Caseware
Brendon Marchelles Savoy
Audit, Tax And Accounting Specialist
Bellville
Summary
As a highly motivated and results-driven professional with over 15 years plus of diverse experience in the field of auditing, accounting, tax and finance to my role as a Chartered Accountant. My expertise is grounded in a BCom (Honours) in Chartered Accountancy, which has provided me with a strong foundation in auditing, tax, financial accounting, and finance principles, and regulatory compliance.
Throughout my career, I have consistently demonstrated my ability to deliver high-quality results through my problem-solving abilities and experience in auditing, finance and tax.
I am determined to continually exceed expectations. Willing to take on added responsibilities to achieve desired results.
I'm a driven and analytical individual with keen eye for financial details and collaborative spirit. Possesses deep understanding of financial analysis and planning, coupled with strong skills in budgeting and forecasting. Committed to optimizing financial performance and driving strategic growth.
Overview
15
15
years of professional experience
14
14
years of post-secondary education
1
1
Language
Work History
Audit, Accounting and Tax Specialist
DigiOutsource
Cape Town
08.2023 - Current
- Maintained strict compliance with all federal, state, and local tax laws while preparing client returns.
- Enhanced client satisfaction by providing thorough tax analysis and recommendations.
- Managed a diverse portfolio of clients, delivering high-quality service and fostering long-term relationships.
- Developed strong working relationships with key stakeholders improving communication ensuring smooth resolution issues as they arose.
- Streamlined tax preparation processes for increased efficiency and accuracy.
- Coordinated with external auditors during annual review process answering questions addressing concerns related firm''s tax function.
- Managed tax submissions and made sure all information complied with regulations.
- Reviewed financial statements for accuracy and integrity.
- Worked with individuals, trusts and companies to manage tax compliance and reporting needs.
- Maintained thorough and current understanding of applicable tax laws.
- Reviewed workpapers prepared by other staff members ensuring accuracy before finalizing documents for submission.
- Collected and submitted required tax payments.
- Resolved tax disputes by effectively communicating with relevant tax authorities representatives on behalf of clients.
- Prepared accurate and timely income tax returns for businesses
- Prepared tax returns, extensions, tax planning calculations, and write-ups for organizations and entities.
- Supported month-end closing process by preparing journal entries, account reconciliations, and variance analysis reports.
- Improved financial accuracy by performing detailed account reconciliations and resolving discrepancies.
- Coached, trained, and delegated tasks to team members to meet specific department goals.
- Enhanced financial reporting by creating clear and concise financial statements, providing insight into company performance.
- Streamlined accounting processes for efficiency, implementing automation tools and software solutions.
- Assisted auditors during annual audits, providing necessary documentation and addressing inquiries promptly.
- Reconciled account information and reported figures in general ledger by comparing to bank account statement each month.
- Trained new employees on accounting principles and company procedures.
- Prepared comprehensive financial statements for executive review, aiding in effective decision-making processes regarding growth opportunities and resource allocation.
- Drafted reports for leadership for use in strategic planning and decision making.
- Developed and presented financial data, financial statements and variance narratives to Board of Directors and Board of Trustees.
- Created and implemented effective accounting systems, best practices, and policies.
- Delivered timely internal reports to various stakeholders detailing key aspects of the company''s financial health, ensuring transparency and clear communication.
- Managed high volumes of financial activity in fast-paced, risk-based corporate environment.
- Prepared cash flow projections, cost analysis and monthly, quarterly and annual reports.
Senior in Charge Audit
SA Professional Consulting (Pty) Ltd
Wisconsin
10.2021 - 07.2023
- Demonstrated leadership skills by effectively managing multiple projects simultaneously while meeting strict deadlines.
- Ensured accurate financial reporting through rigorous testing of account balances and transactions.
- Assisted clients in implementing new accounting standards, minimizing disruption to their business operations.
- Coordinated with external auditors during annual reviews, ensuring a smooth flow of information between all parties involved.
- Communicated audit findings and recommendations clearly and concisely, helping clients understand their financial position and make informed decisions.
- Developed junior auditors by providing mentorship, guidance, and constructive feedback on their performance.
