magazine South Africa online and free of charge HERE. Would you like to advertise in the next issue out November? Please contact Jurrien Morsch at [email protected] or at +27 11 083 7515. CFO Awards 2016 - Reserve your table now Buy a table for the CFO Awards and meet 300 of South Africa's leading CFOs. Demonstrate thought leadership, extend your network and develop business. You are seated with CFOs and finance directors from the top companies of South Africa. You are also more than welcome to join the CFO Conference preceding the CFO Awards dinner with your colleagues. Join us Thursday 12 May 2016 at the beautiful Summer Place. Don't wait too long, first come, first served. Become a partner or attend with your finance team and buy a table here. For more information check out CFOAwards.co.za. Upcoming CFO South Africa Events Join the CFO Events with inspiring hosts and experts who will share their insights and experiences with you. Register now for these events and boost your company, network, career and knowledge. CFO South Africa Events in 2015 Sept 17 Johannesburg | Digital Transformation Oct 20 Stellenbosch| Fintech Investment Event Oct 22 Johannesburg | Finance Transformation Nov 19 Johannesburg | Risk, Compliance & Control Register now for one of the upcoming CFO South Africa Events. Please note that all our CFO South Africa events are for senior financial executives. CFO South Africa offers Platinum memberships to CFOs and finance directors. For more information please have a look here and contact Jurrien Morsch at [email protected] Stay connected with CFO South Africa Follow CFO South Africa on Twitter and LinkedIn Stay up to date on what is happening in the world of finance by following us on Twitter @CFOSouthAfrica and LinkedIn. Next to that you can keep track of newly published interviews with CFOs and CEOs. Feel free to contact us Any suggestions or comments are welcome. Kind Regards, Graham Fehrsen Managing Director CFO South Africa | [email protected] To control which emails you receive from CFO South Africa, please change your email preferences at cfo.co.za by selecting under settings "I do not want to receive emails from CFO South Africa | Finance Professionals South Africa"

Liberty Holdings to invest $80 million in Nigeria

South Africa's fourth-largest insurer, Liberty Holdings, has announced plans to invest up to $80 million in two deals in Nigeria by end 2015. Casper Troskie, Liberty CFO, noted that the company has been negotiating with parties in Nigeria to acquire stakes in their businesses, and that Liberty has made good progress in this regard

Gustav Raubenheimer appointed as CFO of African Bank

As of end July 2015, Gustav Raubenheimer is CFO Designate of Good Bank (African Bank) and its new holding company.

Editorial: what about 'once empowered, always empowered'?

Rest assured, I am not going to give a verdict on 'once empowered, always empowered'. The topic is simply too complicated and hotly-debated for me to barge in like a bull in a China shop. Fact is though, that this controversial part of B-BBEE is keeping CFOs more than busy. While the policy is still up for debate and legal wrangling, other sectors already had to deal with the scrapping of the policy.

Triple CFO Award winner Colin Brown raises the bar at Super Group

“You need to understand what world class means and then raise the bar for your own company.” There is no doubt that Colin Brown knows what he is talking about. In his position as Group CFO, he assisted the Group Chief Executive Officer, Peter Mountford, and the current leadership in rescuing the flailing Super Group from the abyss five years ago, turning it into a profitable transport logistics and mobility group once again.

Simon Ridley retires - CFO of the Year 2014 to leave Standard Bank

Standard Bank Group CFO Simon Ridley will retire next year April. By then he will be 60 years old, the retirement age for executive directors at the bank. On Friday joint CEO Ben Kruger said Standard Bank has not decided on Ridley's successor yet. During the same press conference Ridley announced that the Group has achieved R10.5 billion headline earnings for the group.

Prof. Watson: 5 areas of improvement for integrated reports

A fellow adjudicator of EY’s Excellence in Integrated Reporting awards asked me to identify 5 areas where companies should be focussing on in order to improve their integrated reports. This is my response based on my review of the 2014 integrated reports of the 100 largest listed companies and 10 largest state owned companies.

9 mega trends that shape Africa's future

Seven of the 10 fastest growing economies in the world are in Africa and although all sorts of risks need to be negotiated by investors and entrepreneurs in African countries, the continent is getting more and more conducive to business. Seyi Bickersteth, Chairman, KPMG Africa and National Senior Partner of the Nigerian Practice, has listed 9 mega trends that will shape the future of Africa. His original post was published here on the KPMG blog.

Newsletter: Meet CFO Award winner Colin Brown Super Group | Recent developments offer significant opportunities in Nigeria | CFO Spur tasting and testing the Spur DNA

CFO South Africa Newsletter | Thursday 13 August Dear CFO South Africa Member, Read Exclusive CFO South Africa Articles Meet Colin Brown (Super Group), winner Finance & Technology Awa... I am not telling any secrets when I say that Colin Brown was one of the hot favourites for the CFO of the Year Award 2015. After scooping up two major awards during the first CFO Awards in 2014 - Strategy Execution and Digital Transformation - the Super Group story had only gotten better and Brown is considered one of the key engineers of the remarkable turnaround and renewed ascend of the South African firm. However, the panel of judges felt that Deon Viljoen's remarkable work at Alexander Forbes deserved the recognition and Brown was pipped to the post. Spur CFO Ronel van Dijk: tasting and testing the Spur DNA She visited our very first CFO event in Cape Town, featured in one of our first interviews way back in 2012 and recently gave some sizzling insight in the international expansion and IT innovation at the Spur Group. This year Ronel van Dijk (favourite food: ribs) was nominated for the 2015 CFO Awards and we spoke to her about her relationship with CEO Pierre van Tonder, her take on coaching, her deep involvement in everything strategy - from testing the equipment to tasting the food - and her passion for the Spur Foundation. KPMG: Recent developments offer significant opportunities in Nigeria It is no secret that doing business in Nigeria is not for the faint-hearted. A tricky security situation combined with rampant corruption and fuzzy policies make it hard for entrepreneurs and big businesses to make money in the West-African country, despite its large economy and population. In a recent 2 part feature on the blog of our principal sponsor KPMG, Laurens Kreuze - a Dutch KPMG Partner stationed in Lagos - concludes that the new wind that is blowing after Muhammadu Buhari was elected president. Read more exclusive articles on CFO.co.za - Liberty wins 2015 EY Integrated Reporting award Register for the Money Expo 2015 Hear from some of the country's leading experts on innovative financial solutions, ideas and unique perspectives and gain access to 50 invaluable workshops and learning opportunities. Be a part of the experience and join the 5000 attendees and key members of the financial advisory community 21 & 22 August at the Sandton Convention Centre. Speakers include: - Nadir Thokan, Investment Strategist - Kyle Hulett, Head of Multi Asset Class Investments at Argon Asset Management - Haley Parry, Co-Founder of the Money School - Andrew Newell, Head of Business Development at Cannon Asset Managers - Andrew Dittberner, Seniot Portfolio Manager at Cannon Asset Managers - Tim Powell, Director at Forex Capital - Gary Kayle, Co-Founder at The Money School Get insights on smart trading, launching your first start-up, advancing your wealth after 40, maximising investments at 50 and securing your financial comfort in your later years. Register now at TheMoneyExpo.co.za RSVP for CFO Event "Digital Transformation" 17 September 16.00 - 20.00 in Sandton In no time at all digital transformation has had an enormous impact on our organizations and business models. And this is just the beginning. How can we understand this digital transformation, and see the financial opportunities and consequences for the business? Join us for this event, and you will find the inspiration, the examples and the knowledge you need to embrace the opportunities technology has to offer. Program 16.00 Opening & Reception 17.00 Round Table Discussion - What if Steve Jobs led your company? The success of a company like Apple is borne of their ability to radically break with today's conventions. Their way of working is not just based on technological shrewdness. Inspiration, creativity and the will to do things differently are equally important in this case. The vision of Steve Jobs opened the doors to a whole new industry and new ways of value creation. What can we as CFOs learn from that? 17.00 Master Class - Planning, Budgeting & Forecasting in the 21st century Today, many CFOs are turning to rolling forecasts to inspire and lead their organisations to superior performance. Hear experts on the best practices of strategic planning in today’s fast changing world. They will present the latest insights and the CFO research results on technology driven budgeting and forecasting. Also they will discuss the 5 key points of forecasting and how to master the cutting edge tools and techniques and how to integrate budgeting and rolling forecasts with other management systems to ensure to achieve a superior performance. With Aarti Mohan, Product Leader Performance Management Oracle Europe & Africa and Derik Rothman, Director Futuresense. More speakers will be confirmed soon. 17.00 Public Chapter Round Table Discussion - What if Steve Jobs led a public entity? The success of a company like Apple is borne of their ability to radically break with today's conventions. Their way of working is not just based on technological shrewdness. Inspiration, creativity and the will to do things differently are equally important in this case. The vision of Steve Jobs opened the doors to a whole new industry and new ways of value creation. What can we as Public CFOs learn from that? 18.45 CFO Café Interact, learn, connect and discuss the challenges that you are facing with, with your peers over a drink at the CFO Café. Build your network and meet other top CFOs and financials. Register here now. Sponsors CFO South Africa Event: Continuous Professional Development Points Did you know all events of CFO South Africa are eligible for SAICA CPD points? By attending CFO South Africa's events and training courses you will stay compliant. Sign up for the next mind-blowing Fintech Event in Stellenbosch Join the FinTech Africa Event 20 October in Stellenbosch. At this meeting 100 insiders, experts, startups and investors discuss the developments and challenges for FinTech in Africa. Program: 15.30 Welcome and introduction to the African FinTech initiative By Graham Fehrsen, Country Manager CFO South Africa and FinTech Africa 16.05 Big organisations are doomed By Martijn Aslander, international speaker and Dave van Niekerk, CEO GetBucks Why small companies are better, smarter and faster and more fun. Why big corporates fear for their future. Why the age of abundance will change everything. 17.00 Panel discussion "The future of FinTech in Africa" Startup, bankers, investors and industry insiders discuss the challenges & opportunities for FinTech in Africa. Are we missing out in Africa?This event is organised by FinTech Africa. The ecosystem that connects FinTech startups, investors, corporates and advisors. Join the next Fintech event in Stellenbosch and register now for Tuesday 20 October - 15.30 - 19.00. Join the ultimate peer to peer advisory network Various CFOs and finance directors from Eskom, Nedbank, Transnet, Alexander Forbes Standard Charered Bank, Hollard, Absa, Business Connexion and Super Group are members of CFO South Africa. Your peers understand best the issues you face and the challenges that impact your business. Together you will share your experiences at CFO South Africa’s events and help you advance in your career, company and knowledge. Get introduced to experienced colleagues that are happy to share their knowledge with you. Peer-to-peer consulting is by far the best and most cost effective way to help you solve problems. Are you interested? Please see our membership page for more information here. Visit Finance Indaba Africa 2016 Finance Indaba Africa is the biggest annual exhibition and conference for financial managers and specialists in Africa. Over 1000 visitors are coming to Finance Indaba Africa to improve financial performance. Visitors are looking for growth, better and faster insights, more control and higher efficiency. Visitors are looking for ideas, inspiration, vendors and advisers and are planning to invest. Visitors are eager to boost their companies, networks and careers. Where & when? Sandton Convention Centre 13 & 14 October 2016. For more information please visit Finance-Indaba.co.za. Would you like to become an exhibitor or you want to visit the indaba? Please contact Graham Fehrsen at [email protected] or at +27 11 083 7515. Read the first CFO Magazine South Africa Who are South Africa's leading CFOs? How do successful CFOs move into Africa? Why should you transform your finance function and how can you do it? How do you attract and retain talent? Who are the preferred advisors to South African CFOs? Read the latest insights from the CFO Award winning CFOs: Simon Ridley, Standard Bank, Anoj Singh, Transnet, Colin Brown, Super Group and Aarti Takoordeen, JSE and also featured interviews with Sizwe Nxasana, CEO Firstrand, Mike Brown, CEO Nedbank, Brett Goschen, CFO MTN, Brooks Mparutsa, CFO Hollard and Irene Singo, CFO Dep. Mineral Resources. As our online member we would like to give you the opportunity to read the first ever CFO Magazine South Africa online and free of charge HERE. Would you like to advertise in the next issue out November? Please contact Jurrien Morsch at [email protected] or at +27 11 083 7515. CFO Awards 2016 - Reserve your table now Buy a table for the CFO Awards and meet 300 of South Africa's leading CFOs. Demonstrate thought leadership, extend your network and develop business. You are seated with CFOs and finance directors from the top companies of South Africa. You are also more than welcome to join the CFO Conference preceding the CFO Awards dinner with your colleagues. Join us Thursday 12 May 2016 at the beautiful Summer Place. Don't wait too long, first come, first served. Become a partner or attend with your finance team and buy a table here. For more information check out CFOAwards.co.za. Upcoming CFO South Africa Events Join the CFO Events with inspiring hosts and experts who will share their insights and experiences with you. Register now for these events and boost your company, network, career and knowledge. CFO South Africa Events in 2015 Sept 17 Johannesburg | Digital Transformation Oct 20 Stellenbosch| Fintech Investment Event Oct 22 Johannesburg | Finance Transformation Nov 19 Johannesburg | Risk, Compliance & Control Register now for one of the upcoming CFO South Africa Events. Please note that all our CFO South Africa events are for senior financial executives. CFO South Africa offers Platinum memberships to CFOs and finance directors. For more information please have a look here and contact Jurrien Morsch at [email protected] Stay connected with CFO South Africa Follow CFO South Africa on Twitter and LinkedIn Stay up to date on what is happening in the world of finance by following us on Twitter @CFOSouthAfrica and LinkedIn. Next to that you can keep track of newly published interviews with CFOs and CEOs. Feel free to contact us Any suggestions or comments are welcome. Kind Regards, Graham Fehrsen Managing Director CFO South Africa | [email protected]

Meet Colin Brown (Super Group), winner Finance & Technology Award 2015

I am not telling any secrets when I say that Colin Brown was one of the hot favourites for the CFO of the Year Award 2015. After scooping up two major awards during the first CFO Awards in 2014 - Strategy Execution and Digital Transformation - the Super Group story had only gotten better and Brown is considered one of the key engineers of the remarkable turnaround and renewed ascend of the South African firm. However, the panel of judges felt that Deon Viljoen's remarkable work at Alexander Forbes deserved the recognition and Brown was pipped to the post.

Spur CFO Ronel van Dijk: tasting, testing and the Spur DNA

She visited our very first CFO event in Cape Town, featured in one of our first interviews way back in 2012 and recently gave some sizzling insight in the international expansion and IT innovation at the Spur Group. This year Ronel van Dijk (favourite food: ribs) was nominated for the 2015 CFO Awards and we spoke to her about her relationship with CEO Pierre van Tonder, her take on coaching, her deep involvement in everything strategy - from testing the equipment to tasting the food - and her passion for the Spur Foundation.

Liberty wins 2015 EY Integrated Reporting award

Liberty Group has won the 2015 EY Excellence in Integrated Reporting Awards. The prize, announced earlier today, is a great feather in the cap of CFO Casper Troskie, who has been with the financial services company since 2010. We spoke to Troskie earlier this year during an exclusive interview, in which has recalled his proudest moments, elaborated on the culture change that Liberty and gave some valuable advice for ambitious CAs. The former Standard Bank CFO said he is "in the best job I have ever been in... It has been a great journey, but I see the task only as a third of the way done.”

KPMG: Recent developments offer significant opportunities in Nigeria

It is no secret that doing business in Nigeria is not for the faint-hearted. A tricky security situation combined with rampant corruption and fuzzy policies make it hard for entrepreneurs and big businesses to make money in the West-African country, despite its large economy and population. In a recent 2 part feature on the blog of our principal sponsor KPMG, Laurens Kreuze - a Dutch KPMG Partner stationed in Lagos - concludes that the new wind that is blowing after Muhammadu Buhari was elected president.

Newsletter: 10 reasons to do business in Ghana | inspiring CFO Master Class from Alexander Forbes | Hollard CFO Brooks Mparutsa goes international

CFO South Africa Newsletter | Thursday 6 August Dear CFO South Africa Member, Read Exclusive CFO South Africa Articles Hollard CFO Brooks Mparutsa goes international, replaced by Absa ace It has never been a secret that Brooks Mparutsa has international ambitions. He told me as much during the candid CFO of the Week interview that we published earlier this year. Brooks, who was nominated for the 2015 CFO Awards, has a real passion for Africa and a recent executive reshuffle at the Hollard Insurance is making is possible to follow his dreams, with Brooks being appointed Executive Director: International from 1 January 2016. Lessons from Alexander Forbes at inspiring CFO Master Class "If you think you have a good deal, look at all the stakeholders again and craft an exceptional deal." That was one of the messages from Deon Viljoen, CFO at Alexander Forbes, at the CFO event 'Executing an effective growth strategy' at the Nedbank headquarters in Johannesburg on 30 July 2015. Viljoen was elected CFO of the Year in May and his rendition of the way he has dealt with the turbulent recent history at the country's biggest pension funds administrator made it clear why. "I have aged in dog years, but also have gained dog years experience," he said. Denel CFO Fikile Mhlontlo: from bailouts to superiority Denel CFO Fikile Mhlontlo has been instrumental in cost cutting, efficiency drives and improving financial ratios. Together with the other executives he has changed the state-owned aerospace and defence technology conglomerate from a loss-making public enterprise into a successful, profit-making company with an increasingly international focus. Denel’s international image is now superior, says Mhlontlo. “The strategy of decentralisation and partnering has worked wonders.” Read more exclusive articles on CFO.co.za - Expert Insight - 10 reasons to do business in Ghana Register for the Money Expo 2015 Hear from some of the country's leading experts on innovative financial solutions, ideas and unique perspectives and gain access to 50 invaluable workshops and learning opportunities. Be a part of the experience and join the 5000 attendees and key members of the financial advisory community 21 & 22 August at the Sandton Convention Centre. Speakers include: - Nadir Thokan, Investment Strategist - Kyle Hulett, Head of Multi Asset Class Investments at Argon Asset Management - Haley Parry, Co-Founder of the Money School - Andrew Newell, Head of Business Development at Cannon Asset Managers - Andrew Dittberner, Seniot Portfolio Manager at Cannon Asset Managers - Tim Powell, Director at Forex Capital - Gary Kayle, Co-Founder at The Money School Get insights on smart trading, launching your first start-up, advancing your wealth after 40, maximising investments at 50 and securing your financial comfort in your later years. Register now at TheMoneyExpo.co.za Register for CFO Event "Digital Transformation" 17 September 16.00 - 20.00 in Sandton In no time at all digital transformation has had an enormous impact on our organizations and business models. And this is just the beginning. How can we understand this digital transformation, and see the financial opportunities and consequences for the business? Join us for this event, and you will find the inspiration, the examples and the knowledge you need to embrace the opportunities technology has to offer. Interact, learn, connect and discuss the challenges that you are facing with, with your peers over a drink at the CFO Café. Build your network and meet other top CFOs and financials. Register here now. Sponsors CFO South Africa Event: Continuous Professional Development Points Did you know all events of CFO South Africa are eligible for SAICA CPD points? By attending CFO South Africa's events and training courses you will stay compliant. Sign up for the next mind-blowing Fintech Event in Stellenbosch Join the FinTech Africa Event 20 October in Stellenbosch. At this meeting 100 insiders, experts, startups and investors discuss the developments and challenges for FinTech in Africa. Program: 15.30 Welcome and introduction to the African FinTech initiative By Graham Fehrsen, Country Manager CFO South Africa and FinTech Africa 16.05 Big organisations are doomed By Martijn Aslander, international speaker and Dave van Niekerk, CEO GetBucks Why small companies are better, smarter and faster and more fun. Why big corporates fear for their future. Why the age of abundance will change everything. 17.00 Panel discussion "The future of FinTech in Africa" Startup, bankers, investors and industry insiders discuss the challenges & opportunities for FinTech in Africa. Are we missing out in Africa?This event is organised by FinTech Africa. The ecosystem that connects FinTech startups, investors, corporates and advisors. Join the next Fintech event in Stellenbosch and register now for Tuesday 20 October - 15.30 - 19.00. Visit Finance Indaba Africa 2016 Finance Indaba Africa is the biggest annual exhibition and conference for financial managers and specialists in Africa. Over 1000 visitors are coming to Finance Indaba Africa to improve financial performance. Visitors are looking for growth, better and faster insights, more control and higher efficiency. Visitors are looking for ideas, inspiration, vendors and advisers and are planning to invest. Visitors are eager to boost their companies, networks and careers. Where & when? Sandton Convention Centre 13 & 14 October 2016. For more information please visit Finance-Indaba.co.za. Would you like to become an exhibitor or you want to visit the indaba? Please contact Graham Fehrsen at [email protected] or at +27 11 083 7515. Upcoming CFO South Africa Events Join the CFO Events with inspiring hosts and experts who will share their insights and experiences with you. Register now for these events and boost your company, network, career and knowledge. CFO South Africa Events in 2015 Sept 17 Johannesburg | Digital Transformation Oct 20 Stellenbosch| Fintech Investment Event Oct 22 Johannesburg | Finance Transformation Nov 19 Johannesburg | Risk, Compliance & Control Register now for one of the upcoming CFO South Africa Events. Please note that all our CFO South Africa events are for senior financial executives. CFO South Africa offers Platinum memberships to CFOs and finance directors. For more information please have a look here and contact Jurrien Morsch at [email protected] Stay connected with CFO South Africa Follow CFO South Africa on Twitter and LinkedIn Stay up to date on what is happening in the world of finance by following us on Twitter @CFOSouthAfrica and LinkedIn. Next to that you can keep track of newly published interviews with CFOs and CEOs. Feel free to contact us Any suggestions or comments are welcome. Kind Regards, Melle Eijckelhoff Director CFO South Africa | [email protected]

