PMR - Professional Management Review

If you think ‘little grey men’ when you think ‘accountant’, then think again. SAB&T Ubuntu Holdings is a new breed of accounting and business consulting firm where energy and enthusiasm radiate almost palpably from the offices and corridors.

“We pride ourselves on our innovative, out-of-the-box thinking,” stresses CEO Bashier Adam. “Much of this arises from our ‘Ubuntu’ philosophy which brings all people of South Africa together, sharing the human spirit and striving towards the goals that we all share, working hard and working for each other. We derive great strength from this principle and stimulate individual potential, nurturing an environment where all are actively encouraged to express themselves. Everyone gives of his/her best and it results in an attitude that says there is nothing that is not achievable.

” Flexible, but stubborn, the firm is unwavering in its determination to succeed.

Overcoming initial scepticism about its credentials in a world dominated by the ‘Big Four’ accounting firms, SAB&T’s bold approach to the sector has today affirmed it as a preferred partner to the giants. “Not so much because they like us,” smiles Adam, “But because it’s better to have us as partners than as competition!”

Innovative thinking and a creative approach towards finding solutions while complying with international regulations have enabled SAB&T to re-define the way accountants think, while also spearheading new products.

In South Africa, the firm is heavily involved in skills development, partnering with the public sector on a number of initiatives and also making significant inroads in providing SMMEs with access to professional services through its franchise arm. “We have also penetrated the European market and are definitely targeting SADC where we know we have value to add,” says Adam.

“We are able to attract top talent because of our ethos and way of operating and I have no doubt that we will succeed in making it into the global rankings,” Adam concludes.