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Wesgro CFO Sandiso Gcwabe, 2024 winner of the Transformation and Empowerment Award at the CFO Awards, describes himself as principle-driven and is a firm believer that the right organisation with the right leader is key to being a success.

Neethling Prinsloo has joined Patagonia as chief financial and administration officer.

Mike Smits has been appointed as group managing director at payment solutions provider EFT Corporation, stepping out of his role as CFO.

On rejoining the CFO community after a two-year hiatus – and with 10 years in the CFO hotseat – I’m excited to share some of the reflections, and failings, that have led me to where I am today.

Juliette Da Silva has been appointed as CFO for Flight Centre Travel Group (FCTG) South Africa.

The voice of the younger generation was heard loud and clear at a recent CFO South Africa summit, held in the Mother City. JobJack's Zanli Botes and Oceana's Shaista Hendricks revealed how they believe finance leaders should build future-ready businesses for their employees.

A key part of Ashona Kooblall’s role as executive director and group financial officer at iOCO is value creation and driving strategy focus.

Michelle Isaacs has been appointed as CFO for BP Southern Africa.

Fraud incidents are rising worldwide. In Southern Africa, the Fraud Prevention Service reported a 32 percent increase in fraud cases for 2024. However, advanced software solutions can effectively combat this growing threat, enhancing profitability and supporting operational growth by streamlining processes to help companies bring products to market faster.

Top finance leaders got together in Cape Town to explore how emotional intelligence, effective communication and visionary leadership are redefining the role of the CFO.

Muneer Ismail will be joining FirstRand as group executive for corporate and enterprise banking.

Seacom has appointed Charl Slabbert as the group CFO.

Taryn Woodbridge, CFO at Mercedes-Benz South Africa, credits much of her success to having plenty of support and a willingness to grab opportunities.

Freddie Meyer has been appointed as CFO for renewable energy company Mulilo.

MD Joel Roerig says the newly launched brand and parent company of CFO South Africa positions the organisation for excellence and growth.

Nominations for the 2025 CFO Awards continue to pour in. Here’s your chance to showcase the finance executives who have shown impeccable leadership and innovation over the last year.

The Cape Town leg of the 2025 CFO South Africa summit will bring together some of the brightest finance minds in the country to delve into navigating the complexities of modern business, fostering collaboration and leading with agility in a rapidly changing business climate.

Capitec CEO and co-founder Gerrie Fourie will step down from his role in July 2025.

Open communication to all stakeholders is key, outgoing CFO: Southern Africa for Godrej Consumer Products Emmah Makomva believes. It is key to everything she does, including the success of the company’s recent ERP changeover.

Riaan Koppeschaar will continue in his role as finance director for Exxaro, following the appointment of seasoned mining executive Ben Magara as CEO, effective 1 April 2025.

I’ve had 10 years in the CFO seat and now after a short two-year hiatus, I am rejoining the CFO community. As I have been preparing to return, I have reflected on some of the challenges and experiences that led me to where I am today, and I am excited to share ways in which to fail forward fast.

Gugulethu was previously the CFO for Sonae Arauco, where she was the finance head for almost three years.

CFO South Africa spoke to Brad Wentzel, CFO of SPARK schools, about how the loss of a beloved pet led to some introspection on how stepping up as an executive may not always be possible, and how being vulnerable can also cultivate trust.

Kenny Fihla has been appointed as chief executive officer and executive director of Absa Group and Absa Bank. His appointment is effective from 17 June, subject to regulatory approval.

Santam Re & International’s newly appointed CFO Kush Padia is racking up a number of career milestones - from being the first CA in his family to reaching his goal of becoming a CFO just shy of turning 31. Now he is focused on making his mark at the globally recognised reinsurer.

An engaging group of leading CFOs got together at a CFO Dinner, where they debated issues of growth and sustainability amid geopolitical uncertainty, and how to deal with a new generation of finance professionals.

The Employment Equity (EE) Amendment Bill which came into effect on 1 January 2025 brings substantial changes that impact integrated annual reporting.

Luke Woodford has been appointed as chief financial officer for FirstRand: Broader Africa.