Hollard CFO Brooks Mparutsa goes international, replaced by Absa ace

It has never been a secret that Brooks Mparutsa has international ambitions. He told me as much during the candid CFO of the Week interview that we published earlier this year. Brooks, who was nominated for the 2015 CFO Awards, has a real passion for Africa and a recent executive reshuffle at the Hollard Insurance is making is possible to follow his dreams, with Brooks being appointed Executive Director: International from 1 January 2016.

Denel CFO Fikile Mhlontlo: from bailouts to superiority

Denel CFO Fikile Mhlontlo has been instrumental in cost cutting, efficiency drives and improving financial ratios. Together with the other executives he has changed the state-owned aerospace and defence technology conglomerate from a loss-making public enterprise into a successful, profit-making company with an increasingly international focus. Denel’s international image is now superior, says Mhlontlo. “The strategy of decentralisation and partnering has worked wonders.”

Expert Insight - 10 reasons to do business in Ghana

Ghana is generally considered as the well-behaved little brother of Nigeria by CFOs and investors from South Africa and across the globe. In this Expert Insight Eric Osei, business analyst and author of the recently published book Doing Business in Ghana, lists 10 reasons businesses should consider the friendly West African country.

Lessons from Alexander Forbes at inspiring CFO Master Class

"If you think you have a good deal, look at all the stakeholders again and craft an exceptional deal." That was one of the messages from Deon Viljoen, CFO at Alexander Forbes, at the CFO event 'Executing an effective growth strategy' at the Nedbank headquarters in Johannesburg on 30 July 2015. Viljoen was elected CFO of the Year in May and his rendition of the way he has dealt with the turbulent recent history at the country's biggest pension funds administrator made it clear why. "I have aged in dog years, but also have gained dog years experience," he said.

Newsletter: FinTech innovators and capital need to partner | Grant Morgan, Dimension Data: making savings in the cloud | FinTech Africa event as it happened

CFO South Africa Newsletter | Thursday 30 July Dear CFO South Africa Member, Read Exclusive CFO South Africa Articles FinTech Africa event: as it happened (with all the tweets!) Disruption, the value of failure, attitude, innovation and collaboration were some of the keywords during a riveting FinTech Africa event at GIBS Business School in Johannesburg on Tuesday 28 July 2015. With lifehacker Martijn Aslander as keynote speaker, FinTech guru Nicole Anderson and Wizzit CEO Brian Richardson as presenters and a bunch of the most exciting FinTech experts on a lively panel, the energy in the room was palpable. With well over 100 people from the FinTech ecosystem attending the event, we're already looking forward to putting together the next one. FinTech innovators and capital need to partner - Charles Savage, GT... In South Africa entrepreneurs tend to be very poor at articulating or selling their ideas to capital, that’s according to Charles Savage, Chief Executive Officer at online trading company GT247.com. “When it comes to valuing an income statement, we can compete with the best in the world, but when it comes to valuing a business plan, not so much, because it requires a greater leap of faith,” says Savage. Grant Morgan, Dimension Data: making savings in the cloud "We used to treat our servers like pets, giving them nicknames like Superman... Now we have entire farms of nameless “creatures”. This is automation. Cloud solutions never have IP conflicts or bring down your network and you only pay for what you use,” Grant Morgan, General Manager of Cloud at Dimension Data told the delegates at the inaugural MyBroadband Cloud & Hosting Conference at Gallagher Estate, Midrand, on 9 June. “The motor industry was mechanised to provide quantity and quality at the same time. Machines make fewer mistakes. Today, the same thing is happening in IT." Read more exclusive articles on CFO.co.za - FinTech - MFS starts intra-African remittances revolution through m... Register for the Money Expo 2015 Hear from some of the country's leading experts on innovative financial solutions, ideas and unique perspectives and gain access to 50 invaluable workshops and learning opportunities. Be a part of the experience and join the 5000 attendees and key members of the financial advisory community 21 & 22 August at the Sandton Convention Centre. Speakers include: - Nadir Thokan, Investment Strategist - Kyle Hulett, Head of Multi Asset Class Investments at Argon Asset Management - Haley Parry, Co-Founder of the Money School - Andrew Newell, Head of Business Development at Cannon Asset Managers - Andrew Dittberner, Seniot Portfolio Manager at Cannon Asset Managers - Tim Powell, Director at Forex Capital - Gary Kayle, Co-Founder at The Money School Get insights on smart trading, launching your first start-up, advancing your wealth after 40, maximising investments at 50 and securing your financial comfort in your later years. Register now at TheMoneyExpo.co.za Today CFO Event "Executing an effective growth strategy for 2016 and beyond” Part 2: Executing an effective growth strategy for 2016 and beyond Today at the Nedbank Head Office, Johannesburg 16.00 - 20.00 Numerous business leaders and finance executives have long recognized the need for CFOs to step out of a numbers-focused role and into a true partnership with the business - by participating in strategic planning, providing essential input on funding, managing growth plans and helping to maximize shareholder returns. But now, a growing chorus is calling for a significant new shift in the finance function toward truly business partnership activity and engagement. In this two part series we bring CFOs insights that will help drive their own perspectives and strategies and share best practice for becoming a genuine business partner. Join the CFO South Africa Event today. Program: 16.00 Opening & Reception By Managing Director CFO South Africa, Graham Fehrsen 17.00 Master Class - Executing an effective growth strategy We ask Deon Viljoen, CFO of the Year 2015 (Alexander Forbes), Anthonie de Beer (Ethos Private Equity), Karel Janse van Rensburg (Nedbank) and Natalie Kolbe (Actis) who have been there and done that, what some of the key challenges are and how they see CFOs delivering effectively. 18.30 CFO Café Interact, learn, connect and discuss the challenges that you are facing with, with your peers over a drink at the CFO Café. Build your network and meet other top CFOs and financials. Register here now. Sponsors CFO South Africa Event: Continuous Professional Development Points Did you know all events of CFO South Africa are eligible for SAICA CPD points? By attending CFO South Africa's events and training courses you will stay compliant. Sign up for the next mind-blowing Fintech Event in Stellenbosch Join the FinTech Africa Event 20 October in Stellenbosch. At this meeting 100 insiders, experts, startups and investors discuss the developments and challenges for FinTech in Africa. Program: 15.30 Welcome and introduction to the African FinTech initiative By Graham Fehrsen, Country Manager CFO South Africa and FinTech Africa 16.05 Big organisations are doomed by Martijn Aslander, international speaker Why small companies are better, smarter and faster and more fun. Why big corporates fear for their future. Why the age of abundance will change everything. 17.00 Panel discussion "The future of FinTech in Africa" Startup, bankers, investors and industry insiders discuss the challenges & opportunities for FinTech in Africa. Are we missing out in Africa?This event is organised by FinTech Africa. The ecosystem that connects FinTech startups, investors, corporates and advisors. Join the next Fintech event in Stellenbosch and register now for Tuesday 20 October - 15.30 - 19.00. Upcoming CFO South Africa Events Join the CFO Events with inspiring hosts and experts who will share their insights and experiences with you. Register now for these events and boost your company, network, career and knowledge. CFO South Africa Events in 2015 July 30 Nedbank Johannesburg | Executing a growth strategy for 2016 Sept 17 Johannesburg | Digital Transformation Oct 15 Johannesburg | Finance Transformation Oct 20 Stellenbosch| Fintech Investment Event Nov 19 Johannesburg | Risk, Compliance & Control Register now for one of the upcoming CFO South Africa Events. Please note that all our CFO South Africa events are for senior financial executives. CFO South Africa offers Platinum memberships to CFOs and finance directors. For more information please have a look here and contact Jurrien Morsch at [email protected] Stay connected with CFO South Africa Follow CFO South Africa on Twitter and LinkedIn Stay up to date on what is happening in the world of finance by following us on Twitter @CFOSouthAfrica and LinkedIn. Next to that you can keep track of newly published interviews with CFOs and CEOs. Feel free to contact us Any suggestions or comments are welcome. Kind Regards, Melle Eijckelhoff Director CFO South Africa | [email protected] To control which emails you receive from CFO South Africa, please change your email preferences at cfo.co.za by selecting under settings "I do not want to receive emails from CFO South Africa | Finance Professionals South Africa"

FinTech Africa event: as it happened (with all the tweets!)

Disruption, the value of failure, attitude, innovation and collaboration were some of the keywords during a riveting FinTech Africa event at GIBS Business School in Johannesburg on Tuesday 28 July 2015. With lifehacker Martijn Aslander as keynote speaker, FinTech guru Nicole Anderson and Wizzit CEO Brian Richardson as presenters and a bunch of the most exciting FinTech experts on a lively panel, the energy in the room was palpable. With well over 100 people from the FinTech ecosystem attending the event, we're already looking forward to putting together the next one.

FinTech innovators and capital need to partner - Charles Savage, GT247.com

In South Africa entrepreneurs tend to be very poor at articulating or selling their ideas to capital, that’s according to Charles Savage, Chief Executive Officer at online trading company GT247.com. “When it comes to valuing an income statement, we can compete with the best in the world, but when it comes to valuing a business plan, not so much, because it requires a greater leap of faith,” says Savage.

Grant Morgan, Dimension Data: making savings in the cloud

"We used to treat our servers like pets, giving them nicknames like Superman... Now we have entire farms of nameless “creatures”. This is automation. Cloud solutions never have IP conflicts or bring down your network and you only pay for what you use,” Grant Morgan, General Manager of Cloud at Dimension Data told the delegates at the inaugural MyBroadband Cloud & Hosting Conference at Gallagher Estate, Midrand, on 9 June. “The motor industry was mechanised to provide quantity and quality at the same time. Machines make fewer mistakes. Today, the same thing is happening in IT."

FinTech - MFS starts intra-African remittances revolution through mobile wallets

“Mobile wallet use is finally getting to scale across Africa," says Dare Okoudjou, Founder and CEO of Mobile Financial Services Africa (MFS Africa). No longer a phenomenon limited to M-Pesa in Kenya, mobile wallets are showing their potential to transform financial services across the continent. "This presents an enormous opportunity to improve the remittance experience for Africans across the continent and for the diaspora abroad.”

`Time for FinTech Africa is now` - Q&A with FinTech guru Nicole Anderson

South Africa should be “leading the charge” in the continent and create an environment that helps innovative FinTech companies flourish and draws investors willing to take risks. Globally, hubs are sprouting up for companies that disrupt the financial sector with technology and Africa is in danger of missing the boat. “The time is now,” says Nicole Anderson, the South African-born and educated CEO and Co-founder at FINTECH Circle Innovate in London.

Newsletter: Meet CFO Awards winner Imraan Soomra Oceana | Is award-winning CFO Anoj Singh Eskom's saviour | Time for FinTech Africa is now | 9 things CFOs should know about tax in francophone Africa

CFO South Africa Newsletter | Thursday 23 July Dear CFO South Africa Member, Read Exclusive CFO South Africa Articles Meet Imraan Soomra (Oceana), winner Transformation & Empowermen... Just a few days after this year's CFO Awards, Oceana Group announced a game-changing R4.6 billion purchase of the American fish-meal and -oil specialist Daybrook Fisheries. In his interview with the panel of judges for the awards, CFO Imraan Soomra had already explained that the traditionally conservative fishing company (already Africa's biggest) was planning to use its debt-less and asset-rich position to become a serious player on the global market. After the acquisition of the Louisiana-based Daybrook, Oceana is now the sixth-biggest fishing company in the world. Is award-winning CFO Anoj Singh Eskom's saviour? Transnet CFO Anoj Singh will join his CEO Brian Molefe at the struggling power utility Eskom on 1 August 2015. The award-winning Finance boss will be responsible for the Finance strategy, including the R250 billion funding plan. Singh has not been known to get nervous by big numbers, as he has been driving an investment program worth R336 billion at Transnet, together with Molefe. "Time for FinTech Africa is now" - Q&A with FinTech guru Nicole... South Africa should be “leading the charge” in the continent and create an environment that helps innovative FinTech companies flourish and draws investors willing to take risks. Globally, hubs are sprouting up for companies that disrupt the financial sector with technology and Africa is in danger of missing the boat. “The time is now,” says Nicole Anderson, the South African-born and educated CEO and Co-founder at FINTECH Circle Innovate in London. Read more exclusive articles on CFO.co.za - Why should a CFO bring a voice recorder to a board meeting? - 9 things CFOs should know about tax in francophone Africa - Amazon’s Michael Needham discusses Cloud trends in Africa Register for the CFO Event "Executing an effective growth strategy for 2016 and beyond” Part 2: Executing an effective growth strategy for 2016 and beyond Thursday 30 July at the Nedbank Head Office, Johannesburg 16.00 - 20.00 Numerous business leaders and finance executives have long recognized the need for CFOs to step out of a numbers-focused role and into a true partnership with the business - by participating in strategic planning, providing essential input on funding, managing growth plans and helping to maximize shareholder returns. But now, a growing chorus is calling for a significant new shift in the finance function toward truly business partnership activity and engagement. In this two part series we bring CFOs insights that will help drive their own perspectives and strategies and share best practice for becoming a genuine business partner. Join the CFO South Africa Event today. Program: 16.00 Opening & Reception By investment mogul and motivational speaker Vusi Thembekwayo. 17.00 Master Class - Executing an effective growth strategy We ask Deon Viljoen, CFO of the Year 2015 and CFO of Alexander Forbes, Anthonie de Beer, Partner of Ethos Private Equity and Natalie Kolbe, Partner South African and West Africa at Actis who have been there and done that, what some of the key challenges are and how they see CFOs delivering effectively. 18.30 CFO Café Interact, learn, connect and discuss the challenges that you are facing with, with your peers over a drink at the CFO Café. Build your network and meet other top CFOs and financials. Register here now. Sponsors CFO South Africa Event: Continuous Professional Development Points Did you know all events of CFO South Africa are eligible for SAICA CPD points? By attending CFO South Africa's events and training courses you will stay compliant. Sign up for the next mind-blowing Fintech Event at GIBS Join the FinTech Africa Event 28 July at the Gordon Institute of Business Science in Illovo, Johannesburg. At this meeting 100 insiders, experts, startups and investors discuss the developments and challenges for FinTech in Africa. Program: 16.00 Welcome and introduction to the African FinTech initiative By Graham Fehrsen, Country Manager CFO South Africa and FinTech Africa 16.05 Big organisations are doomed by Martijn Aslander, international speaker Why small companies are better, smarter and faster and more fun. Why big corporates fear for their future. Why the age of abundance will change everything. 17.00 FinTech Pitches/Insider's view - FinTech Circle Innovate We hear from CEO and co-founder Nicole Anderson on the accelerating global FinTech community, funding trends and some of the most interesting FinTech trends and why the African landscape offers such potential. - Wizzit - bringing banking to the unbanked through cell phone technology We hear from MD Brian Richardson on the challenges and successes of this business. 17.20 Panel discussion "The future of FinTech in Africa" Startup, bankers, investors and industry insiders discuss the challenges & opportunities for FinTech in Africa Panel members include Charles Savage (CEO, Purple Capital Limited), Paul Steenkamp (Head of Innovation Capability, Standard Bank), Colin Vallis (Private equity and investment professional), Dominique Collett-Antolik (Senior Investment Executive, RMI Holdings) and Matthew Birtch (Faculty GIBS - Strategy and finance) This event is organised by FinTech Africa. The ecosystem that connects FinTech startups, investors, corporates and advisors. Join the next Fintech event in Johannesburg and register here now for Tuesday 28 July from 16.00 - 19.00 at the Gordon Institute of Business Science in Sandton. Visit Finance Indaba Africa 2016 Finance Indaba Africa is the biggest annual exhibition and conference for financial managers and specialists in Africa. Over 1000 visitors are coming to Finance Indaba Africa to improve financial performance. Visitors are looking for growth, better and faster insights, more control and higher efficiency. Visitors are looking for ideas, inspiration, vendors and advisers and are planning to invest. Visitors are eager to boost their companies, networks and careers. Where & when? Sandton Convention Centre 13 & 14 October 2016. For more information please visit Finance-Indaba.co.za. Would you like to become an exhibitor or you want to visit the indaba? Please contact Graham Fehrsen at [email protected] or at +27 11 083 7515. Read the first CFO Magazine South Africa Who are South Africa's leading CFOs? How do successful CFOs move into Africa? Why should you transform your finance function and how can you do it? How do you attract and retain talent? Who are the preferred advisors to South African CFOs? Read the latest insights from the CFO Award winning CFOs: Simon Ridley, Standard Bank, Anoj Singh, Transnet, Colin Brown, Super Group and Aarti Takoordeen, JSE and also featured interviews with Sizwe Nxasana, CEO Firstrand, Mike Brown, CEO Nedbank, Brett Goschen, CFO MTN, Brooks Mparutsa, CFO Hollard and Irene Singo, CFO Dep. Mineral Resources. As our online member we would like to give you the opportunity to read the first ever CFO Magazine South Africa online and free of charge HERE. Would you like to advertise in the next issue? Please contact Jurrien Morsch at [email protected] or at +27 11 083 7515. Upcoming CFO South Africa Events Join the CFO Events with inspiring hosts and experts who will share their insights and experiences with you. Register now for these events and boost your company, network, career and knowledge. CFO South Africa Events in 2015 July 28 GIBS Johannesburg | Fintech Africa: Challenges & developments July 30 Nedbank Johannesburg | Executing a growth strategy for 2016 Sept 17 Johannesburg | Digital Transformation Oct 15 Johannesburg | Finance Transformation Nov 19 Johannesburg | Risk, Compliance & Control Register now for one of the upcoming CFO South Africa Events. Please note that all our CFO South Africa events are for senior financial executives. CFO South Africa offers Platinum memberships to CFOs and finance directors. For more information please have a look here and contact Jurrien Morsch at [email protected] Stay connected with CFO South Africa Follow CFO South Africa on Twitter and LinkedIn Stay up to date on what is happening in the world of finance by following us on Twitter @CFOSouthAfrica and LinkedIn. Next to that you can keep track of newly published interviews with CFOs and CEOs. Feel free to contact us Any suggestions or comments are welcome. Kind Regards, Melle Eijckelhoff Director CFO South Africa | [email protected] To control which emails you receive from CFO South Africa, please change your email preferences at cfo.co.za by selecting under settings "I do not want to receive emails from CFO South Africa | Finance Professionals South Africa"

Why should a CFO bring a voice recorder to a board meeting?

