Insight

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.

Today’s business environment is no longer defined by a single shock but by ongoing geo-political events shaping the macro-economic environment. Businesses are operating amid a polycrisis, with renewed uncertainty in the Middle East adding pressure to an already challenging environment.

Most companies keep the CEO and CFO in separate seats for good reason. Yet in emerging markets, the distance between growth and durability has always been an illusion—one that punishes misalignment quickly and quietly. Here, Adrian Maizey, CEO and CFO of Rand Capital, unpacks what holding both perspectives taught him about building where currency volatility, infrastructure gaps, and thin capital markets make the rules.

As funding volatility, regulatory complexity and persistent misconceptions intensify pressure on South Africa’s NGO sector, CFOs are stepping into a more strategic role than ever before. A sustainable funding model for 2026 and beyond now demands full cost recovery, diversified income streams, sophisticated compliance and technology-driven financial management.

Leadership is not unlike medicine: a responsible doctor does not prescribe treatment without a proper diagnosis. In business, urgency and expectation often tempt CFOs to act before fully understanding the problem.

Deloitte Africa’s Andries van den Berg, Financial Transformation Leader, and Anaplan EMEA MD Dayne Turbitt show how connected finance breaks down silos, links strategy to measurable value, and equips CFOs to navigate uncertainty with confidence.

CFOs need to exercise their pivotal power to influence organisational strategy and to ensure that they curate and enforce pre-eminent mechanisms for sustainability and encourage active economic participation of all in the ecosystem.

Gender-based violence (GBV) has become a defining corporate risk, demanding strategic financial leadership. CFOs are now central to reframing GBV as a material risk, a governance priority and a fiduciary obligation. Their role extends far beyond compliance, shaping how organisations quantify, manage and mitigate both the human and economic costs of GBV, writes Dumisani Dlamini, CFO at the Soul City Institute for Social Justice.

In a tightening economic climate, CFOs are being pushed to deliver more with less, and the message is clear: cash is king. Financial leaders must shift from static, budget-focused planning to a dynamic, cash-driven approach that prioritises agility, innovation and disciplined cost management.

In the high-stakes world of finance, where precision and performance often overshadow personal wellbeing, mental health is not a luxury, it is a fiduciary duty. Experience within senior finance roles shows that strong support systems, including family, mentors and peer networks, can anchor a leader through intense professional pressure. These structures offer perspective, guidance and connection, ensuring that wellbeing is treated as a strategic imperative rather than an afterthought.

Mental health is a critical foundation for effective financial leadership, influencing decision-making, resilience and long-term performance. Prioritising well-being isn’t a soft add-on, it’s an essential part of leading sustainably in high-pressure finance environments.

As digital transformation reshapes retail, cash still plays a vital role in store operations. For CFOs, the challenge is managing this complexity efficiently. Modern cash automation solutions, ranging from smart safes to front-office recyclers, offer a holistic way to streamline cash handling, minimise risk and improve financial visibility.

A session themed Connected planning at the 2025 Finance Indaba highlighted the struggle of endless spreadsheets, disconnected teams and the constant scramble to align numbers across departments that finance leaders face.

Modern finance leaders need to concentrate less on spreadsheets and more on the people who make up their team – and themselves.

Whether acquiring physical assets, consultancy firms, or building in-house solutions, return on investment remains the critical measure of success.

At the 2025 Finance Indaba, Acumatica’s regional head Bernard Ford delivered a thought-provoking session on how artificial intelligence is reshaping business at lightning speed, and why CFOs must act now to harness its power rather than fear it.

Analytix Engine CEO Pravin Burra led a session at the 2025 Finance Indaba where he invited the audience to think of revenue assurance as a science.

During the session themed Beyond compliance: The strategic value of B-BBEE, Jodi Joseph, CEO of BEE123, engaged the audience at the fully packed 2025 Finance Indaba in a live poll to gauge their perceptions of B-BBEE, asking attendees to share the first word that came to mind when they heard the word B-BBEE.

Mike Davis, group CFO at Nedbank, delivered the keynote address at the 2025 Finance Indaba, where he reflected on how resilience remains essential to the future of finance.

CFOs are under pressure to show how social impact translates into financial value. According to Gita Maharaj, CEO of Impact Institute, the challenge is to measure impact without reducing people and communities to numbers. The future of finance lies in bridging profit and purpose with integrity.

Proposed US tariffs present both direct and indirect risks for South African companies, forcing CFOs to reassess demand exposure, transfer pricing and long-term capital investment strategies.

Kim Bartman (KB), Kutula Miyeki (KM) and Saffiya Ismail (SI), EAs to top South African CFOs, reflect on what skills will keep EAs ahead in an AI-powered workplace. They point to AI mastery, data literacy and adaptability, and balancing tech know-how with people skills.