DRDGOLD’s head of finance Riaan Davel believes where there is mine waste, there is an opportunity for environmental rehabilitation. For the oldest mining company listed on the JSE, it’s about encouraging mining companies around the world to be more sustainable.

Averen Deonanan has been appointed as the CFO of Smollan.

TransUnion Africa CFO Sharon Naidoo delves into the future of business leadership where inclusivity, not just equality or equity, is the driving force.

Yusuf Bodiat, head of finance and investment for African Risk Capacity, shares how committing to regular exercise has helped him build better habits and improve his overall wellbeing.

Johan Snyman has taken on the role of chief financial officer at leading independent diamond mining company Petra Diamonds.

Being an entrepreneur is part of his DNA, says Anchor Capital CEO Peter Armitage, a firm believer in helping people solve problems.

He will assume the role of CFO and executive director effective 1 March 2025.

Through her collaborative and inclusive leadership style, Abigail Mukhuba has helped Sanlam to deliver on the new accounting standard.

Top CFOs Riaan Davel, Joe Ndala, Stephen Mahlare and Taryn Woodbridge explained how to discover a purpose-driven strategy.

The Summit highlighted the importance of driving financial performance while remaining mindful about the disparities in society.

A look at the first CFO summit of the year themed The Power of Purpose

Prof. Parmi Natesan, chief executive officer of the Institute of Directors South Africa says while both advisory and shadow boards might seem appealing at face value, they have no decision-making authority or accountability.

Vurhonga joins Bonitas with a strong background in auditing and governance.

CFO South Africa recently caught up with Afrimat CFO Pieter de Wit to find out more about his plans for 2025 following the completion of his tenure as integration officer in the acquisition of Lafarge South Africa.

In a world where organisations are increasingly expected to deliver value beyond profit, the 2025 CFO Power of Purpose Summit intends to help CFOs find value in a purpose-driven company.

Avashnee steps into a new role

Kush steps into the role effective 1 January 2025.

Over 20 years ago, Karl Dinkelmann, CA turned CEO of Nexus Data, kicked off a dynamic career in finance and data by studying accounting and informatics simultaneously. Since then, he has continued in this duality, more than once acting as CFO and CEO in the same breath.

The interim CFO and executive director will be made permanent effective 1 March 2025.

In a recent CFO South Africa webinar, Cornelius Coetzee, country manager of South Africa at Verto, a global financial technology firm, and Yusuf Bodiat, the head of finance and investment for African Risk Capacity, discussed the challenges and opportunities of fintech solutions for cross-border payments in Africa

Morgan believes that with the right training and support, employees can effectively deliver on their mandate and fully use the advanced tools at their disposal.

Komathie brings a wealth of public sector experience to the Innovation Hub.

Afrimat has appointed both Pieter de Wit as CFO and Andre Smith, as permanent deputy CFO.

Praneel Nundkumar, group CFO for Mr Price, is a results-oriented finance leader who champions a ‘commercial CFO’ approach. He believes that finance leaders must transcend traditional roles and actively partner with CEOs to drive strategic business outcomes.

Phryne Williams, founder and director of Capital Assignments explains why CFOs are an alluring and strategic choice for the role of CEO.

Charl Keyter, the chief financial officer at Sibanye-Stillwater, has been appointed as the interim chief commercial and development officer, effective immediately.

Tessa Meyer, CFO at African Group Lubricants (AG Lubricants), says 2024 has given her great stories to tell around the braai, and she hopes to add more next year.

DJ takes over the position after an eight-month personal break.

Okuhle Sidumane has her sights set on integration and good governance, as she begins her tenure as finance chief at the National Youth Development Agency (NYDA).

Nthanyiseni joins the education institution from the Durban University of Technology.

BCX’s finance chief, Cheryl-Jane (CJ) Kujenga, favours a “bottom-up” approach, and is a firm believer in understanding the details first. But her true leadership style lies in her unique take on work-life balance.

The annual CFO Survey has become tradition at CFO Day, and 2024 was no different. South Africa’s top finance leaders revealed how they use storytelling in their roles.