CFOs sometimes do outrageous, weird or wrong things. Sometimes they do dubious things, but they have a good reason for it. I am wondering if South African Airways CFO Wolf Meyer's decision to smuggle a recording device into the boardroom qualifies as the latter?

Meet Imraan Soomra (Oceana), winner Transformation & Empowerment Award 2015

Just a few days after this year's CFO Awards, Oceana Group announced a game-changing R4.6 billion purchase of the American fish-meal and -oil specialist Daybrook Fisheries. In his interview with the panel of judges for the awards, CFO Imraan Soomra had already explained that the traditionally conservative fishing company (already Africa's biggest) was planning to use its debt-less and asset-rich position to become a serious player on the global market. After the acquisition of the Louisiana-based Daybrook, Oceana is now the sixth-biggest fishing company in the world.

Amazon's Michael Needham discusses Cloud trends in Africa

“In 1997, Amazon CEO Jeff Bizos said: ‘This is Day One for the Internet. We still have so much to learn.’” Twenty years later, he still talks about the Internet as an uncharted world, with new surprises all the time. But if we accept that it is Day One and around midday in the USA and Europe, in Africa, it is still early in the morning,” Amazon Principal Solutions Architect Michael Needham told the delegates at the inaugural MyBroadband Cloud & Hosting Conference at Gallagher Estate in Midrand on 9 June.

9 things CFOs should know about tax in francophone Africa

In March CFO South Africa's principal sponsor KPMG brought a team of its most eminent tax experts from all corners of Africa to Johannesburg to speak to a gathering of CFOs during the Moving into Africa event in the Michelangelo Hotel in Sandton.

Is award-winning CFO Anoj Singh Eskom's saviour?

Transnet CFO Anoj Singh will join his CEO Brian Molefe at the struggling power utility Eskom on 1 August 2015. The award-winning Finance boss will be responsible for the Finance strategy, including the R250 billion funding plan. Singh has not been known to get nervous by big numbers, as he has been driving an investment program worth R336 billion at Transnet, together with Molefe.

Newsletter: Meet CFO Awards winner Greg Davis Standard Bank | kosi Kumalo, Vodacom: partnerships crucial in the cloud | Register for CFO Event Executing an effective growth strategy

CFO South Africa Newsletter | Thursday 16 July Dear CFO South Africa Member, Read Exclusive CFO South Africa Articles Meet Greg Davis, winner Moving into Africa Award 2015 “It isn't so frightening north of the Limpopo. There are huge opportunities and huge talent," said Greg Davis, CFO Africa for Standard Bank, when he received the Moving into Africa Award at the 2015 CFO Awards. He dedicated the award to his Finance team across the continent and said he hopes that "other companies will join us in venturing into Africa”. Notorious disruptor Martijn Aslander lined up for FinTech Africa event After he shook up a number of CFO events earlier this year, the Dutchman Martijn Aslander was swiftly invited to several South African boardrooms to help the executives brainstorm about doing business in an age of disruption. This month the self-proclaimed 'lifehacker' will be descending on South African shores again as one of the most exciting tickets at the FinTech Africa event, which will be hosted at GIBS Business School on 28 July. Nkosi Kumalo, Vodacom: partnerships crucial in the cloud Our managing director Graham Fehrsen recently met up with Luvuyo Masinda, deputy CFO Corporate and Investment Banking (CIB) at Standard Bank. A meaningful conversation ensued about the power of first impressions and the tremendous value CFO South Africa's events have to offer thanks to its "diversity and calibre of CFOs". Two minutes - that’s all it takes to form an impression. In an age of instant gratification, Google search and LinkedIn you’re likely to have offered someone a first impression without knowing it, whether you’re a professional or an organisation. Read more exclusive articles on CFO.co.za - Safari Distributors chooses SAP business from 4most for greater con... Register for the CFO Event "Executing an effective growth strategy for 2016 and beyond” Part 2: Executing an effective growth strategy for 2016 and beyond Thursday 30 July at the Nedbank Head Office, Johannesburg 16.00 - 20.00 Numerous business leaders and finance executives have long recognized the need for CFOs to step out of a numbers-focused role and into a true partnership with the business - by participating in strategic planning, providing essential input on funding, managing growth plans and helping to maximize shareholder returns. But now, a growing chorus is calling for a significant new shift in the finance function toward truly business partnership activity and engagement. In this two part series we bring CFOs insights that will help drive their own perspectives and strategies and share best practice for becoming a genuine business partner. Join the CFO South Africa Event today. Program: 16.00 Opening & Reception By investment mogul and motivational speaker Vusi Thembekwayo. 17.00 Master Class - Executing an effective growth strategy We ask Deon Viljoen, CFO of the Year 2015 and CFO of Alexander Forbes, Anthonie de Beer, Partner of Ethos Private Equity and Natalie Kolbe, Partner South African and West Africa at Actis who have been there and done that, what some of the key challenges are and how they see CFOs delivering effectively. 18.30 CFO Café Interact, learn, connect and discuss the challenges that you are facing with, with your peers over a drink at the CFO Café. Build your network and meet other top CFOs and financials. Register here now. Sponsors CFO South Africa Event: Continuous Professional Development Points Did you know all events of CFO South Africa are eligible for SAICA CPD points? By attending CFO South Africa's events and training courses you will stay compliant. Sign up for the next mind-blowing Fintech Event at GIBS Join the FinTech Africa Event 28 July at the Gordon Institute of Business Science in Illovo, Johannesburg. At this meeting 100 insiders, experts, startups and investors discuss the developments and challenges for FinTech in Africa. Program: 16.00 Welcome and introduction to the African FinTech initiative By Graham Fehrsen, Country Manager CFO South Africa and FinTech Africa 16.05 Big organisations are doomed by Martijn Aslander, international speaker Why small companies are better, smarter and faster and more fun. Why big corporates fear for their future. Why the age of abundance will change everything. 17.00 FinTech Pitches/Insider's view - FinTech Circle Innovate We hear from CEO and co-founder Nicole Anderson on the accelerating global FinTech community, funding trends and some of the most interesting FinTech trends and why the African landscape offers such potential. - Wizzit - bringing banking to the unbanked through cell phone technology We hear from MD Brian Richardson on the challenges and successes of this business. 17.20 Panel discussion "The future of FinTech in Africa" Startup, bankers, investors and industry insiders discuss the challenges & opportunities for FinTech in Africa Panel members include Charles Savage (CEO, Purple Capital Limited), Paul Steenkamp (Head of Innovation Capability, Standard Bank), Colin Vallis (Private equity and investment professional), Dominique Collett-Antolik (Senior Investment Executive, RMI Holdings) and Matthew Birtch (Faculty GIBS - Strategy and finance) This event is organised by FinTech Africa. The ecosystem that connects FinTech startups, investors, corporates and advisors. Join the next Fintech event in Johannesburg and register here now for Tuesday 28 July from 16.00 - 19.00 at the Gordon Institute of Business Science in Sandton. Visit Finance Indaba Africa 2016 Finance Indaba Africa is the biggest annual exhibition and conference for financial managers and specialists in Africa. Over 1000 visitors are coming to Finance Indaba Africa to improve financial performance. Visitors are looking for growth, better and faster insights, more control and higher efficiency. Visitors are looking for ideas, inspiration, vendors and advisers and are planning to invest. Visitors are eager to boost their companies, networks and careers. Where & when? Sandton Convention Centre 13 & 14 October 2016. For more information please visit Finance-Indaba.co.za. Would you like to become an exhibitor or you want to visit the indaba? Please contact Graham Fehrsen at [email protected] or at +27 11 083 7515. Read the first CFO Magazine South Africa Who are South Africa's leading CFOs? How do successful CFOs move into Africa? Why should you transform your finance function and how can you do it? How do you attract and retain talent? Who are the preferred advisors to South African CFOs? Read the latest insights from the CFO Award winning CFOs: Simon Ridley, Standard Bank, Anoj Singh, Transnet, Colin Brown, Super Group and Aarti Takoordeen, JSE and also featured interviews with Sizwe Nxasana, CEO Firstrand, Mike Brown, CEO Nedbank, Brett Goschen, CFO MTN, Brooks Mparutsa, CFO Hollard and Irene Singo, CFO Dep. Mineral Resources. As our online member we would like to give you the opportunity to read the first ever CFO Magazine South Africa online and free of charge HERE. Would you like to advertise in the next issue? Please contact Jurrien Morsch at [email protected] or at +27 11 083 7515. Upcoming CFO South Africa Events Join the CFO Events with inspiring hosts and experts who will share their insights and experiences with you. Register now for these events and boost your company, network, career and knowledge. CFO South Africa Events in 2015 July 28 GIBS Johannesburg | Fintech Africa: Challenges & developments July 30 Nedbank Johannesburg | Executing a growth strategy for 2016 Sept 17 Johannesburg | Digital Transformation Oct 15 Johannesburg | Finance Transformation Nov 19 Johannesburg | Risk, Compliance & Control Register now for one of the upcoming CFO South Africa Events. Please note that all our CFO South Africa events are for senior financial executives. CFO South Africa offers Platinum memberships to CFOs and finance directors. For more information please have a look here and contact Jurrien Morsch at [email protected] Stay connected with CFO South Africa Follow CFO South Africa on Twitter and LinkedIn Stay up to date on what is happening in the world of finance by following us on Twitter @CFOSouthAfrica and LinkedIn. Next to that you can keep track of newly published interviews with CFOs and CEOs. Feel free to contact us Any suggestions or comments are welcome. Kind Regards, Melle Eijckelhoff Director CFO South Africa | [email protected] To control which emails you receive from CFO South Africa, please change your email preferences at cfo.co.za by selecting under settings "I do not want to receive emails from CFO South Africa | Finance Professionals South Africa"

Notorious disruptor Martijn Aslander lined up for FinTech Africa event

After he shook up a number of CFO events earlier this year, the Dutchman Martijn Aslander was swiftly invited to several South African boardrooms to help the executives brainstorm about doing business in an age of disruption. This month the self-proclaimed 'lifehacker' will be descending on South African shores again as one of the most exciting tickets at the FinTech Africa event, which will be hosted at GIBS Business School on 28 July.

Meet Greg Davis, winner Moving into Africa Award 2015

“It isn't so frightening north of the Limpopo. There are huge opportunities and huge talent," said Greg Davis, CFO Africa for Standard Bank, when he received the Moving into Africa Award at the 2015 CFO Awards. He dedicated the award to his Finance team across the continent and said he hopes that "other companies will join us in venturing into Africa”.

Nkosi Kumalo, Vodacom: partnerships crucial in the cloud

Partnerships are the key to harnessing the power of cloud computing, says Nkosi Kumalo, Executive Head of Vodacom’s Cloud Computing division.

Safari Distributors chooses SAP business from 4most for greater controls and enhanced efficiencies

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Newsletter: Meet CFO Awards winner Cobus Grove Digicore | Shedding light on the power crisis | Luvuyo Masinda Standard Bank - powerful 1st impressions

CFO South Africa Newsletter | Thursday 9 July Dear CFO South Africa Member, Read Exclusive CFO South Africa Articles Meet Cobus Grove (Digicore), winner Governance & Compliance Awa... When Cobus Grove joined Digicore two years ago the company’s share price was a measly 125. After an impressive reorganisation that share price was 325 last December. The success of Grove and temporarily returned founder and CEO Nick Vlok didn’t go unnoticed. Last month, just after Grove was presented the Compliance and Governance Award at this year’s CFO Awards, Nasdaq-listed Novatel Wireless made an offer over R1 billlon on the company – and the share price shot up to 410. Fintech - Wizzit CEO Brian Richardson aims at the 'unbanked' Banking both the world’s unbanked and underbanked population through the use of mobile technology is what Wizzit International hopes to achieve. "Our primary focus is on financial inclusion and empowerment. In the world there are 3 billion people without access to financial services. In Africa there are 700 million people who do not even have a basic bank account,” says Brian Richardson, Wizzit International’s Chief Executive Officer. Meeting Luvuyo Masinda, Standard Bank - powerful 1st impressions Our managing director Graham Fehrsen recently met up with Luvuyo Masinda, deputy CFO Corporate and Investment Banking (CIB) at Standard Bank. A meaningful conversation ensued about the power of first impressions and the tremendous value CFO South Africa's events have to offer thanks to its "diversity and calibre of CFOs". Two minutes - that’s all it takes to form an impression. In an age of instant gratification, Google search and LinkedIn you’re likely to have offered someone a first impression without knowing it, whether you’re a professional or an organisation. Read more exclusive articles on CFO.co.za - Chris Yelland: Shedding light on the power crisis Register for the CFO Event "Executing an effective growth strategy for 2016 and beyond” Part 2: Executing an effective growth strategy for 2016 and beyond Thursday 30 July at the Nedbank Head Office, Johannesburg 16.00 - 20.00 Numerous business leaders and finance executives have long recognized the need for CFOs to step out of a numbers-focused role and into a true partnership with the business - by participating in strategic planning, providing essential input on funding, managing growth plans and helping to maximize shareholder returns. But now, a growing chorus is calling for a significant new shift in the finance function toward truly business partnership activity and engagement. In this two part series we bring CFOs insights that will help drive their own perspectives and strategies and share best practice for becoming a genuine business partner. Join the CFO South Africa Event today. Program: 16.00 Opening & Reception By investment mogul and motivational speaker Vusi Thembekwayo. 17.00 Master Class - Executing an effective growth strategy We ask Deon Viljoen, CFO of the Year 2015 and CFO of Alexander Forbes, Anthonie de Beer, Partner of Ethos Private Equity and industry experts across deal advisory, banking, private equity and law who have been there and done that, what some of the key challenges are and how they see CFOs delivering effectively. 18.30 CFO Café Interact, learn, connect and discuss the challenges that you are facing with, with your peers over a drink at the CFO Café. Build your network and meet other top CFOs and financials. Register here now. Sponsors CFO South Africa Event: Continuous Professional Development Points Did you know all events of CFO South Africa are eligible for SAICA CPD points? By attending CFO South Africa's events and training courses you will stay compliant. Sign up for the next mind-blowing Fintech Event at GIBS Renowned international speaker Martijn Aslander and one of the best motivational speakers alive today, Vusi Thembekwayo, Co-Founder Talent10 Holdings Colin Vallis and CEO GT247.com, Charles Savage will inspire 100 insiders, experts, startups and investors and will discuss the developments and challenges for FinTech in Africa. Why small companies are better, smarter and faster and more fun. Why big corporates fear for their future. Why the age of abundance will change everything. Several FinTech companies present themselves. This event is organised by FinTech Africa. The ecosystem that connects FinTech startups, investors, corporates and advisors. Join the next Fintech event in Johannesburg and register here now for Tuesday 28 July from 16.00 - 19.00 at the Gordon Institute of Business Science in Sandton. Visit Finance Indaba Africa 2016 Finance Indaba Africa is the biggest annual exhibition and conference for financial managers and specialists in Africa. Over 1000 visitors are coming to Finance Indaba Africa to improve financial performance. Visitors are looking for growth, better and faster insights, more control and higher efficiency. Visitors are looking for ideas, inspiration, vendors and advisers and are planning to invest. Visitors are eager to boost their companies, networks and careers. Where & when? Sandton Convention Centre 13 & 14 October 2016. For more information please visit Finance-Indaba.co.za. Would you like to become an exhibitor or you want to visit the indaba? Please contact Graham Fehrsen at [email protected] or at +27 11 083 7515. Read the first CFO Magazine South Africa Who are South Africa's leading CFOs? How do successful CFOs move into Africa? Why should you transform your finance function and how can you do it? How do you attract and retain talent? Who are the preferred advisors to South African CFOs? Read the latest insights from the CFO Award winning CFOs: Simon Ridley, Standard Bank, Anoj Singh, Transnet, Colin Brown, Super Group and Aarti Takoordeen, JSE and also featured interviews with Sizwe Nxasana, CEO Firstrand, Mike Brown, CEO Nedbank, Brett Goschen, CFO MTN, Brooks Mparutsa, CFO Hollard and Irene Singo, CFO Dep. Mineral Resources. As our online member we would like to give you the opportunity to read the first ever CFO Magazine South Africa online and free of charge HERE. Would you like to advertise in the next issue? Please contact Jurrien Morsch at [email protected] or at +27 11 083 7515. Upcoming CFO South Africa Events Join the CFO Events with inspiring hosts and experts who will share their insights and experiences with you. Register now for these events and boost your company, network, career and knowledge. CFO South Africa Events in 2015 July 28 GIBS Johannesburg | Fintech Africa: Challenges & developments July 30 Nedbank Johannesburg | Executing a growth strategy for 2016 Sept 17 Johannesburg | Digital Transformation Oct 15 Johannesburg | Finance Transformation Nov 19 Johannesburg | Risk, Compliance & Control Register now for one of the upcoming CFO South Africa Events. Please note that all our CFO South Africa events are for senior financial executives. CFO South Africa offers Platinum memberships to CFOs and finance directors. For more information please have a look here and contact Jurrien Morsch at [email protected] Stay connected with CFO South Africa Follow CFO South Africa on Twitter and LinkedIn Stay up to date on what is happening in the world of finance by following us on Twitter @CFOSouthAfrica and LinkedIn. Next to that you can keep track of newly published interviews with CFOs and CEOs. Feel free to contact us Any suggestions or comments are welcome. Kind Regards, Melle Eijckelhoff Director CFO South Africa | [email protected] To control which emails you receive from CFO South Africa, please change your email preferences at cfo.co.za by selecting under settings "I do not want to receive emails from CFO South Africa | Finance Professionals South Africa"

Meet Cobus Grove (Digicore), winner Governance & Compliance Award 2015

When Cobus Grove joined Digicore two years ago the company’s share price was a measly 125. After an impressive reorganisation that share price was 325 last December. The success of Grove and temporarily returned founder and CEO Nick Vlok didn’t go unnoticed. Last month, just after Grove was presented the Compliance and Governance Award at this year’s CFO Awards, Nasdaq-listed Novatel Wireless made an offer over R1 billlon on the company – and the share price shot up to 410.

