June 2023 Issue

INSPIRING CHANGE BEYOND THE WORKPLACE As business leaders, we possess a unique ability to make a difference. Our roles extend far beyond the boardroom and financial statements, and we have the capacity to impact not only our organisations, but also society as a whole. Today, more than ever, it is crucial that we embrace this…

Profile – Vianca Pretorius CA(SA) – It’s all about balance

Having plied her trade as a national training manager, Vianca Pretorius CA(SA) swears by coaching and mentorship. The capacious lobby at SAICA’s national headquarters is a scene of veritable busyness: scouting videographers on the hunt for perfect shots, a keen make-up team on standby … and Vianca Pretorius, SAICA Top-35-Under-35 alumnus, is a picture of…

Focus: Unconventional skills can transform the public sector

Desperate times call for unconventional skills that can transform the public sector, writes Msizi Gwala, Project Director at SAICA. South Africa is facing a myriad of challenges. There are concerns acout audit outcomes, lack of accountability, world-leading inequality and service delivery protests. There were early signs of issues, such as the early struggles of state-owned…

Focus: The lack of internal controls negatively impacts service

Internal controls are the first line of defence against fraud, waste and abuse and help public sector institutions to deliver on their mandates. Furthermore, a robust control system, comprising effective internal control, risk management and audit, is fundamental to better governance, safeguarding of taxpayers’ money, and preserving public trust in government. However, the lack of…

Focus: Concerns around public finance management consulting

The use of consultants in public finance management and reporting has become a significant cost to the fiscus, with stakeholders such as the Auditor-General raising concerns about its sustainability. Management consulting is the practice of providing consulting services to organisations to improve their performance or assist in achieving organisational objectives. Organisations utilise the services of…