See full profile: Dan Pienaar Accountant - Anrich van Nieuwenhuizen
Were you always planning to be an accountant and why?
Yes, I was extremely passionate about accounting, corporate tax and personal as well as business finance since a very young age. I pursued my dreams and made them a reality. In 2023 I started my own firm - Beyond Balance Accounting.
When meeting with clients, do they mostly come to your own premises, or do you mostly go to theirs?
I mostly conduct virtual meetings with my clients as our client base is widespread across South Africa.
What is your preferred mode of communication with your clients?
Email, Phone, WhatsApp
Have you ever done an online video call with a client?
Yes
What do you love most about accounting?
The satisfaction of balance. It serves us with pleasure to be able to assist clients and balance their needs with statutory requirements.
Would you recommend accounting as a career for school-leavers, and why?
Most definitely. Accounting is a very rewarding career path, especially if you choose to start your own business! Accounting and tax services are inevitable for individuals and businesses alike, and due to this, it's a career that provides security and stability along with endless opportunities for growth.
What qualities should South African business people be looking for in their accountant?
Honesty, integrity, efficiency and thoroughness.
What is the biggest challenge facing accountants today?
The emergence of AI certainly is a challenge all bookkeepers and accountants are facing now and, in the future, however, I believe if one keeps on educating oneself, there is no need for concern, as this will allow for an "always-in-demand" approach to one's career.
What aspects of accounting do you focus on most?
Financial reporting, Taxation for individuals and companies, Payroll services & secretarial compliance management.
Describe your average client:
As we are extremely passionate about startup businesses and SME's, we tend to service an array of industries. Our clients are from all walks of life and we certainly do not put off a challenge - it keeps the work life interesting and balanced!
How far away from your premises is your furthest client?
We have clients all over South Africa, and even though our firm, which is mostly remote at this stage, is based in Bloemfontein, we have clients in Cape Town, Johannesburg and many more South African cities.
From your accounting experience, if you could cite one of the biggest reasons SMEs in SA fail, what would it be?
Improper planning. Once you start business, planning, whether day-to-day, strategic or financial, it is essential to plan properly and thoroughly. This is also where an accountant's role is effective. We believe that we're not just number punchers, but advisors and accounting psychologists. Accountants should guide business and individuals into success!
What accounting software do you like best?
Xero for Accounting, SimplePay for Payroll, Draftworx for Annual Financial Statements and DataGrows for practice management.
What other software, online services or apps do you use?
As we are firm believers of technology-driven accounting processes, we constantly seek to adhere to the growth of the industry. That being said, we strive to make use of any and all available technologically advanced software to make the accounting process as seamless as possible. We currently also make use of Xero-partnered software, InfoDocs and PayStack to get the most out of technological advancement.
Do you think the coming wave of automation in the next few years will steal some accounting jobs and why/why not?
Yes, the rise of automation and AI is inevitable. However, I do believe that at a certain level of accountancy, the industry cannot thrive without human intervention. Education is key. Keep on educating yourself to remain in the top tier of the field!
What is your opinion on Bitcoin?
Even though Bitcoin is very volatile, I believe with proper planning and market research & reflection, Bitcoin can be used to the benefit of the investor.
What do you enjoy doing in your spare time?
I am an avid reader of financial literacy as well as fiction. In addition, I like to travel and spend time with friends and family.
What is the most interesting thing on your bucket list?
I would love to have a 1-year trip around the world one day, exploring different cultures, countries, architecture and ways of life.
What has your experience been on FindanAccountant?
I only just started out, the registration process has been seamless, and I look forward to a long and healthy professional relationship with the FAA team!
See how our other local South African accountants have answered the above questions.