Fintech - Wizzit CEO Brian Richardson aims at the 'unbanked'

Banking both the world’s unbanked and underbanked population through the use of mobile technology is what Wizzit International hopes to achieve. "Our primary focus is on financial inclusion and empowerment. In the world there are 3 billion people without access to financial services. In Africa there are 700 million people who do not even have a basic bank account,” says Brian Richardson, Wizzit International’s Chief Executive Officer.

Chris Yelland: Shedding light on the power crisis

South African energy expert Chris Yelland warned corporates and consumers alike to expect load-shedding and power issues to continue over the medium term and insisted that generation capacity alone was not to blame in a though-provoking keynote address at the inaugural MyBroadband Cloud and Hosting Conference at Gallagher Estate, Midrand, on 9 June.

Meeting Luvuyo Masinda, Standard Bank - powerful 1st impressions

Our managing director Graham Fehrsen recently met up with Luvuyo Masinda, deputy CFO Corporate and Investment Banking (CIB) at Standard Bank. A meaningful conversation ensued about the power of first impressions and the tremendous value CFO South Africa's events have to offer thanks to its "diversity and calibre of CFOs".

Newsletter: Standard Bank CFO Simon Ridley blown away by CFO Awards | Kevin Attard MD Oracle: talk about digital transformation not about cloud | Pillars of the CFO as Business Partner

CFO South Africa Newsletter | Thursday 2 July Dear CFO South Africa Member, Read Exclusive CFO South Africa Articles Standard Bank CFO Simon Ridley "blown away" by CFO Awards During his short keynote speech at the CFO Awards 2015, last year's CFO of the Year Simon Ridley (Standard Bank) didn't only give a glowing endorsement to CFO South Africa, but also listed the key aspects of a good CFO. Due to popular demand, we'll be introducing video clips of Simon's speech today - and other highlights of the awards ceremony at the magnificent Summer Place will follow. Kevin Attard, Oracle: talk about digital transformation, not about ... “CFOs are expanding across the whole business,” according to Kevin Attard, Country Leader South Africa for multinational computer technology corporation Oracle. After an impressive career in his home country Malta, Austria and the United Kingdom, Attard has recently arrived in South Africa and the energy he has brought to the Oracle office in Woodmead is palpable. Our CEO Melle Eijckelhoff and I spoke to Attard last week. CFO event: the pillars of the CFO as Business Partner CFO Deon Viljoen of Alexander Forbes summarised Thursday’s CFO event at KPMG’s Wanooka Place as “really stimulating and brilliant discussion”, a telling qualification by the man who was elected CFO of the Year just last month. Participants eventually went home with many insights to mull over after an afternoon that didn’t only see a star-studded line up, but also provided a platform for deep meaningful conversations about the way CFOs can influence and drive growth as business partners. Read more exclusive articles on CFO.co.za - 2 questions for FinTech companies, a chat to RMI's Dominique Collett Register for the CFO Event "Executing an effective growth strategy for 2016 and beyond” Part 2: Executing an effective growth strategy for 2016 and beyond Thursday 30 July at the Nedbank Head Office, Johannesburg 16.00 - 20.00 Numerous business leaders and finance executives have long recognized the need for CFOs to step out of a numbers-focused role and into a true partnership with the business - by participating in strategic planning, providing essential input on funding, managing growth plans and helping to maximize shareholder returns. But now, a growing chorus is calling for a significant new shift in the finance function toward truly business partnership activity and engagement. In this two part series we bring CFOs insights that will help drive their own perspectives and strategies and share best practice for becoming a genuine business partner. Join the CFO South Africa Event today. Program: 16.00 Opening & Reception By investment mogul and motivational speaker Vusi Thembekwayo. 17.00 Master Class - Executing an effective growth strategy We ask Deon Viljoen, CFO of the Year 2015 and CFO of Alexander Forbes and industry experts across deal advisory, banking, private equity and law who have been there and done that, what some of the key challenges are and how they see CFOs delivering effectively. 18.30 CFO Café Build a network of peers facing your challenges at discussion sessions, over meals or a drink. Take your new contacts back to the office and network. They need you too! Interact, learn and connect with your peers during the CFO Café and discuss the latest insights on current issues and topics. During the CFO Café you can meet top CFOs and financials while enjoying free snacks and drinks. Don’t miss this opportunity to join us. Register here now. Sponsors CFO South Africa Event: Continuous Professional Development Points Did you know all events of CFO South Africa are eligible for SAICA CPD points? By attending CFO South Africa's events and training courses you will stay compliant. Sign up for the next mind-blowing Fintech Event at GIBS Renowned international speaker Martijn Aslander and one of the best motivational speakers alive today, Vusi Thembekwayo, Co-Founder Talent10 Holdings Colin Vallis and CEO GT247.com, Charles Savage will inspire 100 insiders, experts, startups and investors and will discuss the developments and challenges for FinTech in Africa. Why small companies are better, smarter and faster and more fun. Why big corporates fear for their future. Why the age of abundance will change everything. Several FinTech companies present themselves. This event is organised by FinTech Africa. The ecosystem that connects FinTech startups, investors, corporates and advisors. Join the next Fintech event in Johannesburg and register here now for Tuesday 28 July from 16.00 - 19.00 at the Gordon Institute of Business Science in Sandton. Read the first CFO Magazine South Africa Who are South Africa's leading CFOs? How do successful CFOs move into Africa? Why should you transform your finance function and how can you do it? How do you attract and retain talent? Who are the preferred advisors to South African CFOs? Read the latest insights from the CFO Award winning CFOs: Simon Ridley, Standard Bank, Anoj Singh, Transnet, Colin Brown, Super Group and Aarti Takoordeen, JSE and also featured interviews with Sizwe Nxasana, CEO Firstrand, Mike Brown, CEO Nedbank, Brett Goschen, CFO MTN, Brooks Mparutsa, CFO Hollard and Irene Singo, CFO Dep. Mineral Resources. As our online member we would like to give you the opportunity to read the first ever CFO Magazine South Africa online and free of charge HERE. Would you like to advertise in the next issue? Please contact Jurrien Morsch at [email protected] or at +27 11 083 7515. Upcoming CFO South Africa Events Join the CFO Events with inspiring hosts and experts who will share their insights and experiences with you. Register now for these events and boost your company, network, career and knowledge. CFO South Africa Events in 2015 July 28 GIBS Johannesburg | Fintech Africa: Challenges and developments July 30 Nedbank Johannesburg | Executing a growth strategy for 2016 Sept 17 Johannesburg | Digital Transformation Oct 15 Johannesburg | Finance Transformation Nov 19 Johannesburg | Risk, Compliance & Control Register now for one of the upcoming CFO South Africa Events. Please note that all our CFO South Africa events are for senior financial executives. CFO South Africa offers Platinum memberships to CFOs and finance directors. For more information please have a look here and contact Jurrien Morsch at [email protected] Stay connected with CFO South Africa Follow CFO South Africa on Twitter and LinkedIn Stay up to date on what is happening in the world of finance by following us on Twitter @CFOSouthAfrica and LinkedIn. Next to that you can keep track of newly published interviews with CFOs and CEOs. Feel free to contact us Any suggestions or comments are welcome. Kind Regards, Melle Eijckelhoff Director CFO South Africa | [email protected] To control which emails you receive from CFO South Africa, please change your email preferences at cfo.co.za by selecting under settings "I do not want to receive emails from CFO South Africa | Finance Professionals South Africa"

#WATCH Standard Bank CFO Simon Ridley `blown away` by CFO Awards

During his short keynote speech at the CFO Awards 2015, last year's CFO of the Year Simon Ridley (Standard Bank) didn't only give a glowing endorsement to CFO South Africa, but also listed the key aspects of a good CFO. Due to popular demand, we'll be introducing video clips of Simon's speech today - and other highlights of the awards ceremony at the magnificent Summer Place will follow.

2 questions for FinTech companies, a chat to RMI's Dominique Collett

"When FinTech companies come in to see us, we typically ask two basic questions. Firstly do they have a unique product offering, secondly do they have the ability to execute on the strategy.” That’s how Dominique Collett, Rand Merchant Insurance’s senior executive decides on whether or not there’s a possibility to fund a company.

Kevin Attard, Oracle: talk about digital transformation, not about cloud

“CFOs are expanding across the whole business,” according to Kevin Attard, Country Leader South Africa for multinational computer technology corporation Oracle. After an impressive career in his home country Malta, Austria and the United Kingdom, Attard has recently arrived in South Africa and the energy he has brought to the Oracle office in Woodmead is palpable. Our CEO Melle Eijckelhoff and I spoke to Attard last week.

CFO event: the pillars of the CFO as Business Partner

CFO Deon Viljoen of Alexander Forbes summarised Thursday’s CFO event at KPMG’s Wanooka Place as “really stimulating and brilliant discussion”, a telling qualification by the man who was elected CFO of the Year just last month. Participants eventually went home with many insights to mull over after an afternoon that didn’t only see a star-studded line up, but also provided a platform for deep meaningful conversations about the way CFOs can influence and drive growth as business partners.

Newsletter: Aarti Takoordeen, CFO JSE: Role of the CFO in Africa | Vusi Thembekwayo hosting CFO event today | GIBS host FinTech event 28 July

CFO South Africa Newsletter | Thursday 25 June Dear CFO South Africa Member, Read Exclusive CFO South Africa Articles Aarti Takoordeen, CFO JSE: Role of the CFO in Africa The role of Chief Financial Officer has never been more complex than it is today. This is due to the fact that the CFO’s operating environment is typified by managing stringent regulation, and managing increasing shareholder scrutiny and economic uncertainty. By Aarti Takoordeen, CFO at the JSE Limited Vusi Thembekwayo hosting today's CFO event Investment mogul and motivational speaker Vusi Thembekwayo will be hosting our CFO as Business Partner event tomorrow at KPMG Wanooka Place in Johannesburg. As MC Vusi made an enormous success of last month's CFO Awards. “Top class!” “Very engaging, knowledgeable and entertaining.” “Very innovative.” Those were just some of the compliments he received from the CFOs that attended that event. GIBS Business School to host FinTech event 28 July The second FinTech Africa event will be hosted by the Gordon Institute of Business Science (GIBS) in Illovo on 28 July 2015. During the event 100 insiders, experts, startups and investors will discuss the developments and challenges for FinTech in Africa, with a particular focus on South Africa. The Dutch life hacker Martijn Aslander will be one of the exciting speakers, GIBS experts will give insight into recent trends and hot and happening companies will present themselves. Read more exclusive articles on the CFO Awards 2015 - FinTech - Nomanini CEO Vahid Monadjem chats about its prepaid vendi... Last chance to join the CFO Event "The CFO as business partner” Part 1: Influencing and driving a growth strategy - the CFO as a genuine business partner Thursday 25 June at KPMG Wanooka, Johannesburg 16.00 - 20.00 Numerous business leaders and finance executives have long recognized the need for CFOs to step out of a numbers-focused role and into a true partnership with the business - by participating in strategic planning, providing essential input on funding, managing growth plans and helping to maximize shareholder returns. But now, a growing chorus is calling for a significant new shift in the finance function toward truly business partnership activity and engagement. In this two part series we bring CFOs insights that will help drive their own perspectives and strategies and share best practice for becoming a genuine business partner. Join the CFO South Africa Event today. Program: 16.00 Opening & Reception By Vusi Thembekwayo. 17.00 Master Class Corporate Finance Hear leading CEOs discuss their perspective on strategy formulation and the undeniably important role of a CFO. During this masterclass we will also ask CEOs to talk about the future of the CFO role and how they believe it will evolve. Panel discussion and presentations from: - Bongani Nqwababa, CFO at Sasol - Mark Wainer, Executive Chairman at Redefine Properties - Nicky Newton-King, CEO at JSE 18.30 CFO Café This unique reception offers you the chance to meet your peers and discuss the latest insights on current issues and topics. During the CFO Café you can meet top CFOs and financials while enjoying free snacks and drinks. Don’t miss this opportunity to join us. Also join Part 2: Executing an effective growth strategy for 2016 Thursday 30 July at Nedbank Johannesburg, 16.00 - 20.00 We ask industry experts across deal advisory, banking, private equity, law and, of course, CFOs who have been there and done that, what some of the key challenges are and how they see CFOs delivering effectively. Register here now. Principal Sponsor CFO South Africa: Continuous Professional Development Points Did you know all events of CFO South Africa are eligible for SAICA CPD points? By attending CFO South Africa's events and training courses you will stay compliant. Sign up for the next mind-blowing Fintech Event at GIBS Renowned international speaker Martijn Aslander and one of the best motivational speakers alive today, Vusi Thembekwayo will inspire 100 insiders, experts, startups and investors and will discuss the developments and challenges for FinTech in Africa. Several FinTech companies present themselves. This event is organised by FinTech Africa. The ecosystem that connects FinTech startups, investors, corporates and advisors. Join the next Fintech event in Johannesburg and register here now for Tuesday 28 July from 16.00 - 19.00 in Sandton. Read the first CFO Magazine South Africa Who are South Africa's leading CFOs? How do successful CFOs move into Africa? Why should you transform your finance function and how can you do it? How do you attract and retain talent? Who are the preferred advisors to South African CFOs? Read the latest insights from the CFO Award winning CFOs: Simon Ridley, Standard Bank, Anoj Singh, Transnet, Colin Brown, Super Group and Aarti Takoordeen, JSE and also featured interviews with Sizwe Nxasana, CEO Firstrand, Mike Brown, CEO Nedbank, Brett Goschen, CFO MTN, Brooks Mparutsa, CFO Hollard and Irene Singo, CFO Dep. Mineral Resources. As our online member we would like to give you the opportunity to read the first ever CFO Magazine South Africa online and free of charge HERE. Would you like to advertise in the next issue? Please contact Jurrien Morsch at [email protected] or at +27 11 083 7515. Upcoming CFO South Africa Events Join the CFO Events with inspiring hosts and experts who will share their insights and experiences with you. Register now for these events and boost your company, network, career and knowledge. CFO South Africa Events in 2015 July 28 GIBS Johannesburg | Fintech Africa: Challenges and developments July 30 Nedbank Johannesburg | Executing a growth strategy for 2016 Sept 17 Johannesburg | Digital Transformation Oct 15 Johannesburg | Finance Transformation Nov 19 Johannesburg | Risk, Compliance & Control Register now for one of the upcoming CFO South Africa Events. Please note that all our CFO South Africa events are for senior financial executives. CFO South Africa offers Platinum memberships to CFOs and finance directors. For more information please have a look here and contact Jurrien Morsch at [email protected] Stay connected with CFO South Africa Follow CFO South Africa on Twitter and LinkedIn Stay up to date on what is happening in the world of finance by following us on Twitter @CFOSouthAfrica and LinkedIn. Next to that you can keep track of newly published interviews with CFOs and CEOs. Feel free to contact us Any suggestions or comments are welcome. Kind Regards, Melle Eijckelhoff Director CFO South Africa | [email protected] To control which emails you receive from CFO South Africa, please change your email preferences at cfo.co.za by selecting under settings "I do not want to receive emails from CFO South Africa | Finance Professionals South Africa"

FinTech - CFO Ari Fonarov: see your money differently with 22Seven

22seven is one of SA’s most innovative FinTech companies, which through its web-based app promises to help customers automatically create a budget. When you link all your store, cheque and credit cards to the platform it will enable you to see all your financial transactions in one place. “22seven automatically gathers all your transactions, then sorts them into categories for you so you can see how much you spend on what,” says 22seven Chief Financial Officer Ari Fonarov.

Vusi Thembekwayo hosting Thursday's CFO event

Investment mogul and motivational speaker Vusi Thembekwayo will be hosting our CFO as Business Partner event tomorrow at KPMG Wanooka Place in Johannesburg. As MC Vusi made an enormous success of last month's CFO Awards. “Top class!” “Very engaging, knowledgeable and entertaining.” “Very innovative.” Those were just some of the compliments he received from the CFOs that attended that event.

GIBS Business School to host FinTech event 28 July

The second FinTech Africa event will be hosted by the Gordon Institute of Business Science (GIBS) in Illovo on 28 July 2015. During the event 100 insiders, experts, startups and investors will discuss the developments and challenges for FinTech in Africa, with a particular focus on South Africa. The Dutch life hacker Martijn Aslander will be one of the exciting speakers, GIBS experts will give insight into recent trends and hot and happening companies will present themselves.

FinTech - Nomanini CEO Vahid Monadjem chats about its prepaid vending machine

Financial technology companies are all about disruption, but it’s very rare to find a company that can make a payment solution specifically targeted for the informal market. Nomanini is a small FinTech company whose product is specifically designed for “the rigours of the informal market, where electricity is not always available” says Chief Executive Officer Vahid Monadjem.

Aarti Takoordeen, CFO JSE: Role of the CFO in Africa

The role of Chief Financial Officer has never been more complex than it is today. This is due to the fact that the CFO’s operating environment is typified by managing stringent regulation, and managing increasing shareholder scrutiny and economic uncertainty.

Event alert: learn from Sasol's CFO and the JSE's CEO

Sasol's new CFO Bongani Nqwababa and CEO Nicky Newton-King of the JSE Limited are the biggest draw cards at CFO South Africa's event on Thursday 25 June 2015. Together with Mark Wainer, Executive Chairman at Redefine Properties, they will be sharing their thoughts on 'The CFO as Business Partner' at KPMG Wanooka Place in Johannesburg.

