See full profile: Benoni Accountant - Dean Henning
Were you always planning to be an accountant and why?
Yes, being a Chartered Accountant was always a dream of mine. I was always exposed to business from a young age and my mentor steered me towards becoming a Chartered Accountant. This was the best profession to go for so that I could have a well rounded view of business. Entrepreneurial, a mind for compliance and strategy coupled with my CA produces pure value for any prospective client.
When meeting with clients do they mostly come to your own premises or do you mostly go their theirs?
Both, this depends on client preference
What is your preferred mode of communication with your clients?
Email, Phone, Face to Face, WhatsApp
Have you ever done an online video call with a client?
Yes
What do you love most about accounting?
Numbers don't lie. Accounting allows for compliance, a well run business, good strategic direction and a profitable future.
Would you recommend accounting as a career for school-leavers, and why?
Yes, accounting opens up a world of various industries. Diverse clients and cultures. Profitable business partners. With the digital world growing at a fast rate being an accountant allows you to work remotely and travel the world while servicing your client base.
What qualities should South African business people be looking for in their accountant?
Trust. Compliance focused. Strategic thinkers.
What is the biggest challenge facing accountants today?
Adaption to the fast changing digital landscape. Espresso Accounting and BILHEN Advisory have solved this challenge.
What aspects of accounting do you focus on most?
Tax. Legislative Compliance. Reviews. Financial Statements. Bookkeeping. Financial Management.
Describe your average client:
Turnover of at least R1 million per annum
How far away from your premises is your furthest client?
2000 kms
From your accounting experience, if you could cite one of the biggest reasons SME's in SA fail, what would it be?
Poor Compliance.
What accounting software do you like best?
SageOne and Xero
What other software, online services or apps do you use?
Receipt Bank. Waveapps.
Do you think the coming wave of automation in the next few years will steal some accounting jobs and why/why not?
Yes. Accountants will need to adapt to the new digital age of providing more streamlined and affordable services. The artificial intelligence of my company Espresso Accounting is fully adapted to the digital landscape. There will however still need to be a personal touch that clients want. This builds trust. Hence our digital accounting practice is backed by a quality control hub and group company called BILHEN Advisory. This makes sure that the clients still get the touch of personal attention they deserve.
What is your opinion on Bitcoin?
Crypto is an exciting landscape. Maybe a one world currency is imminent? Who knows.
What do you enjoy doing in your spare time?
I have a non profit company called Bambelela which is focused on the conservation of Vervet monkeys. I enjoy being in nature making sure I contribute to the sustainability of Africa. http://www.bambelela.org.za/
What is the most interesting thing on your bucket list?
To start a non profit company for the support of single mothers and widows.
What has your experience been on FindanAccountant?
Brilliant!
See how our other local South African accountants have answered the above questions.