As artificial intelligence continues to transform the modern workplace, Kim Bartman (KB), Kutual Miyeki (KM) and Saffiya Ismail (SI), executive assistants to three of South Africa’s top CFOs are finding themselves at the centre of a profound shift,from task-driven support to strategic partnership.

CFO Brenda Baijnath’s story is not just about breaking glass ceilings, it’s about reimagining the room entirely. From navigating cultural expectations to leading the financial strategy at Motus Holdings, Brenda’s journey is marked by courage, clarity and a fierce commitment to authenticity.

CCI South Africa CFO Anusha Ramraj offers practical advice for women building careers in the business process outsourcing (BPO) sector. From embracing unexpected opportunities to advocating for others, she shares insights on growth, mentorship and representation in leadership.

Jane Waters and Tracey Rowe, co-founders of fractional HR services company 52.com, explain why business is not just about the numbers for CFOs – it’s about unlocking the value of people.

In the workshop and in the workplace, rebuilding isn’t just about parts or performance, it’s about identity. Brad Wentzel, finance chief of SPARK Schools, draws parallels between restoring a motorcycle and reimagining a personal brand, offering reflections on craft, authenticity and the power of intentional reinvention.

Transitioning from professional services into a corporate CFO role reveals that technical expertise is only part of the equation. True success lies in emotional intelligence, collaborative leadership and a deep understanding of organisational culture.

Global markets are now driven more by political shifts than economic fundamentals, says Rico Ernst, CEO of Aurora Capital SA. With US president Donald Trump’s return reshaping trade dynamics, Rico believes CFOs must move beyond traditional models and manage risk through geopolitical awareness, liquidity planning and diversified portfolios.

The transfer pricing environment in South Africa is changing rapidly, influenced by global regulatory changes, economic challenges and advancements in technology. And CFOs have a role to play in keeping their companies ahead of these shifts, ensuring compliance and effective risk mitigation.

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.

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.

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

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

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

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

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.

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.

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.

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.

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

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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

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.

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.

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.

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.

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?

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.

Earlier this year, the Re-defining finance for a sustainable world white paper, the latest iteration of AICPA & CIMA’s Future of Finance global research programme, was released, . The white paper highlights that the accounting and finance profession is unequivocally changing, moving away from traditional rules-based approaches and towards a more inclusive, expansive and value-creation mindset, writes Tariro Mutizwa, ACMA, CGMA, vice president – Africa at AICPA & CIMA, together as the Association of International Certified Professional Accountants.

The financial integrity of a company often lies in the hands of an independent board of directors known as the audit committee. As chief financial officers, it is important to know your role when it comes to dealing with this committee, writes Vodacom CFO Raisibe Morathi.

At Executive Day 2024, Vodacom CEO Shameel Joosub took attendees through what it takes for successful exco collaboration during an insightful panel discussion.

Executive Day 2024, held at the lively Melrose Arch in Johannesburg on 5 September 2024, lived up to its promise as an immersive simulation experience for South Africa's brightest financial minds and their HR and IT counterparts in the C-suite.

Sandra Villars, partner, financial services at management consultancy firm Oliver Wyman writes that financial services can no longer ignore the importance of sustainability practices.

The report also marks 10 years of the company’s existence.

South Africa’s retirement savings landscape is poised for a major transformation with the introduction of the new two-pot retirement system on 1 September 2024. Shaheed Mohamed, head of group savings and investments at Allan Gray, delves into these critical changes.

The move from Jibar to Zaronia is bringing about a big change in South Africa's financial sector. The effects of this move on contracts and financial risk are something CFOs need to be aware of.

As we continue to celebrate women’s month, we reflect on the country’s index when it comes to women empowerment in strategic fields and positions.

Former CFO and current associate director of Kearney Jo-Ann Pohl shares insights into how CFOs can successfully manage an ESG strategy internally, across departments and corporate working groups.

A poll conducted at the inaugural event shows what’s top of mind for South Africa’s financial leaders.

Poor infrastructure challenges are plaguing SA Inc, but CFO D’Shorne Human unpacks how SAFCOL’s diversifying strategy is helping the SOC continue crucial business operations, like automation and diversification.

SoluGrowth business executive Berna Botha provides an overview of the challenges that keep CFOs up at night, as well as trends rapidly reshaping the finance profession.

CFO Brad Wentzel explains the need to practise patience when leading finance teams, especially during difficult and chaotic times.

Eddie will be taking up the CEO role at USN after 13 years at TWK, where he played a crucial role in the company's recovery and restructuring.

PwC South Africa Senior Economist Christie Viljoen looks at the effect of foreign investment on our economy.

Syspro's EMEA head of finance Aucamp van der Schyff unpacks the Manufacturing CFO Survey, which reveals that the role of the hybrid CFO is continuously evolving in the sector.