Seacom's Suveer Ramdhani: why SA's internet is not as fast as it could be

Newsletter: Allianz and CFO South Africa discover mutual passion | Free trade revolution | celebrating Youth Day the CFO way | The CFO as Business Partner

CFO South Africa Newsletter | Thursday 18 June Dear CFO South Africa Member, Read Exclusive CFO South Africa Articles Allianz (AGCS) and CFO South Africa discover mutual passion Last week CFO South Africa manager Graham Fehrsen met with Delphine Maïdou, CEO Allianz Global Corporate & Specialty Africa. Delphine is a great supporter of CFO South Africa and we ran two great interviews with her in the past about South Africa as springboard for Allianz (2013) and the need for CFOs to think about succession planning (2014). Graham and Delphine spoke mostly about knowledge sharing - here is his report. Free trade revolution, an Expert Insight by Venter Labuschagne The establishment of a free trade area in 26 African countries is going to be a revolutionary development for the continent. In this article Venter Labuschagne, Head: Trade & Customs at KPMG, outlines the opportunities and challenges the creation of the Tripartite Free Trade Area (TFTA) provide. By Venter Labuschagne, Head: Trade & Customs at KPMG Africa Editorial: celebrating Youth Day the CFO way Youth Day was a massive moment to reflect, not only for the country, but also for CFOs. First of all, the day remains a reminder where we come from - and how far South Africa still has to go. The Soweto Uprising against Afrikaans as school language - and by extension against the apartheid regime - started on 16 June 1976 and its violent repression took the life of about 176 South Africans. Not something we should forget. Read more exclusive articles on the CFO Awards 2015 - Accenture CFO Dinner: CFOs test their thinking and share insights Join the CFO Event "The CFO as business partner” Part 1: Influencing and driving a growth strategy - the CFO as a genuine business partner Thursday 25 June at KPMG Wanooka, Johannesburg 16.00 - 20.00 Numerous business leaders and finance executives have long recognized the need for CFOs to step out of a numbers-focused role and into a true partnership with the business - by participating in strategic planning, providing essential input on funding, managing growth plans and helping to maximize shareholder returns. But now, a growing chorus is calling for a significant new shift in the finance function toward truly business partnership activity and engagement. In this two part series we bring CFOs insights that will help drive their own perspectives and strategies and share best practice for becoming a genuine business partner. Join the CFO South Africa Event today. Program: 16.00 Opening & Reception 17.00 Master Class Corporate Finance Hear leading CEOs discuss their perspective on strategy formulation and the undeniably important role of a CFO. During this masterclass we will also ask CEOs to talk about the future of the CFO role and how they believe it will evolve. Panel discussion and presentations from: - Bongani Nqwababa, CFO at Sasol - Mark Wainer, Executive Chairman at Redefine Properties - Nicky Newton-King, CEO at JSE 18.30 CFO Café This unique reception offers you the chance to meet your peers and discuss the latest insights on current issues and topics. During the CFO Café you can meet top CFOs and financials while enjoying free snacks and drinks. Don’t miss this opportunity to join us. Also join Part 2: Executing an effective growth strategy for 2016 Thursday 30 July at Nedbank Johannesburg, 16.00 - 20.00 We ask industry experts across deal advisory, banking, private equity, law and, of course, CFOs who have been there and done that, what some of the key challenges are and how they see CFOs delivering effectively. Register here now. Principal Sponsor CFO South Africa: Continuous Professional Development Points Did you know all events of CFO South Africa are eligible for SAICA CPD points? By attending CFO South Africa's events and training courses you will stay compliant. Sign up for the next mind-blowing Fintech Event at GIBS 100 insiders, experts, startups and investors will discuss the developments and challenges for FinTech in Africa. Several FinTech companies present themselves. This event is organised by FinTech Africa. The ecosystem that connects FinTech startups, investors, corporates and advisors. Join the next Fintech event in Johannesburg and register here now for Tuesday 28 July from 16.00 - 19.00 in Sandton. Read the first CFO Magazine South Africa Who are South Africa's leading CFOs? How do successful CFOs move into Africa? Why should you transform your finance function and how can you do it? How do you attract and retain talent? Who are the preferred advisors to South African CFOs? Read the latest insights from the CFO Award winning CFOs: Simon Ridley, Standard Bank, Anoj Singh, Transnet, Colin Brown, Super Group and Aarti Takoordeen, JSE and also featured interviews with Sizwe Nxasana, CEO Firstrand, Mike Brown, CEO Nedbank, Brett Goschen, CFO MTN, Brooks Mparutsa, CFO Hollard and Irene Singo, CFO Dep. Mineral Resources. As our online member we would like to give you the opportunity to read the first ever CFO Magazine South Africa online and free of charge HERE. Would you like to advertise in the next issue? Please contact Jurrien Morsch at [email protected] or at +27 11 083 7515. Upcoming CFO South Africa Events Join the CFO Events with inspiring hosts and experts who will share their insights and experiences with you. Register now for these events and boost your company, network, career and knowledge. CFO South Africa Events in 2015 June 25 KPMG Johannesburg | Influencing and driving a growth strategy July 28 GIBS Johannesburg | Fintech Africa: Challenges and developments July 30 Nedbank Johannesburg | Executing a growth strategy for 2016 Sept 17 Johannesburg | Digital Transformation Oct 15 Johannesburg | Finance Transformation Nov 19 Johannesburg | Risk, Compliance & Control Register now for one of the upcoming CFO South Africa Events. Please note that all our CFO South Africa events are for senior financial executives. CFO South Africa offers Platinum memberships to CFOs and finance directors. For more information please have a look here and contact Jurrien Morsch at [email protected] Stay connected with CFO South Africa Follow CFO South Africa on Twitter and LinkedIn Stay up to date on what is happening in the world of finance by following us on Twitter @CFOSouthAfrica and LinkedIn. Next to that you can keep track of newly published interviews with CFOs and CEOs. Feel free to contact us Any suggestions or comments are welcome. Kind Regards, Melle Eijckelhoff Director CFO South Africa | [email protected] To control which emails you receive from CFO South Africa, please change your email preferences at cfo.co.za by selecting under settings "I do not want to receive emails from CFO South Africa | Finance Professionals South Africa"

Editorial: celebrating Youth Day the CFO way

Yesterday's Youth Day was a massive moment to reflect, not only for the country, but also for CFOs. First of all, the day remains a reminder where we come from - and how far South Africa still has to go. The Soweto Uprising against Afrikaans as school language - and by extension against the apartheid regime - started on 16 June 1976 and its violent repression took the life of about 176 South Africans. Not something we should forget.

Accenture CFO Dinner: CFOs test their thinking and share insights

Last Thursday a selected group of South African CFOs had the privilege of having dinner with David Axson, Accenture's global top expert for everything CFO. CFO South Africa's manager Graham Fehrsen moderated the exclusive evening discussion at the beautiful Saxon Boutique Hotel in Johannesburg. Earlier we published an 'official article' on the event. Here is Graham's impression of the evening.

Free trade revolution, an Expert Insight by Venter Labuschagne

The establishment of a free trade area in 26 African countries is going to be a revolutionary development for the continent. In this article Venter Labuschagne, Head: Trade & Customs at KPMG, outlines the opportunities and challenges the creation of the Tripartite Free Trade Area (TFTA) provide. By Venter Labuschagne, Head: Trade & Customs at KPMG Africa

Dining with Accenture's global CFO expert David Axson

An impressive selection of South African CFOs came together in the evening of Thursday 11 June 2015 to discuss volatility, uncertainty, complexity and ambiguity (VUCA) with David Axson, the global CFO Strategies expert of management consulting firm Accenture. During a copious dinner at the Saxon Boutique Hotel in Johannesburg, Axson shared his vision, insight and inspiration with finance leaders of companies like Allianz, Standard Bank, Business Connexion, Neotel, Primedia, Barclays Africa and Nedbank.

Allianz (AGCS) and CFO South Africa discover mutual passion

Last week CFO South Africa manager Graham Fehrsen met with Delphine Maïdou, CEO Allianz Global Corporate & Specialty Africa. Delphine is a great supporter of CFO South Africa and we ran two great interviews with her in the past about South Africa as springboard for Allianz (2013) and the need for CFOs to think about succession planning (2014). Graham and Delphine spoke mostly about knowledge sharing - here is his report.

Newsletter: Meet CFO Award winner Bongani Nqwababa CFO Sasol | CFO as business partner with JSE - Redefine - Sasol | Risk in Africa by Dianne Games | Meet Africa's most innovative Fintech companies

CFO South Africa Newsletter | Thursday 11 June Dear CFO South Africa Member, Read Exclusive CFO South Africa Articles Meet Bongani Nqwababa (Sasol), winner Finance Transformation Award ... After Sasol CFO Bongani Nqwababa had given an impressive and well-received talk about his tenure at Anglo American Platinum during the Stategy Execution round table discussion at the 2015 CFO Awards, he told me he doesn't like to speak off-the-cuff. "As an accountant I am rather big on structure and order," he had already explained during the interview with the panel of awards judges. "When you talk, you can’t do that in free-flow without using key messages and without knowing what you want from a meeting. Jan Hnizdo, CFO Teraco: Outsource your data centre Why trust service providers with your sensitive data? During the kick off of the MyBroadband Cloud & Hosting Conference at Gallagher Estate on 9 June 2015 this question was tackled head on by Jan Hnizdo, Chief Financial Officer of Teraco Data Environments, the first provider of resilient, vendor-neutral data environments in South Africa. Risk in Africa - an Expert Insight by Dianna Games African stalwart and Shoprite chief executive Whitey Basson is well known for looking on the bright side of risk in African markets. The tougher the country, the less competition there is likely to be, he maintains. He has benefited not just from early mover advantage in Africa, where the company is the market leader by far, but by leaving nothing to chance. Read more exclusive articles on the CFO Awards 2015 - Technology’s impact on South Africa’s supply services industry - FinTech - Mobile money transforms access to financial services Join the CFO Event "The CFO as a genuine business partner” Part 1: Influencing and driving a growth strategy - the CFO as a genuine business partner Thursday 25 June at KPMG Wanooka, Johannesburg 16.00 - 20.00 Numerous business leaders and finance executives have long recognized the need for CFOs to step out of a numbers-focused role and into a true partnership with the business - by participating in strategic planning, providing essential input on funding, managing growth plans and helping to maximize shareholder returns. But now, a growing chorus is calling for a significant new shift in the finance function toward truly business partnership activity and engagement. In this two part series we bring CFOs insights that will help drive their own perspectives and strategies and share best practice for becoming a genuine business partner. Join the CFO South Africa Event today. Program: 16.00 Opening & Reception 17.00 Master Class Corporate Finance Hear leading CEOs discuss their perspective on strategy formulation and the undeniably important role of a CFO. During this masterclass we will also ask CEOs to talk about the future of the CFO role and how they believe it will evolve. Panel discussion and presentations from: - Bongani Nqwababa, CFO at Sasol - Mark Wainer, Executive Chairman at Redefine Properties - Nicky Newton-King, CEO at JSE 18.30 CFO Café This unique reception offers you the chance to meet your peers and discuss the latest insights on current issues and topics. During the CFO Café you can meet top CFOs and financials while enjoying free snacks and drinks. Don’t miss this opportunity to join us. Also join Part 2: Executing an effective growth strategy for 2016 Thursday 30 July at Nedbank Johannesburg, 16.00 - 20.00 We ask industry experts across deal advisory, banking, private equity, law and, of course, CFOs who have been there and done that, what some of the key challenges are and how they see CFOs delivering effectively. Register here now. Principal Sponsor CFO South Africa: Continuous Professional Development Points Did you know all events of CFO South Africa are eligible for SAICA CPD points? By attending CFO South Africa's events and training courses you will stay compliant. Sign up for the next mind-blowing Fintech Event at GIBS 100 insiders, experts, startups and investors will discuss the developments and challenges for FinTech in Africa. Several FinTech companies present themselves. This event is organised by FinTech Africa. The ecosystem that connects FinTech startups, investors, corporates and advisors. Join the next Fintech event in Johannesburg and register here now for Tuesday 28 July from 16.00 - 19.00 in Sandton. Read the first CFO Magazine South Africa Who are South Africa's leading CFOs? How do successful CFOs move into Africa? Why should you transform your finance function and how can you do it? How do you attract and retain talent? Who are the preferred advisors to South African CFOs? Read the latest insights from the CFO Award winning CFOs: Simon Ridley, Standard Bank, Anoj Singh, Transnet, Colin Brown, Super Group and Aarti Takoordeen, JSE and also featured interviews with Sizwe Nxasana, CEO Firstrand, Mike Brown, CEO Nedbank, Brett Goschen, CFO MTN, Brooks Mparutsa, CFO Hollard and Irene Singo, CFO Dep. Mineral Resources. As our online member we would like to give you the opportunity to read the first ever CFO Magazine South Africa online and free of charge HERE. Would you like to advertise in the next issue? Please contact Jurrien Morsch at [email protected] or at +27 11 083 7515. Visit Finance Indaba Africa 2016 Finance Indaba Africa is the biggest annual exhibition and conference for financial managers and specialists in Africa. Over 1000 visitors are coming to Finance Indaba Africa to improve financial performance. Visitors are looking for growth, better and faster insights, more control and higher efficiency. Visitors are looking for ideas, inspiration, vendors and advisers and are planning to invest. Visitors are eager to boost their companies, networks and careers. Where & when? Sandton Convention Centre 13 & 14 October 2016. For more information please visit Finance-Indaba.co.za. Would you like to become an exhibitor or you want to visit the indaba? Please contact Graham Fehrsen at [email protected] or at +27 11 083 7515. Upcoming CFO South Africa Events Join the CFO Events with inspiring hosts and experts who will share their insights and experiences with you. Register now for these events and boost your company, network, career and knowledge. CFO South Africa Events in 2015 June 25 KPMG Johannesburg | Influencing and driving a growth strategy July 28 GIBS Johannesburg | Fintech Africa: Challenges and developments July 30 Nedbank Johannesburg | Executing a growth strategy for 2016 Sept 17 Johannesburg | Digital Transformation Nov 19 Johannesburg | Risk, Compliance & Control Register now for one of the upcoming CFO South Africa Events. Please note that all our CFO South Africa events are for senior financial executives. CFO South Africa offers Platinum memberships to CFOs and finance directors. For more information please have a look here and contact Jurrien Morsch at [email protected] Stay connected with CFO South Africa Follow CFO South Africa on Twitter and LinkedIn Stay up to date on what is happening in the world of finance by following us on Twitter @CFOSouthAfrica and LinkedIn. Next to that you can keep track of newly published interviews with CFOs and CEOs. Feel free to contact us Any suggestions or comments are welcome. Kind Regards, Melle Eijckelhoff Director CFO South Africa | [email protected] To control which emails you receive from CFO South Africa, please change your email preferences at cfo.co.za by selecting under settings "I do not want to receive emails from CFO South Africa | Finance Professionals South Africa"

Jan Hnizdo, CFO Teraco: Outsource your data centre

Why trust service providers with your sensitive data? During the kick off of the MyBroadband Cloud & Hosting Conference at Gallagher Estate on 9 June 2015 this question was tackled head on by Jan Hnizdo, Chief Financial Officer of Teraco Data Environments, the first provider of resilient, vendor-neutral data environments in South Africa. Among other advantages, Hnizdo argued, externally managed data centres offer:

FinTech - Mobile money transforms access to financial services

A dominant theme in FinTech, particularly in Africa, is the convergence of financial services and telecommunications. In the last month, FNB became the first South African bank to launch its own mobile services that integrate with its banking systems, while both Moody's Investors Service, mobile operators body GSMA and communications technology provider Ericsson presented insightful reports on banking and mobile applications.

Meet Bongani Nqwababa (Sasol), winner Finance Transformation Award 2015

After Sasol CFO Bongani Nqwababa had given an impressive and well-received talk about his tenure at Anglo American Platinum during the Stategy Execution round table discussion at the 2015 CFO Awards, he told me he doesn't like to speak off-the-cuff. "As an accountant I am rather big on structure and order," he had already explained during the interview with the panel of awards judges. "When you talk, you can’t do that in free-flow without using key messages and without knowing what you want from a meeting."

Risk in Africa - an Expert Insight by Dianna Games

African stalwart and Shoprite chief executive Whitey Basson is well known for looking on the bright side of risk in African markets. The tougher the country, the less competition there is likely to be, he maintains. He has benefited not just from early mover advantage in Africa, where the company is the market leader by far, but by leaving nothing to chance.

