South African top CFOs share their thoughts at CFO SA dinner

Tightening AI policies can create the very risks they are designed to prevent, as employees turn to unapproved tools when approved options fall short. Dheren Singh argues that CFOs need fit-for-purpose AI, stronger controls and clear accountability rather than blanket restrictions.

Are the qualities often associated with women in leadership truly gendered, or simply human? Drawing on more than two decades of experience, this candid perspective explores the power of empathy, empowerment, cultural awareness and unexpected allies, and why women must learn to know their room, guard their energy and lead with their whole selves.

As Africa's ICT sector accelerates digital transformation, finance will play a pivotal role in ensuring that growth is matched by meaningful decarbonisation. Innovative funding models, strategic partnerships and renewable energy investments will be essential to unlocking a low-carbon future while expanding connectivity across the continent.

As artificial intelligence transforms manufacturing, the greatest competitive advantage will not come from technology itself, but from finance leaders who know how to harness it.

Keeping up with IFRS updates as a CFO can feel wild because the standards evolve often, the documents are dense, and each change affects multiple parts of the reporting chain. The easiest way to stay on top of it is to break updates into three simple layers: what changed, why it changed, and what you actually need to do.

As finance leaders step beyond traditional stewardship roles, they are increasingly shaping enterprise strategy, driving digital transformation and helping organisations navigate uncertainty.