- Provided valuable insights into clients'' business operations through careful analysis of financial statements and supporting documentation.
- Strengthened client relationships by proactively addressing concerns and providing expert advice on complex accounting issues.
- Conducted comprehensive financial statement audits for clients in various industries, ensuring compliance with GAAP and regulatory requirements.
- Prepared high-quality audit workpapers, thoroughly documenting all tests performed and conclusions reached.
- Managed audit engagements from planning to completion, ensuring adherence to budgets and timelines.
- Streamlined audit processes using data analytics tools, resulting in increased productivity and reduced manual efforts.
- Reduced the likelihood of material misstatements by conducting thorough assessments of clients'' internal control systems.
- Improved internal controls by identifying weaknesses and providing recommendations for corrective actions.
- Collaborated with cross-functional teams to perform integrated audits addressing both financial and operational risks.
- Maintained up-to-date knowledge of industry trends, accounting standards, and regulatory requirements to provide top-quality service to clients.
- Increased client satisfaction through timely communication of audit findings and maintaining strong working relationships.
- Evaluated the effectiveness of internal control systems, identifying areas for improvement and recommending best practices.
- Enhanced audit efficiency by implementing risk-based audit methodologies and streamlined procedures.
- Identified opportunities for additional services beyond the scope of traditional audits, increasing firm revenue streams.
- Prepared working papers, reports and supporting documentation for audit findings.
- Identified management control weaknesses and provided value added suggestions for remediation.
- Provided journal entries and performed accounting on accrual basis.
- Tracked funds, prepared deposits and reconciled accounts.
- Collected and reported monthly expense variances and explanations.
- Maintained integrity of general ledger and chart of accounts.
- Compiled general ledger entries on short schedule with 100% accuracy.
- Trained new employees on accounting principles and company procedures.
- Cooperated with senior leaders to create operating budgets and initiate financial planning.
- Found tax solutions to complicated tax issues or errors from incorrect tax filings.
- Identified legal tax savings and recommended ways to improve profits.
- Collaborated with accounting manager to comply with governing bodies and limit regulatory risks.
Senior Financial Manager
Western Province Cricket Association (Cape Cobras)
Cape Town
06.2020 - 10.2021
- Managed a team of finance professionals to ensure timely financial reporting and compliance with regulatory requirements.
- Reduced financial risk by conducting thorough audits and implementing robust internal controls.
- Led the implementation of new accounting software systems to modernize internal processes and improve overall efficiency.
- Streamlined budgeting processes for increased operational efficiency and cost reduction.
- Championed change management initiatives within the finance department, fostering a culture of continuous improvement.
- Mentored junior staff members to elevate their skills and understanding of complex financial concepts.
- Implemented cost-saving measures, identifying opportunities for expense reduction across various departments.
- Conducted comprehensive risk assessments to proactively identify potential vulnerabilities in the organization''s finances.
- Delivered accurate revenue forecasts based on historical data analysis combined with market trends insights.
- Enhanced financial decision-making by developing comprehensive financial reports and analyses.
- Provided insightful recommendations on potential investment opportunities, supporting informed business decisions.
- Collaborated with cross-functional teams for successful execution of business initiatives and optimization of financial performance.
- Developed strategic financial plans aligned with organizational goals, ensuring long-term growth and sustainability.
- Navigated complex regulatory environments by staying current on industry standards and legislative changes impacting company finances.
- Oversaw the preparation of annual budgets, monitoring actual performance against projections to guide adjustments as needed.
- Spearheaded process improvements, driving increased accuracy in financial data collection and reporting.
- Established strong relationships with external stakeholders such as auditors, bankers, and tax authorities to ensure seamless collaboration.
- Negotiated favorable terms with vendors and suppliers, effectively managing procurement costs without compromising quality or service levels.
- Optimized cash flow management, implementing effective forecasting tools and strategies.
- Analyzed budgets, financial reports and projections for accurate reporting of financial standing.
- Oversaw administrative staffing by recruiting, interviewing and onboarding new personnel.
- Developed and presented financial data, financial statements and variance narratives to Board of Directors and Board of Trustees.
- Drafted reports for leadership for use in strategic planning and decision making.
