Profile: Sakhile Ndaba, Accountant
In our mission to build a strong accounting community in South Africa, Accounting Weekly highlights the journeys of finance professionals who make a significant impact in their fields. This edition features Sakhile Ndaba, an Accountant with 5-6 years of experience, whose passion for finance was inspired by a dedicated teacher and who continues to make strides in financial management and mentoring.
Sakhile, a night owl, begins his day at 7:00 AM with a stimulating breakfast and catches up on work-related updates. Outside of work, he enjoys helping grade 12 learners with accounting and playing chess.
Sakhile Ndaba
Accountant
Past Experience:
Acting Financial Manager at IZINGALABEZI GROUP: Aug 2024 - Present (4 months)
Accountant at IZINGALABEZI GROUP: Jul 2022 - Present (2 years, 5 months)
Director at Amaphephethe Consulting (Freelance): Sep 2022 - Present (2 years, 3 months)
Assistant Lecturer at Durban University of Technology: Jul 2023 - Dec 2023 (6 months)
Accounting Tutor at Randfontein High School: Jun 2022 - Jul 2022 (2 months)
Senior Financial Accountant Trainee at Exigo Professional Accountants: Jan 2022 - Jul 2022 (7 months)
Senior Accounting Clerk at Ramathe Chartered Accountants and Registered Auditors: May 2021 - Oct 2021 (6 months)
Lecturer at Tshwane University of Technology: Feb 2020 - Mar 2021 (1 year, 2 months)
Trainee Accountant at SNG Grant Thornton: Jan 2019 - Feb 2020 (1 year, 2 months)
Budget and Treasury Intern at Newcastle Municipality: Dec 2017 - Jun 2018 (7 months)
Academic Tutor at Tshwane University of Technology: Feb 2016 - Dec 2016 (11 months)
Trainee Accountant at RBCA & Associates Chartered Accountants and Registered Auditors: Jul 2014 - Aug 2015 (1 year, 2 months)
Qualifications:
Postgraduate Diploma in Accounting
Country of Residence:
South Africa
LinkedIn Profile:
Connect with Sakhile on LinkedIn
What time do you usually wake up on weekends?
7:00 AM
Are you an early bird or a night owl?
Night owl
How do you spend the first hour of your day?
I have a stimulating breakfast, then take some time to review work updates.
What sparked your interest in accounting or finance?
My interest in accounting began with my teacher, Miss Makhanya, whose passion made me appreciate the subject's real-world impact and importance.
Can you share some key career milestones or defining moments?
Being promoted to Acting Financial Manager was a turning point, showcasing my capacity for leadership and strategic decision-making.
What is your role within your company’s finance department?
I manage financial records, ensuring compliance and accuracy, and oversee tax preparation while advising on financial strategies.
How do you contribute to the overall financial strategy of the business?
I support financial strategy through budgeting, forecasting, and data analysis, aligning with the company's strategic goals and promoting sustainable growth.
What is one of the biggest challenges you’ve faced in your role? How did you overcome it?
Handling a complex audit with limited resources was challenging. I overcame it by prioritizing critical areas and fostering strong team communication.
What tools or strategies do you use to manage the financial operations of the company effectively?
I use Xero for daily financial tasks and Draftworx for reporting, tax compliance, and audit preparations.
Share your strategies for staying balanced, especially during busy periods.
I prioritize tasks, focus on high-priority items, and set realistic goals. Self-care, like exercise and reading, is also important for balance.
What do you enjoy outside of work?
I assist grade 12 learners with accounting and enjoy playing chess with my boys.
Do you mentor or support other team members in the finance department?
Yes, I coach team members, share best practices, provide feedback, and encourage continuous learning.
What advice would you give to someone aspiring to work in a finance department?
Develop technical proficiency, and analytical skills, and commit to continuous learning to stay updated on industry changes.
What’s your favourite quote or mantra that motivates you?
In the middle of difficulty lies opportunity. - Albert Einstein
Share a leadership lesson or a piece of advice that’s been valuable to you in your career.
Active listening is crucial for leadership. It builds trust, encourages collaboration, and allows for diverse perspectives in decision-making.
What’s something surprising about you that isn’t in your professional bio?
I enjoy experimenting with new recipes and unique food combinations.
If you could have any superpower to help you in your job, what would it be?
The ability to forecast financial trends with absolute accuracy.
What’s your go-to strategy for staying productive during long workdays?
I use time-blocking techniques like the Pomodoro Technique, take short breaks, and keep snacks nearby to stay energized.
If you could relive one day from your career, which day would it be and why?
The day I was promoted to Acting Financial Manager was a milestone that boosted my confidence and motivated me to pursue greater achievements.
Sakhile’s story reflects his dedication to financial management, passion for teaching, and commitment to continuous growth. Connect with Sakhile on LinkedIn to follow his journey and achievements.
Profile sponsored by the Chartered Institute for Business Accountants
Not yet a professional designated accountant? CIBA is the professional body for all accountants. We offer designations for each stage of your finance career: BookkeeperFinancial AdministratorFinancial AccountantFinancial ManagerChief Financial OfficerAccountant-In-Practice.