With South Africa among the bottom 20 percent of countries when it comes to social impact effectiveness, Kearney experts unpack how CFOs can align purpose with profit to improve the “S” in their ESG impact.

Future of work guru Ray de Villiers says that, as the role of finance teams changes due to generative AI taking over their number-crunching responsibilities, it’s up to CFOs to make sure their people understand what the new future will look like, and the power they have to impact it.

Brad Wentzel reveals his strategy for restoring a motorcycle, and how businesses can do the same to ensure success.

Stabilising debt, funding critical services and responding to the promises made in the SONA are among the many balls South Africa’s finance minister must juggle during his budget speech, reveals KPMG South Africa lead economist.

The CFO Centre’s Rowan de Klerk reveals how CFOs can remain optimistic in the new year despite the challenging business environment South Africa is in.

South African Alistair Roman has been in the UK since 2009, building the skills needed to be a well-rounded and highly successful leader in a global community. Speaking with CFO South Africa, he talks about how he broadened his horizons across the pond, and why he is eager to bring it back to his home country.

AFMS Group’s Jamie Louw shares his top learnings from the multiple wins South Africa’s rugby team achieved this year, unpacking the five that resonated most with him as a CFO.

BDO South Africa COO of Business Restructuring Services and former CFO Buhle Hanise provides six reasons why other finance executives should embrace business rescue as a tool to secure the future of a struggling organisation.

Frey’s Food CFO Brad Wentzel shares the similarities between disassembling a motorcycle and deconstructing a business strategy.

CFO Louis Naude reveals the top six considerations CFOs need to keep in mind when they are looking to invest in new opportunities.

Boston Consulting Group experts Nihmal Marrie, Caio Anteghini and Isme Oosthuizen stress the transformative potential adopting generative AI can have on finance functions.

Global CFO Alvin Liew shares his top tips on how finance leaders should go about looking for and securing international jobs.

BDO’s Johann Benadé reveals how PBO donations will enhance transparency and impact.

Corporate Traveller’s Bonnie Smith unpacks the skills that make a great leader in uncertain times.

CMS South Africa’s Zaakir Mohamed unpacks CFOs' role in protecting business from exposure to crime syndicates.

Brad Wentzel shares his final phase of becoming Frey’s Food Brands’ CFO, where he starts to implement change.

CFO Megan Pydigadu explains how she helped create awareness for people with disabilities in the workplace.

AFMS Group CFO Jamie Louw reveals how leaving behind your scarcity mindset can create new opportunities.

BDO SA’s Louis van Manen unpacks how CFOs can benefit from their tax obligations.

Nashua Kopano MD Chris Kruger reveals how CFOs can benefit from the power crisis through ESG strategies.

TransUnion CFO Sharon Naidoo reveals how to survive a recession with the right purpose, vision and mission.

The CFO Centre’s Matthew Comins explains why coaching from experience can benefit CFOs.

It’s time for South African business priorities to shift from the social to the environmental considerations of ESG.

CFO Brad Wentzel shares a roadmap on how to ready your organisation for its change journey.

Transunion CFO Sharon Naidoo unpacks how to create a smooth sail in rough seas by investing in untapped markets.

AFMS Group’s Jamie Louw reveals the essential skills every CFO needs to navigate complex business decisions.

Brad Wentzel shares his top tips from weeks eight to 25 of being the new CFO of Frey's Food Brands.

Metropolitan Retail CFO Etienne le Roux shares how he has married his passion with his leadership style.

CFO Taryn Augoustatos explains why financial inclusion is the driving force for Fintech startups.

Brad Wentzel shares his top five takeaways from his first seven days as the CFO of Frey's Food Brands.

FNB Botswana’s Luke Woodford shares some reflections on his personal 100-day plan for the CFO role.

Banks must keep up with disruptive technologies and new players, writes Charles Edelstein, CFO of Executive Placements.

Telecom expense management can reduce IoT connectivity costs by 30 percent, reveals Apex BI’s Neil Buckley.

Times 3 Technologies’ Stephen Howe explains that finance as a function has evolved right alongside technology.

Inyathelo FD Soraya Joonas says non-profit reporting needs to go beyond a tick-box exercise.

The SAP Africa CFO reveals why women shouldn’t leave their jobs anytime soon.

Like building a motorcycle, you need to follow a service manual to be a great leader, says CFO Brad Wentzel.

Shadrack Kubyane: My ‘accidental’ involvement with blockchain led to ESG reporting improvements.

When it comes to managing ESG, CFOs must adopt a readiness mindset.

Sage VP of finance Jordaan Burger unpacks the magic of financial storytelling.

Rowen Grierson explains that the next step in the evolution of the CFO role is becoming a chief futures officer.