- Created and implemented effective accounting systems, best practices and policies.
- Developed and transformed finance and operations team from transactional to analytical to provide enhanced business support.
- Managed accounting-team data using Casware, Draftworx, Pastel evolution and Pastel payroll, entering and organizing payroll, adjustments and monthly accrual information.
- Generated revenue and reduced costs by recommending innovative alternatives.
- Improved revenue compliance with corporate revenue standards.
- Created year-end audit book for CPA firm to control and reduce audit costs and accurately prepared year-end financial statements.
- Forecasted operating costs for scheduled projects by strategizing with other departments.
- Managed team of 10 finance and operations professionals, with day-to-day responsibility for contracting, order processing, forecasting, budgeting, reporting and analysis.
- Identified and investigated variances to optimize financial plans and forecasts.
- Prepared cash flow projections, cost analysis and monthly, quarterly and annual reports.
- Prepared internal and regulatory financial reports, balance sheets and income statements.
- Reviewed historical records, current operational data and forecasting information to identify and capitalize on system enhancement opportunities.
- Created and implemented effective accounting systems, best practices, and policies.
- Created strategies to increase client revenue and reduce client spending.
- Proposed and achieved cost savings by reducing product return rates.
- Managed high volumes of financial activity in fast-paced, risk-based corporate environment.
- Supported CEO with special projects and additional job duties.
- Utilized financial software to prepare consolidated financial statements.
- Trained and mentored finance team members, fostering a culture of continuous improvement and professional development within the department.
- Supervised billing, payroll, month-end, reconciliations, general ledger accounting, and numerous other financial processes.
- Negotiated contracts with vendors to keep costs under control.
- Enhanced internal control systems and procedures to mitigate risk and support opportunities.
- Developed strategic plans for day-to-day financial operations.
- Checked payroll, vendor payments, commissions and other accounting disbursements for accuracy and compliance.
- Improved overall financial reporting by streamlining control processes and reporting structures.
- Prepared local tax returns for individuals and businesses within required deadlines.
- Provided expert guidance to clients during audits, minimizing potential penalties and interest charges.
- Conducted thorough research to stay current on ever-changing tax laws, ensuring compliance for clients.
- Kept abreast of new legislation affecting taxation policies, providing proactive advice to clients accordingly.
- Calculated estimated tax payments.
- Conducted reviews of internal tax documentation, reducing errors related to missed tax benefits.
Audit Supervisor - Post Articles
MGI Bass Gordon - Cape Town
Cape Town
09.2016 - 09.2019
- Mentored junior auditors in best practices, fostering a culture of continuous learning and improvement within the department.
- Provided expert advice to management on accounting policies, financial reporting, and regulatory compliance matters.
- Streamlined audit processes for improved accuracy and timeliness of financial reporting.
- Aligned audit activities with business goals by incorporating strategic priorities into the annual audit plan.
- Assisted in developing annual budgets by providing insights into past performance trends and future projections.
- Managed complex audits from planning to completion, ensuring timely delivery of high-quality reports.
- Draft and review of financial statemehts
- Performed detailed reviews of financial statements for accuracy, completeness, and regulatory compliance requirements fulfillment.
- Interacted with internal staff and clients to improve operational knowledge of relevant tax issues and business implications.
- Analyzed complex client problems and generated targeted solutions that resolved outstanding issues while enhancing client business positions.
- Trained and mentored department staff on policies and procedures to establish strong foundation for client development and service activities.
- Coordinated, managed and implemented auditing projects and prepared for evaluation.
- Developed high-level knowledge of client business goals, policies and procedures to establish foundation for targeted problem solutions.
- Recommended changes to management regarding financial operations.
- Prepared working papers, reports and supporting documentation for audit findings.
- Reviewed accounts, resolved coding areas, and tracked recurring expenses for accrual entry.
- Trained new employees on accounting principles and company procedures.
- Maintained clear communication channels with stakeholders throughout the audit process, ensuring transparency and trust.
- Analyzed accounting systems for efficiency and effectiveness.
- Found tax solutions to complicated tax issues or errors from incorrect tax filings.