Harina steps into the role effective 1 January 2025.

MTN Group CFO Tsholofelo Molefe is passionate about connecting Africa. As a key leader at MTN, she has played a pivotal role in expanding the organisation’s reach across the continent and empowering communities through digital solutions.

Karly takes on the role at the retail, property, and telemedia group after the CFO steps down.

Data as a Compass empowers finance leaders to transform data into actionable insights. This South African guide combines leadership lessons, practical examples, technical know-how and ethics to help CFOs start, or enhance, their data-driven journey.

Ian’s interim role will assist with a smooth transition over the next six months while AECI a new permanent CFO.

From his early days in the retail industry to his current leadership role, Praneel Nundkumar, group CFO for Mr Price, has had the rare opportunity to tap into his full set of capabilities. Appointed at the age of 39, he is also the group’s youngest exco member.

Riaan Erasmus’s new role forms part of the succession plan and aims to optimise the group’s property portfolio.

Tessa Meyer, African Group Lubricants’ CFO, has been in finance for over 12 years. Her biggest lessons from being in finance include “always ask why” and making sure plans are not too set in stone.

Nontobeko Ndimande’s new position follows the CFO role at Johannesburg Social and Housing Company.

Longstanding Exxaro FD remains in finance role, but is now also interim CEO.

Thato Moloele to officially take CFO role from 1 February 2025.

After being interim CFO, Lihle Mbele is now permanent, and also appointed executive director of the health company.

Becoming a CEO also entails much more involvement in the overall strategy direction of the organisation, say CFOs-turned-CEOs Ramasela Ganda from Avis Southern Africa and Zeda Limited, Jaco Maritz from Syspro, and Yuresh Maharaj from Liberty, to find out more about the traits required for a successful transition from CFO to CEO.

Wiehann Joubert moves from acting CFO to permanent position.

Eskom CFO Calib Cassim elaborates on his leadership lessons from his 22-year tenure at the state utility.

Nominations for the 2025 CFO Awards are now open. Here’s your chance to showcase the finance executives who have shown impeccable leadership and innovation over the last year.

Boxer’s listing on the JSE is a first for a South African discount retailer and forms part of Pick n Pay’s turnaround, its CFO Lerena Olivier believes.

CFO South Africa spoke to CFOs-turned-CEOs Ramasela Ganda from Avis Southern Africa and Zeda Limited, Jaco Maritz from Syspro, and Yuresh Maharaj from Liberty, to find out more about the traits required for a successful transition from CFO to CEO.

Nico Marais assumes the role of interim CFO at Naspers and Prosus group, effective 2 December 2024.

Nick Thomson will be leaving Reunert in the 2025 financial year after he has completed a successful handover to his successor, who has not yet been announced.

As Men’s Health Month comes to a close, it’s important to acknowledge the unique challenges faced by male executives, particularly CFOs. While often seen as pillars of strength, these individuals may struggle with mental health issues due to the high-pressure nature of their roles.

TransUnion Africa acting CFO Jason Hawkins has been promoted to permanent CFO and vice president.

Discovery’s work culture thrives on collaboration, according to group CFO Deon Viljoen – and the design of its head office is a testament to this. And while the group offers various services, there is a golden thread that holds everything together.

The AfroCentric Group CFO will become the group CFO at AdvTech.

CFO Joanne Tanner’s journey into the water polo world is a result of caring mothers who started a water polo team to find a way to connect with their 10-year-old boys more.

Lindani Sidaki will start in his new role at the beginning of December.

Discovery’s decision to partner with OneStream for its major hardware infrastructure project came after a careful assessment of its outdated financial consolidation tool.

Tendai Matore will take on the acting CFO role at SABC on 30 November 2024.

Former CFO of Sygnia is now Prescient’s head of strategy.

JSE CFO Fawzia Suliman’s key to work-life balance is “deciding which cylinders should burn brightest” at a given time. This approach gives her both the discipline and mental fortitude to lead her team in the fast-paced world of stockbroking – and fulfil her passion for endurance sports.