Technology's impact on South Africa's supply services industry

Advertorial Delivering exceptional client value imperative to business survival

Newsletter: Meet double CFO Award winner Brett Tromp | Public sector CFO events to the next level | 7 things CFOs should know about tax in East Africa | The CFO as genuine business partner

CFO South Africa Newsletter | Thursday 4 June Dear CFO South Africa Member, Read Exclusive CFO South Africa Articles Meet Brett Tromp (Discovery Health), double CFO Award winner 2015 Can someone who introduces a whole new way of reporting - the fourth bottom line - be a CFO? Can somebody who is at the forefront of innovation in the pharmacy industry be a CFO? Can someone with a happy and popular team be a CFO? Or someone who coaches many colleagues and authors articles for magazines for fun? And what about someone who says his church pastor is his example in life or someone who never misses any of his kid's cricket matches? Can he be a CFO? Announcement: public sector CFO events to the next level Due to the huge success of our public sector chapter, CFO South Africa is proud to announce that we have scheduled no less than 9 events in 2015 and 2016 where finance leaders from departments, provinces and other government agencies can compare notes, learn from each other, network and have fun. The public sector initiative launched on 13 November 2014 and has been of great value to the participants and event partners like the National Treasury and audit firm SizeNtsalubaGobodo. 7 things CFOs should know about tax in East Africa In March CFO South Africa's principal sponsor KPMG brought a team of its most eminent tax experts from all corners of Africa to Johannesburg to speak to a gathering of CFOs during the Moving into Africa event in the Michelangelo Hotel in Sandton. Read more exclusive articles on the CFO Awards 2015 - Editorial: what to make of Walmart's slow growth in Africa? Join the CFO Event - “Influencing and driving a growth strategy - the CFO as a genuine business partner” Part 1: Influencing and driving a growth strategy - the CFO as a genuine business partner Thursday 25 June at KPMG Wanooka, Johannesburg 16.00 - 20.00 Numerous business leaders and finance executives have long recognized the need for CFOs to step out of a numbers-focused role and into a true partnership with the business - by participating in strategic planning, providing essential input on funding, managing growth plans and helping to maximize shareholder returns. But now, a growing chorus is calling for a significant new shift in the finance function toward truly business partnership activity and engagement. In this two part series we bring CFOs insights that will help drive their own perspectives and strategies and share best practice for becoming a genuine business partner. Join the CFO South Africa Event today. Program: 16.00 Opening & Reception 17.00 Master Class Corporate Finance Hear leading CEOs discuss their perspective on strategy formulation and the undeniably important role of a CFO. During this masterclass we will also ask CEOs to talk about the future of the CFO role and how they believe it will evolve. 18.30 CFO Café This unique reception offers you the chance to meet your peers and discuss the latest insights on current issues and topics. During the CFO Café you can meet top CFOs and financials while enjoying free snacks and drinks. Don’t miss this opportunity to join us. Also join Part 2: Executing an effective growth strategy for 2016 Thursday 30 July at Nedbank Johannesburg, 16.00 - 20.00 We ask industry experts across deal advisory, banking, private equity, law and, of course, CFOs who have been there and done that, what some of the key challenges are and how they see CFOs delivering effectively. Register here now. Principal Sponsor CFO South Africa: Continuous Professional Development Points Did you know all events of CFO South Africa are eligible for SAICA CPD points? By attending CFO South Africa's events and training courses you will stay compliant. Sign up for the next mind-blowing Fintech Event 100 insiders, experts, startups and investors will discuss the developments and challenges for FinTech in Africa. Several FinTech companies present themselves. This event is organised by FinTech Africa. The ecosystem that connects FinTech startups, investors, corporates and advisors. Join the next Fintech event in Johannesburg and register here now for Tuesday 28 July from 16.00 - 19.00 in Sandton. Read the first CFO Magazine South Africa Who are South Africa's leading CFOs? How do successful CFOs move into Africa? Why should you transform your finance function and how can you do it? How do you attract and retain talent? Who are the preferred advisors to South African CFOs? Read the latest insights from the CFO Award winning CFOs: Simon Ridley, Standard Bank, Anoj Singh, Transnet, Colin Brown, Super Group and Aarti Takoordeen, JSE and also featured interviews with Sizwe Nxasana, CEO Firstrand, Mike Brown, CEO Nedbank, Brett Goschen, CFO MTN, Brooks Mparutsa, CFO Hollard and Irene Singo, CFO Dep. Mineral Resources. As our online member we would like to give you the opportunity to read the first ever CFO Magazine South Africa online and free of charge HERE. Would you like to advertise in the next issue? Please contact Jurrien Morsch at [email protected] or at +27 11 083 7515. Visit Finance Indaba Africa 2016 Finance Indaba Africa is the biggest annual exhibition and conference for financial managers and specialists in Africa. Over 1000 visitors are coming to Finance Indaba Africa to improve financial performance. Visitors are looking for growth, better and faster insights, more control and higher efficiency. Visitors are looking for ideas, inspiration, vendors and advisers and are planning to invest. Visitors are eager to boost their companies, networks and careers. Where & when? Sandton Convention Centre 13 & 14 October 2016. For more information please visit Finance-Indaba.co.za. Would you like to become an exhibitor or you want to visit the indaba? Please contact Graham Fehrsen at [email protected] or at +27 11 083 7515. Upcoming CFO South Africa Events Join the CFO Events with inspiring hosts and experts who will share their insights and experiences with you. Register now for these events and boost your company, network, career and knowledge. CFO South Africa Events in 2015 June 25 KPMG Johannesburg | Influencing and driving a growth strategy July 30 Nedbank Johannesburg | Executing a growth strategy for 2016 Sept 17 Johannesburg | Digital Transformation Nov 19 Johannesburg | Risk, Compliance & Control Register now for one of the upcoming CFO South Africa Events. Please note that all our CFO South Africa events are for senior financial executives. CFO South Africa offers Platinum memberships to CFOs and finance directors. For more information please have a look here and contact Jurrien Morsch at [email protected] Stay connected with CFO South Africa Follow CFO South Africa on Twitter and LinkedIn Stay up to date on what is happening in the world of finance by following us on Twitter @CFOSouthAfrica and LinkedIn. Next to that you can keep track of newly published interviews with CFOs and CEOs. Feel free to contact us Any suggestions or comments are welcome. Kind Regards, Melle Eijckelhoff Director CFO South Africa | [email protected] To control which emails you receive from CFO South Africa, please change your email preferences at cfo.co.za by selecting under settings "I do not want to receive emails from CFO South Africa | Finance Professionals South Africa"

Editorial: what to make of Walmart's slow growth in Africa?

Ever since the American retail giant Walmart bought Massmart as part of their 'Africa strategy', there has been an idea that its brands like Game, Makro, Dion Wired and Builders Warehouse would be popping up like mushrooms across the continent. But is hasn't gone all that quickly. A recent Reuters describes the growth of Massmart as disappointing.

Meet Brett Tromp (Discovery Health), double CFO Award winner 2015

Can someone who introduces a whole new way of reporting - the fourth bottom line - be a CFO? Can somebody who is at the forefront of innovation in the pharmacy industry be a CFO? Can someone with a happy and popular team be a CFO? Or someone who coaches many colleagues and authors articles for magazines for fun? And what about someone who says his church pastor is his example in life or someone who never misses any of his kid's cricket matches? Can he be a CFO?

Announcement: public sector CFO events to the next level

Due to the huge success of our public sector chapter, CFO South Africa is proud to announce that we have scheduled no less than 9 events in 2015 and 2016 where finance leaders from departments, provinces and other government agencies can compare notes, learn from each other, network and have fun. The public sector initiative launched on 13 November 2014 and has been of great value to the participants and event partners like the National Treasury and audit firm SizeNtsalubaGobodo.

7 things CFOs should know about tax in East Africa

In March CFO South Africa's principal sponsor KPMG brought a team of its most eminent tax experts from all corners of Africa to Johannesburg to speak to a gathering of CFOs during the Moving into Africa event in the Michelangelo Hotel in Sandton.

Newsletter: Meet double CFO Award winner Anoj Singh | The evolution of the CFO | 5 things CFOs should know about tax | The CFO as genuine business partner

CFO South Africa Newsletter | Thursday 28 May Dear CFO South Africa Member, Read Exclusive CFO South Africa Articles Meet Anoj Singh (Transnet), double CFO Award winner 2015 When Transnet CEO Brian Molefe was 'redeployed' to save Eskom earlier this year, that was largely due to his successful tenure at the state-owned company responsible for South Africa's rail, ports and pipelines. And it's an open secret that Molefe's success at Transnet is for a big part thanks to the man behind much of the strategy and the numbers: Chief Financial Officer Anoj Singh. Expert Insight: The evolution of the CFO The CFO has become a very popular animal to study. If you want to learn more about its behaviour in the wild, you can read about CFOs in hundreds of research papers and reports that are available on the web. Most researchers are looking for what the world’s most successful CFOs have in common. So what are they learning as they explore boardrooms and C-suites for signs of typical CFO behaviour? 5 things CFOs should know about tax in West Africa In March CFO South Africa's principal sponsor KPMG brought a team of its most eminent tax experts from all corners of Africa to Johannesburg to speak to a gathering of CFOs during the Moving into Africa event in the Michelangelo Hotel in Sandton. After a general introduction by Devon Duffield, Chairman: Tax & Legal at KPMG, one of the most impressive speakers was Victor Onyenkpa, Partner and Head of Tax Regulatory and People Services at KPMG in Nigeria. He focuses on the English-speaking countries in West Africa: Nigeria, Ghana and Sierra Leone. Here are 5 things CFOs should know about tax in West Africa. Read more exclusive articles on the CFO Awards 2015 - Editorial: View from the top Join the CFO Event - “Influencing and driving a growth strategy - the CFO as a genuine business partner” Thursday 25 June at KPMG Wanooka, Johannesburg 16.00 - 20.00 Numerous business leaders and finance executives have long recognized the need for CFOs to step out of a numbers-focused role and into a true partnership with the business - by participating in strategic planning, providing essential input on funding, managing growth plans and helping to maximize shareholder returns. But now, a growing chorus is calling for a significant new shift in the finance function toward truly business partnership activity and engagement. In this two part series we bring CFOs insights that will help drive their own perspectives and strategies and share best practice for becoming a genuine business partner. Join the CFO South Africa Event today. Program: 16.00 Opening & Reception 17.00 Master Class Corporate Finance Hear leading CEOs discuss their perspective on strategy formulation and the undeniably important role of a CFO. During this masterclass we will also ask CEOs to talk about the future of the CFO role and how they believe it will evolve. 17.00 Round Table Corporate Finance This exclusive get-together will offer you the unique opportunity to share your vision and ideas with a select group of CFOs from South Africa’s top companies. 18.30 CFO Café This unique reception offers you the chance to meet your peers and discuss the latest insights on current issues and topics. During the CFO Café you can meet top CFOs and financials while enjoying free snacks and drinks. Don’t miss this opportunity to join us. Principal Sponsor CFO South Africa: Continuous Professional Development Points Did you know all events of CFO South Africa are eligible for SAICA CPD points? By attending CFO South Africa's events and training courses you will stay compliant. Read the first CFO Magazine South Africa Who are South Africa's leading CFOs? How do successful CFOs move into Africa? Why should you transform your finance function and how can you do it? How do you attract and retain talent? Who are the preferred advisors to South African CFOs? Yes. The first CFO South Africa Magazine answers all the questions that keep CFOs awake and throws in great ideas every CFO should consider to keep up with the latest trends and technologies to stay ahead of the competition. The first CFO Magazine CFO South Africa was launched last week at the CFO Awards. Expect 84 pages packed full of need-to-know information delivered in sharp, insightful articles. Also read the latest insights from the CFO Award winning CFOs: Simon Ridley, Standard Bank, Anoj Singh, Transnet, Colin Brown, Super Group and Aarti Takoordeen, JSE and also featured interviews with Sizwe Nxasana, CEO Firstrand, Mike Brown, CEO Nedbank, Brett Goschen, CFO MTN, Brooks Mparutsa, CFO Hollard and Irene Singo, CFO Dep. Mineral Resources. As our online member we would like to give you the opportunity to read the first ever CFO Magazine South Africa online and free of charge HERE. Would you like to advertise in the next issue? Please contact Jurrien Morsch at [email protected] or at +27 11 083 7515. Upcoming CFO South Africa Events Join the CFO Events with inspiring hosts and experts who will share their insights and experiences with you. Register now for these events and boost your company, network, career and knowledge. CFO South Africa Events in 2015 June 25 KPMG Johannesburg | Influencing and driving a growth strategy July 30 Nedbank Johannesburg | Corporate Growth Sept 17 Johannesburg | Digital Transformation Nov 19 Johannesburg | Risk, Compliance & Control Register now for one of the upcoming CFO South Africa Events. Please note that all our CFO South Africa events are for senior financial executives. CFO South Africa offers Platinum memberships to CFOs and finance directors. For more information please have a look here and contact Jurrien Morsch at [email protected] Stay connected with CFO South Africa Follow CFO South Africa on Twitter and LinkedIn Stay up to date on what is happening in the world of finance by following us on Twitter @CFOSouthAfrica and LinkedIn. Next to that you can keep track of newly published interviews with CFOs and CEOs. Feel free to contact us Any suggestions or comments are welcome. Kind Regards, Melle Eijckelhoff Director CFO South Africa | [email protected] To control which emails you receive from CFO South Africa, please change your email preferences at cfo.co.za by selecting under settings "I do not want to receive emails from CFO South Africa | Finance Professionals South Africa"

Editorial: View from the top

As editor of CFO South Africa I often have the privilege of visiting Finance bosses in their offices. One day I find myself navigating the grimy labyrinth of Germiston on my way to see Interwaste FD André Broodryk, the next day I park next to a shiny specimen of the latest Badger infantry combat vehicle on my way to see Denel’s FD Fikile Mhlontlo in Irene. And then there’s the special elevator in the Standard Bank building in downtown Johannesburg – built on top of an old gold mine – that only goes to the executive floor, nowhere else. After going up in style I always feel a little bit important by the time I shake the hand of ‘the quagga’, Group FD Simon Ridley.

Meet Anoj Singh (Transnet), double CFO Award winner 2015

When Transnet CEO Brian Molefe was 'redeployed' to save Eskom earlier this year, that was largely due to his successful tenure at the state-owned company responsible for South Africa's rail, ports and pipelines. And it's an open secret that Molefe's success at Transnet is for a big part thanks to the man behind much of the strategy and the numbers: Chief Financial Officer Anoj Singh.

Expert Insight: The evolution of the CFO

The CFO has become a very popular animal to study. If you want to learn more about its behaviour in the wild, you can read about CFOs in hundreds of research papers and reports that are available on the web. Most researchers are looking for what the world’s most successful CFOs have in common. So what are they learning as they explore boardrooms and C-suites for signs of typical CFO behaviour?

5 things CFOs should know about tax in West Africa

In March CFO South Africa's principal sponsor KPMG brought a team of its most eminent tax experts from all corners of Africa to Johannesburg to speak to a gathering of CFOs during the Moving into Africa event in the Michelangelo Hotel in Sandton.

Newsletter: Alexander Forbes CFO Deon Viljoen CFO of the Year 2015 | CFO Awards 2015: as it happened | Productivity Ninja Martijn Aslander shows CFOs the future

CFO South Africa Newsletter | Thursday 20 May Dear CFO South Africa Member, Read Exclusive CFO South Africa Articles Alexander Forbes CFO Deon Viljoen named CFO of the Year 2015 Deon Viljoen, Chief Financial Officer at South Africa’s largest retirement fund administrator Alexander Forbes, has been named South Africa’s CFO of the Year 2015. The award was presented on Thursday 14 May 2015 at the end of an inspirational conference and gala event at Summer Place in Hyde Park, Johannesburg. Brett Tromp (Discovery Health) was named Young CFO of the Year, while Anoj Singh (Transnet) retained his title as Public CFO of the Year. Productivity Ninja Martijn Aslander shows CFOs the future at Awards... Lifehacker and “productivity ninja” Martijn Aslander delivered a thought-provoking Master Class, entitled “The exponential organisation – surviving the 21st century” at Thursday's CFO Conference before the annual CFO Awards ceremony at Summer Place in Hyde Park, Johannesburg. Many CFOs called the session "life changing" or indicated they would be rethinking their strategies after hearing Aslander's clarion call for change and disruption. Editorial: young CFO award winners & an endorsement by Prof. King Lets first get the bad news out of the way. After the formidable Aarti Takoordeen won the Young CFO of the Year Award in 2014, there were exactly zero female award winners last Thursday, It was disappointing, but I know that the members of the panel of judges have genuinely voted for their favourite candidates per category so there's nothing that we can do about that now. With CFOs like Raisibe Morathi (Nedbank), Ronel van Dijk (Spur Group), Megan Pydigadu (MiX Telematics) and Rofhiwa Irene Singo (Department of Mineral Resources) there were definitely some strong female contenders. I am not one for militant feminism or paragraphs begrudging glass ceilings, but I surely hope the scales will tip in 2016. Read more exclusive articles on the CFO Awards 2015 - Meet Deon Viljoen (Alexander Forbes), CFO of the Year 2015 - CFO Awards 2015: as it happened (with all the quotes!) Join the CFO Event - Corporate Finance Thursday 25 June at KPMG Wanooka, Johannesburg 16.00 - 20.00 The world is continuously changing and companies must constantly adapt to these shifting market conditions in order to capitalize on growth opportunities for the next generation. Whether you are a private company looking to sell or raise capital, a public company looking to divest non-core assets or acquire strategically in the far reaches of the globe, or an institutional investor needing proprietary knowledge or access, we will show you the best strategies and latest insights on corporate financing. Join the CFO South Africa Event Corporate Finance now. Program: 16.00 Opening & Reception 17.00 Master Class Corporate Finance Let KPMG experts tell you how you can improve your business. At the CFO Master Class an expert will reveal new insights and answers to all your questions. 17.00 Round Table Corporate Finance This exclusive get-together will offer you the unique opportunity to share your vision and ideas with a select group of CFOs from South Africa’s top companies. 18.30 CFO Café This unique reception offers you the chance to meet your peers and discuss the latest insights on current issues and topics. During the CFO Café you can meet top CFOs and financials while enjoying free snacks and drinks. Don’t miss this opportunity to join us. Principal Sponsor CFO South Africa: Continuous Professional Development Points Did you know all events of CFO South Africa are eligible for SAICA CPD points? By attending CFO South Africa's events and training courses you will stay compliant. Read the first CFO Magazine South Africa Who are South Africa's leading CFOs? How do successful CFOs move into Africa? Why should you transform your finance function and how can you do it? How do you attract and retain talent? Who are the preferred advisors to South African CFOs? Yes. The first CFO South Africa Magazine answers all the questions that keep CFOs awake and throws in great ideas every CFO should consider to keep up with the latest trends and technologies to stay ahead of the competition. The first CFO Magazine CFO South Africa was launched last week at the CFO Awards. Expect 84 pages packed full of need-to-know information delivered in sharp, insightful articles. Also read the latest insights from the CFO Award winning CFOs: Simon Ridley, Standard Bank, Anoj Singh, Transnet, Colin Brown, Super Group and Aarti Takoordeen, JSE and also featured interviews with Sizwe Nxasana, CEO Firstrand, Mike Brown, CEO Nedbank, Brett Goschen, CFO MTN, Brooks Mparutsa, CFO Hollard and Irene Singo, CFO Dep. Mineral Resources. As our online member we would like to give you the opportunity to read the first ever CFO Magazine South Africa online and free of charge HERE. Would you like to advertise in the next issue? Please contact Jurrien Morsch at [email protected] or at +27 11 083 7515. Upcoming CFO South Africa Events Join the CFO Events with inspiring hosts and experts who will share their insights and experiences with you. Register now for these events and boost your company, network, career and knowledge. CFO South Africa Events in 2015 June 25 KPMG Johannesburg | Corporate Finance July 30 Nedbank Johannesburg | Corporate Growth Sept 17 Johannesburg | Digital Transformation Nov 19 Johannesburg | Risk, Compliance & Control Register now for one of the upcoming CFO South Africa Events. Please note that all our CFO South Africa events are for senior financial executives. CFO South Africa offers Platinum memberships to CFOs and finance directors. For more information please have a look here and contact Jurrien Morsch at [email protected] Stay connected with CFO South Africa Follow CFO South Africa on Twitter and LinkedIn Stay up to date on what is happening in the world of finance by following us on Twitter @CFOSouthAfrica and LinkedIn. Next to that you can keep track of newly published interviews with CFOs and CEOs. Feel free to contact us Any suggestions or comments are welcome. Kind Regards, Melle Eijckelhoff Director CFO South Africa | [email protected] To control which emails you receive from CFO South Africa, please change your email preferences at cfo.co.za by selecting under settings "I do not want to receive emails from CFO South Africa | Finance Professionals South Africa"

Editorial: young CFO award winners & an endorsement by Prof. King

Lets first get the bad news out of the way. After the formidable Aarti Takoordeen won the Young CFO of the Year Award in 2014, there were exactly zero female award winners last Thursday, It was disappointing, but I know that the members of the panel of judges have genuinely voted for their favourite candidates per category so there's nothing that we can do about that now. With CFOs like Raisibe Morathi (Nedbank), Ronel van Dijk (Spur Group), Megan Pydigadu (MiX Telematics) and Rofhiwa Irene Singo (Department of Mineral Resources) there were definitely some strong female contenders. I am not one for militant feminism or paragraphs begrudging glass ceilings, but I surely hope the scales will tip in 2016.