- Managed high-profile client engagements, ensuring timely completion and delivery of comprehensive audit reports.
- Assessed financial, accounting and operational controllership for both risks and opportunities.
- Streamlined audit procedures by leveraging advanced technology and software tools, resulting in increased efficiency.
- Reviewed workpapers prepared by audit staff members to ensure accuracy, clarity, and adherence to relevant auditing standards.
Audit Senior - Post Articles
MGI Bass Gordon - Cape Town
Cape Town
02.2014 - 08.2016
- Developed strong relationships with clients, addressing concerns promptly and providing timely updates on progress throughout the engagement process.
- Assisted in the preparation of audit reports, presenting findings clearly and concisely to senior management for review.
- Increased overall reliability of financial statements by performing detailed reviews of account reconciliations and supporting documentation.
- Provided guidance to junior auditors on best practices, fostering a collaborative working environment and enhancing team performance.
- Conducted walkthroughs of various business processes, gaining an in-depth understanding of operations while identifying potential control weaknesses.
- Draft financial statements
- Evaluated critical business systems and processes, identifying areas of potential risk exposure and offering recommendations to mitigate those risks.
- Stayed current on industry trends and accounting standards changes, ensuring that all audit activities adhered to applicable guidelines at all times.
- Managed multiple engagements simultaneously, prioritizing tasks effectively to meet client deadlines consistently.
- Mentored new hires within the department, offering guidance on day-to-day responsibilities as well as long-term career development opportunities within the field of auditing.
- Led training sessions on various topics related to internal auditing, enhancing the skills and knowledge of fellow team members.
- Supported external auditors during annual audits, providing requested information promptly and facilitating smooth communication between parties involved.
- Enhanced audit efficiency by streamlining processes and implementing risk-based audit approaches.
- Improved company compliance with laws and regulations through regular monitoring of accounting procedures.
- Strengthened internal controls by evaluating the effectiveness of existing policies and recommending improvements where necessary.
- Prepared working papers, reports and supporting documentation for audit findings.
- Completed audit papers by thoroughly documenting audit tests and findings.
- Identified management control weaknesses and provided value added suggestions for remediation.
- Trained new employees on accounting principles and company procedures.
- Conducted thorough financial statement audits for various industries, ensuring accurate reporting and compliance with regulations.
- Managed multiple concurrent engagements while meeting tight deadlines, demonstrating exceptional time management skills.
- Developed strong working relationships with clients through trust-building communication tactics and reliable service delivery.
- Employed expertise in auditing, accounting and generally accepted principles to accurately assess records.
- Led extensive audit programs based upon prior approved audit plans to evaluate management of institutional activities.
- Kept audits working smoothly to meet strict timetables and labor hour budgets.
- Performed detailed testing on revenue recognition policies, validating accuracy of reported earnings for clients.
- Assisted in the development of audit plans to address high-risk areas, improving overall effectiveness of audits conducted.
- Streamlined the audit process by developing customized templates that increased productivity without sacrificing quality.
- Coordinated, managed and implemented auditing projects and prepared for evaluation.
- Conducted financial, compliance and operational audits.
- Identified various risks and errors to propose corrective action to decision makers.
- Met with clients to identify and assess business controls, risks, and workflow inefficiencies.
- Performed extensive assessments of assets, liabilities and equity to verify accuracy in financial reports.
- Handled planning and budgeting for audit engagements.
- Found tax solutions to complicated tax issues or errors from incorrect tax filings.
- Provided journal entries and performed accounting on accrual basis.
SAICA Trainee Accountant
MGI Bass Gordon - Cape Town
Cape Town
02.2010 - 01.2014
- Communicated audit findings effectively with clients, fostering positive relationships and enabling timely resolution of issues.
- Gained exposure to multiple industries through diverse client engagements, broadening understanding of business operations and risks.
- Collaborated with senior auditors on complex audit engagements to gain valuable insights and experience.
- Evaluated internal controls, identifying weaknesses and recommending improvements for better operational effectiveness.
- Reviewed client accounting records to identify potential errors or misstatements, ensuring the quality of financial information.
- Maintained strict adherence to deadlines by efficiently managing assigned tasks and prioritizing workload.