In an unforgettable fireside chat at the 2024 CFO Awards, which took place at the Polo Room at the Inanda Club in Sandton, dancer and choreographer Musa Motha held the room spellbound with his story of courage, resilience and an unbreakable spirit.

The 2024 CFO Awards was a celebration of finance leaders and a commitment to nurture future finance leaders.

The 'Oscars of Finance' were yet again a resounding success. Hosted by South African comedian Nik Rabinowitz, top finance executives from around the country celebrated financial excellence with their peers. Here's a look at some of the incredible moments from last night's extravaganza!

Mike Davis, the CFO of Nedbank Group, has been voted CFO of the Year at the 2024 CFO Awards.

Marsh McLennan Africa, a leading insurance broker and risk advisor that prides itself on protecting their clients with data-driven solutions, will be sponsoring the CFO of the Year award at the 2024 CFO Awards.

This year's Strategy Execution Award recognises CFOs that have successfully adapted their organisations to the changing needs of the modern business world.

Founder and CEO of Decision Inc Nicholas Bell discusses the issues surrounding the introduction of a new AI system and how this would effect the company's operations.

Pieter van Buuren will focus on expanding the Mpumalanga-based company into the global market.

Old Mutual will be sponsoring the Transformation & Empowerment Award at his year’s ‘Oscars of Finance.’

At the 2024 Finance Indaba, financial reporting expert KC Rottok Chesaina taught a masterclass on the International Accounting Standards Board’s (IASB’s) new reporting standards.

Investec senior executive officer, Darryn Solomon has been in the banking industry for over three decades. CFO South Africa spoke to Darryn about a new chapter in his Investec career which involves relocating to the UAE and setting up a new branch in Dubai.

Jonathan Morley-Kirkhas has also been appointed as a director of the South Africa and Zambia-based company.

The leading provider of digital technologies and IT services is throwing its weight behind the CFO Awards. MakwaIT Technologies will be sponsoring the Young CFO of the Year Award at this year’s CFO Awards.

When the CFO position is still calling your name, you answer the call, as Old Mutual's chief financial officer, Casper Troskie did in his extended CFO duties.

The JSE was the place to be for leaders in the finance world on 23 October, as it was the venue of Workday’s Transforming Finance: The Future of Financial Services with Workday Financials. 

The Finance and Accounting Services Sector Education and Training Authority (FASSET) has as its vision to facilitate the achievement of world-class finance and accounting services skills. CFO SA asked its CFO, Zakariya Alli, about trends in the sector.

Ferdinand Nel, who has been deputy CFO at Copper 360 since April this year, will be taking up the CFO role.

Sitholile Sithole is a member of the outreach collaboration between CFO South Africa and the Allan Gray Orbis Foundation. This year, he attended his first Finance Indaba and reflects on his experience, which took place at the Sandton Convention Centre.

Calib Cassim, Eskom’s group CFO, describes the state utility’s dramatic turnaround and its plans for South Africa’s energy future.

She has built a career based on transforming the financial matters of our country’s public institutions. Devrani Moonsamy is sweeping away years of financial mismanagement to provide better financial systems and ensure clean audits. In October last year, she joined the Ombud Council.

AI should be seen as your new colleague, says Arthur Goldstuck.

Welmie Schoeman will be starting a new position as vice president of accounting and control at Vivo Energy.

Morne Grundlingh has been appointed to lead Netstar’s financial strategy.

You are the driver of a runaway tram that is headed down a narrow road where a dozen school children are playing. The only diversion is to the right, where an elderly woman is selling vegetables. Would you let the tram continue on its path or divert it?

After performing audits on a number of public entities, Angel Mhlambi-Nqikashe was eager to experience life on the other side - and understand why the institutions she was auditing were not implementing auditor recommendations. This was the first step towards her growth into the role of CFO at Mayibuye Transport Corporations.

Standard Bank CEO Funeka Montjane discusses the role of a CFO as a business integrator.

Sage VP of Finance for Africa and Middle East regions, Jordaan Burger talks about Sage's AI technology offerings.

Old Mutual has announced that Casper Troskie has agreed to remain as chief financial officer until April 2027.