Meet Deon Viljoen (Alexander Forbes), CFO of the Year 2015

One of the first things Deon Viljoen told the panel of judges during his interview for this year's CFO Awards is that he had "aged in dog years" in the past 7 years as Chief Financial Officer at Alexander Forbes, the country's largest retirement fund administrator. In that period he guided the company during a delisting and a relisting at the JSE Limited, he overhauled the entire structure of the business and sold one of its biggest businesses to an international buyer. "I enjoy those multidimensional challenges," assured the judges during the interview. He feels the brand and its reputation came out of the turbulent period unscathed. “Our clients trust us and I feel that I contribute to that.”

Productivity Ninja Martijn Aslander shows CFOs the future at Awards Master Class

Lifehacker and “productivity ninja” Martijn Aslander delivered a thought-provoking Master Class, entitled “The exponential organisation – surviving the 21st century” at Thursday's CFO Conference before the annual CFO Awards ceremony at Summer Place in Hyde Park, Johannesburg. Many CFOs called the session "life changing" or indicated they would be rethinking their strategies after hearing Aslander's clarion call for change and disruption.

CFO Awards 2015: as it happened (with all the quotes!)

Alexander Forbes CFO Deon Viljoen was named CFO of the Year 2015 last night during an incredibly successful CFO Conference and Gala Dinner at the Summer Place in Hyde Park, Johannesburg. Our dynamic reporter Ebrahim Moolla roamed the event and jotted down quotes throughout the evening. I included the best ones in this recap of the event.

Alexander Forbes CFO Deon Viljoen named CFO of the Year 2015

Deon Viljoen, Chief Financial Officer at South Africa’s largest retirement fund administrator Alexander Forbes, has been named South Africa’s CFO of the Year 2015. The award was presented on Thursday 14 May 2015 at the end of an inspirational conference and gala event at Summer Place in Hyde Park, Johannesburg. Brett Tromp (Discovery Health) was named Young CFO of the Year, while Anoj Singh (Transnet) retained his title as Public CFO of the Year.

And the winner is... anticipation skyrockets for 2015 CFO Awards

The judges have picked their favourites, the votes have been tallied and the winners are... As CFOs are polishing their shoes, picking their best evening dress and searching their cupboards for their bow-ties, anticipation rises and tension is palpable - the CFO Awards 2015 are upon us.

Anoj Singh, Transnet: the appeal of the public sector for CAs

“If you want to be a great CFO, you need to be in a position where you can learn to manage a complex organisation,” says Anoj Singh, Group Chief Financial Officer at the dynamic State-Owned Company (SOC) Transnet and winner of two CFO Awards at the annual gala evening on 15 May 2014. In the run up to this year’s CFO of the Year gala, we are publishing a short version of the interview we had with Anoj for the first issue of the brand new CFO Magazine – which will be launched during the CFO conference and awards event on 14 May.

The Financial Reporting Paradigm

While spreadsheets allow for the easy design of extensive financial reports with a wide range of analysis and design options, they do have notable limitations.

Newsletter: CFOs who don't understand IT are at risk | 4 principles for Africa - infrastructure | Last chance to join the CFO Awards 2015

CFO South Africa Newsletter | Thursday 7 May Dear CFO South Africa Member, Read Exclusive CFO South Africa Articles Colin Brown, Super Group: a CFO that doesn’t understand IT is at risk “I believe that a CFO that doesn’t understand IT is at risk,” says Super Group CFO Colin Brown, whose recipe for success includes his deep understanding of IT, something he believes will aid any CFO tremendously. Brown was the winner of both the Finance Transformation and Strategy Execution award at the inaugural CFO of the Year event in 2014. In the run up to this year’s CFO of the Year gala, we are publishing a short version of the interview we had with Colin for the first issue of the brand new CFO Magazine – which will be launched during the CFO conference and awards event on 14 May. Greg Davis, Standard Bank: 4 principles for Africa - infrastructure In January Greg Davis, CFO Africa at the Standard Bank Group, introduced his key principles for doing business in Africa and elaborated on being in control. In the following months he also wrote about interacting and influencing. In this Expert Insight he talks about the fourth and final principle: getting the most out of infrastructure. Top class entertainment at CFO Awards With this year's CFO Awards coming closer each day, we are excited to announce that we have secured the services of some top class entertainers to enliven the evening: Jacques Lagesse and Cristina Rodrigues. Together with chairman Vusi Thembekwayo, they will be the main voices on the podium during the gala dinner - in between the announcements of the awards of course! Last Chance to join the annual CFO Awards South Africa Thursday May 14th at the Summer Place, Johannesburg 15.30 - 23.00 The annual CFO Awards will be held at the beautiful Summer Place in Johannesburg. This prestigious event recognises CFOs of listed companies, large corporations, parastatals and government institutions and awards them for outstanding performance and leadership. The gala dinner brings together South Africa’s top finance professionals. It is an opportunity to celebrate excellence and engage in conversations about the culture, pitfalls and possibilities of continuously exceeding expectations. Among the speakers are the Doyen of Corporate Governance, in South Africa and internationally, Professor Mervyn King, CFO of the Year winner 2014 and Group CFO of Standard Bank, Simon Ridley, the internationally renowned Martijn Aslander from the Netherlands, the Auditor General, Kimi Makwetu, the new CEO of KPMG South Africa, Trevor Hoole and one of the best motivational speakers and keynote speakers alive today, Vusi Thembekwayo. Also the CFOs of Sasol, Discovery Health, the National Treasury, Super Group, Howden, Spur, Dep. of Mineral Resources, Philips and many more will take the stage. Designed to demonstrate thought leadership, extend professional networks and help businesses to grow, this event sets the bar for financial leadership on the African continent. It is open to all CFOs and Financial Directors. Program: 15.30 Opening CFO Awards 2015 & Reception 16:30 Exclusive executive sessions discussing business issues that are high on the CFO agenda - Round Table Strategy Execution - Round Table High Performance Team - Round Table Finance Transformation - Round Table Public Finance - Round Table Moving into Africa - Master Class "The exponential organisation- surviving the 21st Century" 18.00 Pre Dinner drinks 18.30 CFO Dinner & Awards - CFO of the Year Award - Public CFO of the Year Award - Young CFO of the Year Award - Moving into Africa Award - Finance & Technology Award - Transformation & Empowerment Award - Finance Transformation Award - Strategy Execution Award - Compliance & Governance Award - High Performance Team Award 22.00 After Drinks CFO South Africa invites you to buy a table at the CFO Awards, attend the CFO Conference or become our partner. Places are limited, so book now to avoid disappointment. Register now here. Principal Sponsor CFO Awards: Continuous Professional Development Points Did you know all events of CFO South Africa are eligible for SAICA CPD points? By attending CFO South Africa's events and training courses you will stay compliant. CFO Awards 2015 - Reserve your table now Buy a table for the CFO Awards and meet South Africa's leading CFOs, demonstrate thought leadership, extend your network and develop business. You are seated with CFOs and finance directors from among others Advtech, Allianz, Aveng, Barclays, Cashbuild, City of Johannesburg, Eskom, EOH, FNB, G4S, Gauteng Treasury, Hollard, Liberty, Nedbank, Nissan, Novartis, Old Mutual, Sasol, Standard Bank, Telkom, Transnet and Woolworths. You are also more than welcome to join the CFO Conference preceding the CFO Awards dinner with your colleagues. Don't wait too long, first come, first served. Become a partner or attend with your finance team and RSVP here. For more information check out CFOAwards.co.za. Read the first CFO Magazine South Africa Who are South Africa's leading CFOs? How do successful CFOs move into Africa? Why should you transform your finance function and how can you do it? How do you attract and retain talent? Who are the preferred advisors to South African CFOs? Yes. The first CFO South Africa Magazine answers all the questions that keep CFOs awake and throws in great ideas every CFO should consider to keep up with the latest trends and technologies to stay ahead of the competition. The first CFO Magazine CFO South Africa is due out 14 May. Expect 84 pages packed full of need-to-know information delivered in sharp, insightful articles. Also read the latest insights from the CFO Award winning CFOs: Simon Ridley, Standard Bank, Anoj Singh, Transnet, Colin Brown, Super Group and Aarti Takoordeen, JSE and also featured interviews with Sizwe Nxasana, CEO Firstrand, Mike Brown, CEO Nedbank, Brett Goschen, CFO MTN, Brooks Mparutsa, CFO Hollard and Irene Singo, CFO Dep. Mineral Resources. Are you interested in receiving the first ever CFO Magazine South Africa or advertising in the next issue please contact Jurrien Morsch at [email protected] or at +27 11 083 7515. Upcoming CFO South Africa Events Join the CFO Events with inspiring hosts and experts who will share their insights and experiences with you. Register now for these events and boost your company, network, career and knowledge. CFO South Africa Events in 2015 May 14 Johannesburg | CFO Awards 2015 June 25 Johannesburg | Corporate Finance July 30 Johannesburg | Corporate Growth Sept 17 Johannesburg | Digital Transformation Nov 19 Johannesburg | Risk, Compliance & Control Register now for one of the upcoming CFO South Africa Events. Please note that all our CFO South Africa events are for senior financial executives. CFO South Africa offers Platinum memberships to CFOs and finance directors. For more information please have a look here and contact Jurrien Morsch at [email protected] Stay connected with CFO South Africa Follow CFO South Africa on Twitter and LinkedIn Stay up to date on what is happening in the world of finance by following us on Twitter @CFOSouthAfrica and LinkedIn. Next to that you can keep track of newly published interviews with CFOs and CEOs. Feel free to contact us Any suggestions or comments are welcome. Kind Regards, Melle Eijckelhoff Director CFO South Africa | [email protected]

Colin Brown, Super Group: a CFO that doesn't understand IT is at risk

“I believe that a CFO that doesn’t understand IT is at risk,” says Super Group CFO Colin Brown, whose recipe for success includes his deep understanding of IT, something he believes will aid any CFO tremendously. Brown was the winner of both the Finance Transformation and Strategy Execution award at the inaugural CFO of the Year event in 2014. In the run up to this year’s CFO of the Year gala, we are publishing a short version of the interview we had with Colin for the first issue of the brand new CFO Magazine – which will be launched during the CFO conference and awards event on 14 May.

Greg Davis, Standard Bank: 4 principles for Africa - infrastructure

In January Greg Davis, CFO Africa at the Standard Bank Group, introduced his key principles for doing business in Africa and elaborated on being in control. In the following months he also wrote about interacting and influencing. In this Expert Insight he talks about the fourth and final principle: getting the most out of infrastructure.

Newsletter: CFO Standard Bank: Curiosity breeds good CFOs | World class tier 1 ERP for government | CFO Awards 2015 - Reserve your table now

CFO South Africa Newsletter | Thursday 30 April Dear CFO South Africa Member, Read Exclusive CFO South Africa Articles Simon Ridley, Standard Bank: Curiosity breeds good CFOs “As CFOs we need to be trusted advisors, rather than critics,” says Simon Ridley, CFO at the Standard Bank Group and CFO of the Year 2014. In the run up to this year’s CFO of the Year gala, we are publishing a short version of the interview we had with Simon for the first issue of the brand new CFO Magazine – which will be launched during the CFO conference and awards event on 14 May. World class tier 1 ERP for government Admitting mistakes is not something we have come to expect from the governments. Lindy Bodewig, Chief Director at the National Treasury, admitted some mistakes were made while reflecting on the failure. These mistakes have provided national treasury with a much more sober and realistic outlook to the implications of implementing an ERP. During a candid round table with CFOs from the public sector, Bodewig charted the way forward and promised the anxious finance leaders light at the end of the tunnel. Top class entertainment at CFO Awards With this year's CFO Awards coming closer each day, we are excited to announce that we have secured the services of some top class entertainers to enliven the evening: Jacques Lagesse and Cristina Rodrigues. Together with chairman Vusi Thembekwayo, they will be the main voices on the podium during the gala dinner - in between the announcements of the awards of course! Join the annual CFO Awards South Africa Thursday May 14th at the Summer Place, Johannesburg 15.30 - 23.00 The annual CFO Awards will be held at the beautiful Summer Place in Johannesburg. This prestigious event recognises CFOs of listed companies, large corporations, parastatals and government institutions and awards them for outstanding performance and leadership. The gala dinner brings together South Africa’s top finance professionals. It is an opportunity to celebrate excellence and engage in conversations about the culture, pitfalls and possibilities of continuously exceeding expectations. Among the speakers are the Doyen of Corporate Governance, in South Africa and internationally, Professor Mervyn King, CFO of the Year winner 2014 and Group CFO of Standard Bank, Simon Ridley, the internationally renowned Martijn Aslander from the Netherlands, the Auditor General, Kimi Makwetu, the new CEO of KPMG South Africa, Trevor Hoole and one of the best motivational speakers and keynote speakers alive today, Vusi Thembekwayo. Also the CFOs of Discovery Health, Howden, Spur, Dep. of Mineral Resources, Philips and many more will take the stage. Designed to demonstrate thought leadership, extend professional networks and help businesses to grow, this event sets the bar for financial leadership on the African continent. It is open to all CFOs and Financial Directors. Program: 15.30 Opening CFO Awards 2015 & Reception 16:30 Exclusive executive sessions discussing business issues that are high on the CFO agenda - Round Table Strategy Execution - Round Table High Performance Team - Round Table Finance Transformation - Round Table Public Finance - Round Table Moving into Africa - Master Class "The exponential organisation- surviving the 21st Century" 18.00 Pre Dinner drinks 18.30 CFO Dinner & Awards - CFO of the Year Award - Public CFO of the Year Award - Young CFO of the Year Award - Moving into Africa Award - Finance & Technology Award - Transformation & Empowerment Award - Finance Transformation Award - Strategy Execution Award - Compliance & Governance Award - High Performance Team Award 22.00 After Drinks CFO South Africa invites you to buy a table at the CFO Awards, attend the CFO Conference or become our partner. Places are limited, so book now to avoid disappointment. Register now here. Principal Sponsor CFO Awards: Continuous Professional Development Points Did you know all events of CFO South Africa are eligible for SAICA CPD points? By attending CFO South Africa's events and training courses you will stay compliant. CFO Awards 2015 - Reserve your table now Buy a table for the CFO Awards and meet South Africa's leading CFOs, demonstrate thought leadership, extend your network and develop business. You are seated with CFOs and finance directors from among others Advtech, Allianz, Aveng, Barclays, Cashbuild, City of Johannesburg, Eskom, EOH, FNB, G4S, Gauteng Treasury, Hollard, Liberty, Nedbank, Nissan, Novartis, Old Mutual, Sasol, Standard Bank, Telkom, Transnet and Woolworths. You are also more than welcome to join the CFO Conference preceding the CFO Awards dinner with your colleagues. Don't wait too long, first come, first served. Become a partner or attend with your finance team and RSVP here. For more information check out CFOAwards.co.za. Read the first CFO Magazine South Africa Who are South Africa's leading CFOs? How do successful CFOs move into Africa? Why should you transform your finance function and how can you do it? How do you attract and retain talent? Who are the preferred advisors to South African CFOs? Yes. The first CFO South Africa Magazine answers all the questions that keep CFOs awake and throws in great ideas every CFO should consider to keep up with the latest trends and technologies to stay ahead of the competition. The first CFO Magazine CFO South Africa is due out 14 May. Expect 84 pages packed full of need-to-know information delivered in sharp, insightful articles. Also read the latest insights from the CFO Award winning CFOs: Simon Ridley, Standard Bank, Anoj Singh, Transnet, Colin Brown, Super Group and Aarti Takoordeen, JSE and also featured interviews with Sizwe Nxasana, CEO Firstrand, Mike Brown, CEO Nedbank, Brett Goschen, CFO MTN, Brooks Mparutsa, CFO Hollard and Irene Singo, CFO Dep. Mineral Resources. Are you interested in receiving the first ever CFO Magazine South Africa or advertising in the next issue please contact Jurrien Morsch at [email protected] or at +27 11 083 7515. Upcoming CFO South Africa Events Join the CFO Events with inspiring hosts and experts who will share their insights and experiences with you. Register now for these events and boost your company, network, career and knowledge. CFO South Africa Events in 2015 May 14 Johannesburg | CFO Awards 2015 June 25 Johannesburg | Corporate Finance July 30 Johannesburg | Corporate Growth Sept 17 Johannesburg | Digital Transformation Nov 19 Johannesburg | Risk, Compliance & Control Register now for one of the upcoming CFO South Africa Events. Please note that all our CFO South Africa events are for senior financial executives. CFO South Africa offers Platinum memberships to CFOs and finance directors. For more information please have a look here and contact Jurrien Morsch at [email protected] Stay connected with CFO South Africa Follow CFO South Africa on Twitter and LinkedIn Stay up to date on what is happening in the world of finance by following us on Twitter @CFOSouthAfrica and LinkedIn. Next to that you can keep track of newly published interviews with CFOs and CEOs. Feel free to contact us Any suggestions or comments are welcome. Kind Regards, Melle Eijckelhoff Director CFO South Africa | [email protected] To control which emails you receive from CFO South Africa, please change your email preferences at cfo.co.za by selecting under settings "I do not want to receive emails from CFO South Africa | Finance Professionals South Africa"

Simon Ridley, Standard Bank: Curiosity breeds good CFOs

“As CFOs we need to be trusted advisors, rather than critics,” says Simon Ridley, CFO at the Standard Bank Group and CFO of the Year 2014. In the run up to this year’s CFO of the Year gala, we are publishing a short version of the interview we had with Simon for the first issue of the brand new CFO Magazine – which will be launched during the CFO conference and awards event on 14 May.

World class tier 1 ERP for government

Admitting mistakes is not something we have come to expect from the governments. Lindy Bodewig, Chief Director at the National Treasury, admitted some mistakes were made while reflecting on the failure. These mistakes have provided national treasury with a much more sober and realistic outlook to the implications of implementing an ERP. During a candid round table with CFOs from the public sector, Bodewig charted the way forward and promised the anxious finance leaders light at the end of the tunnel.