- Prepare Financial statements
- Performed detailed testing of account balances, transactions, and disclosures for accurate financial reporting.
- Conducted thorough financial statement audits to ensure accuracy and compliance with relevant regulations.
- Participated in team discussions to share knowledge, brainstorm solutions, and enhance overall performance as a Junior Audit Associate.
- Promoted a culture of continuous improvement by sharing best practices and lessons learned from each audit engagement.
- Utilized data analytics tools during audits to streamline procedures and provide deeper insights into client financials.
- Assisted in risk assessment activities for improved audit planning and resource allocation.
- Executed substantive testing procedures that helped verify the correctness of financial statements.
- Maintained up-to-date knowledge of accounting standards, industry trends, and regulatory changes impacting the audit profession.
- Enhanced audit efficiency by streamlining processes and implementing automated tools.
- Established audit and internal control procedures and recommended process improvements to address issues.
- Conducted financial, compliance and operational audits.
- Supervised and developed associates and oversaw auditing activities across operational, personnel utilization and excessive billing areas.
- Prepared working papers, reports and supporting documentation for audit findings.
- Performed auditing work in accordance with rigorous auditing standards and principles.
- Performed strategic planning, execution and finalization of audits.
- Identified audit risks, prepared budgets, and coordinated with management and audit team in preparing related reports.
- Analyzed trends in financial data to investigate fluctuations.
- Identified various risks and errors to propose corrective action to decision makers.
- Followed established auditing processes to meet internal and regulatory requirements.
- Performed extensive assessments of assets, liabilities and equity to verify accuracy in financial reports.
- Analyzed accounting systems for efficiency and effectiveness.
- Identified control gaps in processes, procedures and systems through in-depth research and assessment and suggested methods for improvement.
- Met with clients to identify and assess business controls, risks, and workflow inefficiencies.
- Handled planning and budgeting for audit engagements.
- Gathered and analyzed financial data to determine improvement efforts.
- Worked audit engagements for industries in engineering, manufacturing, non-profit and human resources.
- Determined effectiveness of current control structures.
- Organized training for cross-functional teams to achieve greater performance and results.
- Developed financial models to assess and analyze financial performance of clients.
- Communicated with clients regarding tax situations, providing guidance on financial decisions.
- Prepared tax returns for clients in various industries according to government regulations and requirements.
- Maintained compliance by adhering to current tax laws and regulations.
- Completed and filed returns with tax departments at SARS
- Prepared tax returns, extensions, tax planning calculations, and write-ups for organizations and entities.
- Assessed client tax situations to determine best filing options.
Audit Consultant
SA Professional Consulting (Pty) Ltd
Maryland
10.2019 - 09.2020
- Facilitated internal audits and prepared detailed reports on findings.
- Managed a team of auditors, ensuring accurate and timely completion of audit projects.
- Provided valuable insights to senior management on potential business risks identified during audits.
- Conducted regular training sessions for audit staff, increasing their knowledge and skillset in the field.
- Implemented risk-based auditing strategies, resulting in better identification of potential issues.
- Consistently met deadlines for audit reports, helping maintain company reputation for reliability and professionalism.
- Mentored junior auditors, aiding in their professional development and fostering a positive work environment.
- Conducted strategic and technical reviews to verify compliance with quality control standards, schedule constraints and budget parameters.
- Maintained up-to-date knowledge on accounting standards and best practices to ensure high-quality audit results were delivered consistently.
- Gathered and analyzed financial data to determine improvement efforts.
- Participated in fraud investigations, gathering evidence to support legal proceedings when necessary.
- Ensured compliance with industry regulations by conducting regular reviews of company policies and procedures.
- Recommended changes to management regarding financial operations.
- Participated in billing and collections operations to facilitate client payment of overdue invoices.
- Strengthened stakeholder relationships by presenting clear findings from completed audits along with suggested improvements.
- Partnered with internal managers to deliver client proposals and presentations and increase department sales revenues.
- Developed and maintained productive relationships with clients to facilitate smooth audit processes and ensure compliance.
- Improved audit accuracy, meticulously reviewing financial statements and identifying discrepancies.
