See full profile: Ballito Accountant - Craig Hook
Were you always planning to be an accountant and why?
Originally a forester so somewhat of a 180 degree to eventually qualify as a CA at the tender age of 36.
When meeting with clients, do they mostly come to your own premises or do you mostly go their theirs?
No set rule - whatever works for both.
What is your preferred mode of communication with your clients?
Phone, Face to Face.
Have you ever done an online video call with a client?
Yes.
What do you love most about accounting?
Every debit has an equal and opposite credit.
Would you recommend accounting as a career for school-leavers, and why?
Most definitely as you can branch into most commercial and financial managerial positions.
What qualities should South African business people be looking for in their accountant?
Openness, honesty and integrity.
What is the biggest challenge facing accountants today?
Client management fraudulent activity - most difficult to detect.
What aspects of accounting do you focus on most?
Operational excellence.
Describe your average client:
Across sectors, mid-tier with high growth prospects.
How far away from your premises is your furthest client?
Based in Melbourne, Australia.
From your accounting experience, if you could cite one of the biggest reasons SMEs in SA fail, what would it be?
Failure to manage cash flow.
What accounting software do you like best?
Sage Business.
What other software, online services or apps do you use?
Xero.
Do you think the coming wave of automation in the next few years will steal some accounting jobs and why/why not?
Processing and some analytics however the interpreter and client relationships will always exist.
What is your opinion on Bitcoin?
High risk.
What do you enjoy doing in your spare time?
Golf, gym.
What is the most interesting thing on your bucket list?
Nordic lights cruise.
What has your experience been on FindanAccountant?
All good thanks.
See how our other local South African accountants have answered the above questions.
