SAICA welcomes Akash Singh as the National Council President

Johannesburg, 9 April 2024 - We are thrilled to announce the appointment of Akash Singh as the new President of the National Council and ex officio member of the Board.

Akash is taking over the reins from Kobus Swanepoel, and we thank him for his unwavering support and dedication to SAICA and the accounting profession throughout his tenure.

Kobus Swanepoel: A Pillar of Dedication to academic excellence

We are particularly grateful to Kobus for his exceptional leadership as the outgoing President of the National Council. Kobus's distinguished career spans over 25 years in academia, and his contributions to SAICA are immeasurable. His passion for the profession is evident in his extensive involvement on various committees, including his previous role as the Initial Professional Development Committee, and his role as a director of the Thuthuka Education Upliftment Fund Board. Kobus's efforts in shaping the APC process and his commitment to continuous professional development have been instrumental in ensuring the future success of our members. We look forward to his continued contribution as he continues to serve as a member of Council.

Akash: A Leader with a Distinguished Career

Akash brings a wealth of experience and vision to SAICA. A seasoned Chartered Accountant and respected business leader, he also holds an MBA in Strategy, complementing his accounting expertise. Currently, Akash serves as the CEO of Sigma International, where he has extensive experience in business restructuring, turnarounds, and strategic development.

Beyond Qualifications: A Passion for Business and Economic Growth

Akash's commitment extends far beyond his qualifications. He actively volunteers his time in the business community, having served as the Past President of the Durban Chamber of Commerce and Industry, the largest metropolitan chamber in Africa. His leadership roles include Council member of the South African Chamber of Commerce (SACCI) and co-chair of the KZN Economic Council. He currently serves as the President of SAICA’s Eastern Regional Council.

At SAICA, Akash has been instrumental in championing the Economic Blueprint, a cornerstone of our strategic pillar for economic and social relevance, reflecting his deep passion for economic development and transformation.

Akash's success at Sigma International is a testament to his ability to drive business growth and sustainability. Over 20 years, he has led the improvement, support, and turnaround of over 3,000 businesses across various industries. His strategic thinking and innovative approach have been pivotal in nurturing small, medium, and large enterprises.

Prior to Sigma International, Akash honed his experience at PricewaterhouseCoopers and Nedcor & BoE Bank, solidifying his reputation in the financial sector.

As the former President of SAICA's Eastern Region, Akash has already demonstrated his unwavering commitment to the accounting profession and SAICA's goals. His exceptional experience, strategic vision, and passion for economic growth position him uniquely to lead SAICA into a new era of excellence and innovation.

Patricia Stock, SAICA CEO says “we are confident that under Akash's leadership, SAICA will continue to thrive and serve the evolving needs of the accounting profession in South Africa”.

About SAICA

The South African Institute of Chartered Accountants (SAICA), South Africa’s pre-eminent accountancy body, is recognised as the world’s leading accounting institute and is home to the leading CA designation in the world The Institute provides a wide range of support services to more than 50 000 members and associates who are chartered accountants (CAs[SA]), as well as associate general accountants (AGAs[SA]) and accounting technicians (ATs[SA]), who hold positions as CEOs, MDs, board directors, business owners, chief financial officers, auditors and leaders in every sphere of commerce and industry, and who play a significant role in the nation’s highly dynamic business sector and economic development. the

Chartered Accountants are highly valued for their versatile skill set and creative lateral thinking, that's why all of the top 100 Global Brands employ Chartered Accountants.

SAICA is a member of Chartered Accountants Worldwide (CAW), a global family that connects over 1,8 million fellow Chartered Accountants and students in more than 190 countries. Together, we support, develop, and promote the role of Chartered Accountants as trusted business leaders, difference-makers, and advisers.

SAICA Media Contacts

Kgauhelo Dioka,
***@saica.co.za
Project Manager: Communications
SAICA Brand Division

Renette Human,
***@saica.co.za
Project Director: Communications
SAICA Brand Division