- Drafting of financial statements
- Prepared working papers, reports and supporting documentation for audit findings.
- Used accounting software to issue tax returns and prepare consolidated reports.
Education
High School Diploma -
Tygerberg High School
Cape Town 01.2001 - 11.2005
Bcom Financial Management - Financial Accounting
University of South Africa (UNISA)
Cape Town 01.2006 - 07.2009
Bachelor of Accounting Sciences Degree (BCompt) - Accounting And Audit
University of South Africa (UNISA)
Cape Town 01.2010 - 12.2013
Post Graduate Diploma in Accounting Sciences (PGDA) - Accounting Sciences
University of South Africa (UNISA)
South Africa 01.2015 - 12.2015
Post graduate diploma in Accounting Sciences (PGDIP AAS) - CTA Level 2
University of South Africa (UNISA)
South Africa 01.2017 - 12.2017
SAICA - ITC (Board 1) -
SAICA
South Africa 12.2017 - 01.2018
SAICA - APC (Board 2) -
SAICA
South Africa 10.2019 - 12.2019
Skills
Form expertise
Reporting skills
Liability understanding
Compliance knowledge
Income and expense evaluations
Tax return preparation
Software Program proficiency
Relationship building
Financial statements expertise
Finance
Tax audit procedures
Tax-related research
Account Reconciliation
Filing system management
Bookkeeping
Year-end tax provision proficiency
Payroll familiarity
Financial Management
IFRS and GAAP experience
QuickBooks proficiency
Internal control development
Corporate tax preparation
Websites
Firstnames
Brendon Marchelles Sutherland
Personal Information
- Gender: Male
- Nationality: South African
Educationalprofile
Tygerberg High School, Matric Certificate, 12/31/05, Bcom Financial Management, University of South Africa (UNISA), 12/31/09, Bachelor of Accounting Sciences Degree (BCompt), University of South Africa (UNISA), 12/31/13, Post graduate diploma in Accounting Sciences (PGDA) - CTA Level 1, University of South Africa (UNISA), 12/31/15, Post graduate diploma in Accounting Sciences (PGDIP AAS) - CTA Level 2, University of South Africa (UNISA), 12/31/17, SAICA - ITC (Board 1), SAICA, 12/31/18, SAICA - APC (Board 2), SAICA, 12/31/19, Articles - South African Institute of Chartered Accountants (SAICA), 01/30/13
Software
Pastel parter
Sage
Pastel evolution
Navision
Draftworx
Microsoft excel, word ,outlook
Cognos
Pastel Evolution
Pastel payrol
VIP payrol
Quickbooks
Timeline
Audit, Accounting and Tax Specialist
DigiOutsource
08.2023 - Current
Senior in Charge Audit
SA Professional Consulting (Pty) Ltd
10.2021 - 07.2023
Senior Financial Manager
Western Province Cricket Association (Cape Cobras)
06.2020 - 10.2021
Audit Consultant
SA Professional Consulting (Pty) Ltd
10.2019 - 09.2020
SAICA - APC (Board 2) -
SAICA
10.2019 - 12.2019
SAICA - ITC (Board 1) -
SAICA
12.2017 - 01.2018
Post graduate diploma in Accounting Sciences (PGDIP AAS) - CTA Level 2
University of South Africa (UNISA)
01.2017 - 12.2017
Audit Supervisor - Post Articles
MGI Bass Gordon - Cape Town
09.2016 - 09.2019
Post Graduate Diploma in Accounting Sciences (PGDA) - Accounting Sciences
University of South Africa (UNISA)
01.2015 - 12.2015
Audit Senior - Post Articles
MGI Bass Gordon - Cape Town
02.2014 - 08.2016
SAICA Trainee Accountant
MGI Bass Gordon - Cape Town
02.2010 - 01.2014
Bachelor of Accounting Sciences Degree (BCompt) - Accounting And Audit
University of South Africa (UNISA)
01.2010 - 12.2013
Bcom Financial Management - Financial Accounting
University of South Africa (UNISA)
01.2006 - 07.2009
High School Diploma -
Tygerberg High School
01.2001 - 11.2005
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