Newsletter: Reeza Isaacs, Finance Director Woolworths | What makes the perfect CFO | The CFO as IT evangelist

CFO South Africa Newsletter | Thursday 23 April Dear CFO South Africa Member, Read Exclusive CFO South Africa Articles Reeza Isaacs, Finance Director Woolworths: enjoying the fast paced ... When the Woolworths CEO Ian Moir suggested that they have dinner, Reeza Isaacs didn’t think much of it. He was Managing Partner at services firm EY that audited the Woolworths account and there was a long standing relationship between the organisations. Then came the job offer and Isaacs hasn’t looked back. From closely being involved in the spectacular acquisition of Australian retailer David Jones to getting used to receiving daily updates about trading results, it has been a real roller coaster ride for the FD of Woolworths. We spoke to Isaacs about the importance of mentoring, his proudest moments at EY and his successful shift to the fast pace of retail. “It has been a phenomenal experience.” The CFO as IT evangelist? Top CFOs share their thoughts at CFO SA d... How are CFOs and their departments dealing with the digital winds of change inspired by technological advancement and disruptive start-ups? How is the role of the modern CFO adapting to this new environment and what skills are necessary to make these adjustments? These were some of the questions posed at the CFO South Africa dinner and round table event at the Four Seasons Westcliff hotel in Johannesburg on 15 April 2015. What makes the perfect CFO? Platinum Member lunch and VIP Tour Business partner, strategist, change agent, IT evangelist, operational genius … who is today’s successful CFO? This question was the starting point of an enlightening discussion attended by the CFOs Antionio Agostinello, Valsir Uneeq, Nichola Dewar, Postbank, Molly Gallant, Ryden International, Jo-Ann Pohl, Standard Chartered Bank, Richard Somanje, Mvula Trust, Heleen Wright, Moonwater and Aarti Takoordeen, JSE at the Platinum Member lunch at KPMG’s elegant Wanooka House dining room on Friday, 17 April 2015. Join the annual CFO Awards South Africa Thursday May 14th at the Summer Place, Johannesburg 15.30 - 23.00 The annual CFO Awards will be held at the beautiful Summer Place in Johannesburg. This prestigious event recognises CFOs of listed companies, large corporations, parastatals and government institutions and awards them for outstanding performance and leadership. The gala dinner brings together South Africa’s top finance professionals. It is an opportunity to celebrate excellence and engage in conversations about the culture, pitfalls and possibilities of continuously exceeding expectations. Among the speakers are the Doyen of Corporate Governance, in South Africa and internationally Professor Mervyn King, CFO of the Year winner 2014 and Group CFO of Standard Bank, Simon Ridley, the internationally renowned Martijn Aslander from the Netherlands, the Auditor General, Kimi Makwetu, the new CEO of KPMG South Africa, Trevor Hoole and one of the best motivational speakers and keynote speakers alive today, Vusi Thembekwayo. Designed to demonstrate thought leadership, extend professional networks and help businesses to grow, this event sets the bar for financial leadership on the African continent. It is open to all CFOs and Financial Directors. Program: 15.30 Opening CFO Awards 2015 & Reception 16:30 Exclusive executive sessions discussing business issues that are high on the CFO agenda - Round Table Strategy Execution - Round Table High Performance Team - Round Table Finance Transformation - Round Table Public Finance - Round Table Moving into Africa - Master Class "The exponential organisation" 18.00 Pre Dinner drinks 18.30 CFO Dinner & Awards - CFO of the Year Award - Public CFO of the Year Award - Young CFO of the Year Award - Moving into Africa Award - Finance & Technology Award - Transformation & Empowerment Award - Finance Transformation Award - Strategy Execution Award - Compliance & Governance Award - High Performance Team Award 22.00 After Drinks CFO South Africa invites you to buy a table at the CFO Awards, attend the CFO Conference or become our partner. Places are limited, so book now to avoid disappointment. Register now here. Principal Sponsor CFO Awards: Continuous Professional Development Points Did you know all events of CFO South Africa are eligible for SAICA CPD points? By attending CFO South Africa's events and training courses you will stay compliant. CFO Awards 2015 - Reserve your table now Buy a table for the CFO Awards and meet South Africa's leading CFOs, demonstrate thought leadership, extend your network and develop business. You are seated with CFOs and finance directors from among others Advtech, Allianz, Aveng, Barclays, Cashbuild, City of Johannesburg, Eskom, EOH, FNB, G4S, Gauteng Treasury, Hollard, Liberty, Nedbank, Nissan, Novartis, Old Mutual, Sasol, Standard Bank, Telkom, Transnet and Woolworths. You are also more than welcome to join the CFO Conference preceding the CFO Awards dinner with your colleagues. Don't wait too long, first come, first served. Become a partner or attend with your finance team and RSVP here. For more information check out CFOAwards.co.za. Upcoming CFO South Africa Events Join the CFO Events with inspiring hosts and experts who will share their insights and experiences with you. Register now for these events and boost your company, network, career and knowledge. CFO South Africa Events in 2015 May 14 Johannesburg | CFO Awards 2015 June 25 Johannesburg | Corporate Finance July 30 Johannesburg | Corporate Growth Sept 17 Johannesburg | Digital Transformation Nov 19 Johannesburg | Risk, Compliance & Control Register now for one of the upcoming CFO South Africa Events. Please note that all our CFO South Africa events are for senior financial executives. CFO South Africa offers Platinum memberships to CFOs and finance directors. For more information please have a look here and contact Jurrien Morsch at [email protected] Stay connected with CFO South Africa Follow CFO South Africa on Twitter and LinkedIn Stay up to date on what is happening in the world of finance by following us on Twitter @CFOSouthAfrica and LinkedIn. Next to that you can keep track of newly published interviews with CFOs and CEOs. Feel free to contact us Any suggestions or comments are welcome. Kind Regards, Melle Eijckelhoff Director CFO South Africa | [email protected] To control which emails you receive from CFO South Africa, please change your email preferences at cfo.co.za by selecting under settings "I do not want to receive emails from CFO South Africa | Finance Professionals South Africa"

What makes the perfect CFO? Platinum Member lunch and VIP Tour

Business partner, strategist, change agent, IT evangelist, operational genius … who is today’s successful CFO?

Reeza Isaacs, Finance Director Woolworths: enjoying the fast paced retail race

When the Woolworths CEO Ian Moir suggested that they have dinner, Reeza Isaacs didn’t think much of it. He was Managing Partner at services firm EY that audited the Woolworths account and there was a long standing relationship between the organisations. Then came the job offer and Isaacs hasn’t looked back. From closely being involved in the spectacular acquisition of Australian retailer David Jones to getting used to receiving daily updates about trading results, it has been a real roller coaster ride for the FD of Woolworths. We spoke to Isaacs about the importance of mentoring, his proudest moments at EY and his successful shift to the fast pace of retail. “It has been a phenomenal experience.”

The CFO as IT evangelist? Top CFOs share their thoughts at CFO SA dinner

How are CFOs and their departments dealing with the digital winds of change inspired by technological advancement and disruptive start-ups? How is the role of the modern CFO adapting to this new environment and what skills are necessary to make these adjustments? These were some of the questions posed at the CFO South Africa dinner and round table event at the Four Seasons Westcliff hotel in Johannesburg on 15 April 2015.

Newsletter: Everything CFOs need to know about social media risk | Ramaphosa calls for development | 6 step Financial systems guide for CFOs | Judges to decide CFO Award winners

CFO South Africa Newsletter | Thursday 16 April Dear CFO South Africa Member, Read Exclusive CFO South Africa Articles Interviews with nominated CFOs concluded, Awards judges to decide All 32 CFOs that are nominated for the CFO Awards 2015 have now been interviewed by a representation of the panel of judges. For me, it has been a massive honour and learning opportunity to be part of the process, that started mid-February. Packs with all the interviews and profiles highlighting the performance of the nominated CFOs will soon be sent to the esteemed panel of judges, which will decide on the winners for the 10 categories using a nifty online voting system. Everything CFOs need to know about social media risk Pornography, obscenity, piracy and your business - there are some things you wish you didn't know about social media... The incessant daily nattering, cat photos and public outpourings of devotion for teen pop idols that are synonymous with social media may seem a world away from the office of the CFO. Which should not be interpreted as a criticism of any closeted C-suite Beliebers who might be reading this. SA Premier Business Awards: Ramaphosa calls for development South African Deputy President Cyril Ramaphosa delivered the keynote address at the SA Premier Business Awards at the Sandton Convention Centre on 9 April 2015. He urged the country’s entrepreneurs to think of their businesses as building blocks of social development, and not merely as vehicles for earning profits. Read more exclusive articles on cfo.co.za - The right solution – keeping the wholesale retail industry focused Join the annual CFO Awards South Africa Thursday May 14th at the Summer Place, Johannesburg 15.30 - 23.00 The annual CFO Awards will be held at the beautiful Summer Place in Johannesburg. This prestigious event recognises CFOs of listed companies, large corporations, parastatals and government institutions and awards them for outstanding performance and leadership. The gala dinner brings together South Africa’s top finance professionals. It is an opportunity to celebrate excellence and engage in conversations about the culture, pitfalls and possibilities of continuously exceeding expectations. Among the speakers are the Doyen of Corporate Governance, in South Africa and internationally Professor Mervyn King, CFO of the Year winner 2014 and Group CFO of Standard Bank, Simon Ridley, the internationally renowned Martijn Aslander from the Netherlands, the Auditor General, Kimi Makwetu, the new CEO of KPMG South Africa, Trevor Hoole and one of the best motivational speakers and keynote speakers alive today, Vusi Thembekwayo. Designed to demonstrate thought leadership, extend professional networks and help businesses to grow, this event sets the bar for financial leadership on the African continent. It is open to all CFOs and Financial Directors. Program: 15.30 Opening CFO Awards 2015 & Reception 16:30 Exclusive executive sessions discussing business issues that are high on the CFO agenda - Round Table Strategy Execution - Round Table High Performance Team - Round Table Finance Transformation - Round Table Public Finance - Round Table Moving into Africa - Master Class "The exponential organisation" 18.00 Pre Dinner drinks 18.30 CFO Dinner & Awards - CFO of the Year Award - Public CFO of the Year Award - Young CFO of the Year Award - Moving into Africa Award - Finance & Technology Award - Transformation & Empowerment Award - Finance Transformation Award - Strategy Execution Award - Compliance & Governance Award - High Performance Team Award 22.00 After Drinks CFO South Africa invites you to buy a table at the CFO Awards, attend the CFO Conference or become our partner. Places are limited, so book now to avoid disappointment. Register now here. Principal Sponsor CFO Awards: Continuous Professional Development Points Did you know all events of CFO South Africa are eligible for SAICA CPD points? By attending CFO South Africa's events and training courses you will stay compliant. CFO Awards 2015 - Reserve your table now Buy a table for the CFO Awards and meet South Africa's leading CFOs, demonstrate thought leadership, extend your network and develop business. You are seated with CFOs and finance directors from among others Advtech, Allianz, Aveng, Barclays, Cashbuild, City of Johannesburg, Eskom, EOH, FNB, G4S, Gauteng Treasury, Hollard, Liberty, Nedbank, Nissan, Novartis, Old Mutual, Sasol, Standard Bank, Telkom, Transnet and Woolworths. You are also more than welcome to join the CFO Conference preceding the CFO Awards dinner with your colleagues. Don't wait too long, first come, first served. Become a partner or attend with your finance team and RSVP here. For more information check out CFOAwards.co.za. Upcoming CFO South Africa Events Join the CFO Events with inspiring hosts and experts who will share their insights and experiences with you. Register now for these events and boost your company, network, career and knowledge. CFO South Africa Events in 2015 Mar 19 Johannesburg | Moving into Africa May 14 Johannesburg | CFO Awards 2015 June 25 Johannesburg | Corporate Finance July 30 Johannesburg | Corporate Growth Sept 17 Johannesburg | Digital Transformation Nov 19 Johannesburg | Risk, Compliance & Control Register now for one of the upcoming CFO South Africa Events. Please note that all our CFO South Africa events are for senior financial executives. CFO South Africa offers Platinum memberships to CFOs and finance directors. For more information please have a look here and contact Jurrien Morsch at [email protected] Stay connected with CFO South Africa Follow CFO South Africa on Twitter and LinkedIn Stay up to date on what is happening in the world of finance by following us on Twitter @CFOSouthAfrica and LinkedIn. Next to that you can keep track of newly published interviews with CFOs and CEOs. Feel free to contact us Any suggestions or comments are welcome. Kind Regards, Melle Eijckelhoff Director CFO South Africa | [email protected]

Interviews with nominated CFOs concluded, Awards judges to decide

All 32 CFOs that are nominated for the CFO Awards 2015 have now been interviewed by a representation of the panel of judges. For me, it has been a massive honour and learning opportunity to be part of the process, that started mid-February. Packs with all the interviews and profiles highlighting the performance of the nominated CFOs will soon be sent to the esteemed panel of judges, which will decide on the winners for the 10 categories using a nifty online voting system.

SA Premier Business Awards: Ramaphosa calls for development

South African Deputy President Cyril Ramaphosa delivered the keynote address at the SA Premier Business Awards at the Sandton Convention Centre on 9 April 2015. He urged the country’s entrepreneurs to think of their businesses as building blocks of social development, and not merely as vehicles for earning profits.

Everything CFOs need to know about social media risk

Pornography, obscenity, piracy and your business - there are some things you wish you didn't know about social media...

The right solution - keeping the wholesale retail industry focused

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Newsletter: Firtstand's Sizwe Nxasana on CFOs | Top class entertainment at CFO Awards | 6 step Financial systems guide for CFOs | Terrorism a risk for CFOs eyeing African opportunities?

CFO South Africa Newsletter | Thursday 9 April Dear CFO South Africa Member, Read Exclusive CFO South Africa Articles Top class entertainment at CFO Awards With this year's CFO Awards coming closer each day, we are excited to announce that we have secured the services of some top class entertainers to enliven the evening: Jacques Lagesse and Cristina Rodrigues. Together with chairman Vusi Thembekwayo, they will be the main voices on the podium during the gala dinner - in between the announcements of the awards of course! Editorial: Is terrorism a risk for CFOs eyeing African opportunities? With almost 150 students mercilessly massacred at the university of Garissa in Eastern Kenya last week, terrorism is suddenly top of mind again for (South African) businesses looking to move (further) into the continent. Within a week after the successful and democratic elections in Nigeria, the pendulum has swung back with a vengeance. Tourists are shocked and are cancelling their Kenyan safaris in droves, although places like the Masai Mara have been out of bounds for the Islamic extremists of al-Shabaab so far. Should CFOs show similar caution? Casper Troskie, Liberty: communication is key for modern CFO “It is very important to understand how investors see the business, because if you don’t listen to them, you might miss important trends,” says Casper Troskie, Financial Director at financial services company Liberty. In an exclusive interview with CFO South Africa Troskie shares valuable advice for ambitious Chartered Accountants, recalls his proudest moments and elaborates on the culture change that Liberty has embarked on. “It has been a great journey, but I see the task only as a third of the way done.” Read more exclusive articles on cfo.co.za - Exclusive: FirstRand's retiring CEO Sizwe Nxasana on CFOs, SAICA, B... Join the annual CFO Awards South Africa & Conference Thursday May 14th at the Summer Place, Johannesburg 15.30 - 23.00 The annual CFO Awards will be held at the beautiful Summer Place in Johannesburg. This prestigious event recognises CFOs of listed companies, large corporations, parastatals and government institutions and awards them for outstanding performance and leadership. The gala dinner brings together South Africa’s top finance professionals. It is an opportunity to celebrate excellence and engage in conversations about the culture, pitfalls and possibilities of continuously exceeding expectations. Among the speakers are the Doyen of Corporate Governance, in South Africa and internationally Professor Mervyn King, the internationally renowned Martijn Aslander from the Netherlands, the Auditor General, Kimi Makwetu and one of the best motivational speakers and keynote speakers alive today, Vusi Thembekwayo. Designed to demonstrate thought leadership, extend professional networks and help businesses to grow, this event sets the bar for financial leadership on the African continent. It is open to all CFOs and Financial Directors. Program: 15.30 Opening CFO Awards 2015 & Reception 16.30 Sessions - Strategy Execution - High Performance Team - Finance Transformation - Public Finance - Moving into Africa - Master Class "The exponential organisation" 18.00 Pre Dinner drinks 18.30 CFO Dinner & Awards - CFO of the Year Award - Public CFO of the Year Award - Young CFO of the Year Award - Moving into Africa Award - Finance & Technology Award - Transformation & Empowerment Award - Finance Transformation Award - Strategy Execution Award - Compliance & Governance Award - High Performance Team Award 22.00 After Drinks CFO South Africa invites you to buy a table at the CFO Awards, attend the CFO Conference or become our partner. Places are limited, so book now to avoid disappointment. Register now here. Principal Sponsor CFO Awards: Continuous Professional Development Points Did you know all events of CFO South Africa are eligible for SAICA CPD points? By attending CFO South Africa's events and training courses you will stay compliant. CFO Awards 2015 - Reserve your table now Buy a table for the CFO Awards and meet South Africa's leading CFOs, demonstrate thought leadership, extend your network and develop business. You are seated with CFOs and finance directors from among others Advtech, Allianz, Aveng, Barclays, Cashbuild, City of Johannesburg, Eskom, EOH, FNB, G4S, Gauteng Treasury, Hollard, Liberty, Nedbank, Nissan, Novartis, Old Mutual, Sasol, Standard Bank, Telkom, Transnet and Woolworths. You are also more than welcome to join the CFO Conference preceding the CFO Awards dinner with your colleagues. Don't wait too long, first come, first served. Become a partner or attend with your finance team and RSVP here. For more information check out CFOAwards.co.za. Upcoming CFO South Africa Events Join the CFO Events with inspiring hosts and experts who will share their insights and experiences with you. Register now for these events and boost your company, network, career and knowledge. CFO South Africa Events in 2015 Mar 19 Johannesburg | Moving into Africa May 14 Johannesburg | CFO Awards 2015 June 25 Johannesburg | Corporate Finance July 30 Johannesburg | Corporate Growth Sept 17 Johannesburg | Digital Transformation Nov 19 Johannesburg | Risk, Compliance & Control Register now for one of the upcoming CFO South Africa Events. Please note that all our CFO South Africa events are for senior financial executives. CFO South Africa offers Platinum memberships to CFOs and finance directors. For more information please have a look here and contact Jurrien Morsch at [email protected] Stay connected with CFO South Africa Follow CFO South Africa on Twitter and LinkedIn Stay up to date on what is happening in the world of finance by following us on Twitter @CFOSouthAfrica and LinkedIn. Next to that you can keep track of newly published interviews with CFOs and CEOs. Feel free to contact us Any suggestions or comments are welcome. Kind Regards, Melle Eijckelhoff Director CFO South Africa | [email protected] To control which emails you receive from CFO South Africa, please change your email preferences at cfo.co.za by selecting under settings "I do not want to receive emails from CFO South Africa | Finance Professionals South Africa"

Editorial: Is terrorism a risk for CFOs eyeing African opportunities?

With almost 150 students mercilessly massacred at the university of Garissa in Eastern Kenya last week, terrorism is suddenly top of mind again for (South African) businesses looking to move (further) into the continent. Within a week after the successful and democratic elections in Nigeria, the pendulum has swung back with a vengeance. Tourists are shocked and are cancelling their Kenyan safaris in droves, although places like the Masai Mara have been out of bounds for the Islamic extremists of al-Shabaab so far. Should CFOs show similar caution?

Top class entertainment at CFO Awards

With this year's CFO Awards coming closer each day, we are excited to announce that we have secured the services of some top class entertainers to enliven the evening: Jacques Lagesse and Cristina Rodrigues. Together with chairman Vusi Thembekwayo, they will be the main voices on the podium during the gala dinner - in between the announcements of the awards of course!