See Full Profile: Bedfordview Accountant: Mark Shelley
Were you always planning to be an accountant and why?
Yes, I was always good at accounting
When meeting with clients do they mostly come to your own premises or do you mostly go their theirs?
I mostly go to my clients
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?
Because I can make a difference
Would you recommend accounting as a career for school-leavers, and why?
Yes
What qualities should South African business people be looking for in their accountant?
Willingness to be involved and understand their business
What is the biggest challenge facing accountants today?
Difficult economic environment
What aspects of accounting do you focus on most?
Whatever the client requires
Describe your average client:
Hardworking, know what they want
How far away from your premises is your furthest client?
1200km
From your accounting experience, if you could cite one of the biggest reasons SME's in SA fail, what would it be?
Lack of understanding of their numbers, inability to access markets and funding
What accounting software do you like best?
Pastel, VIP
What other software, online services or apps do you use?
Caseware, Excel
Do you think the coming wave of automation in the next few years will steal some accounting jobs and why/why not?
No, APPS cannot replace human thoughts and ability too look for alternative solutions in the human space.
What is your opinion on Bitcoin?
Great technology. Blockchain offers great levels of transparency if used properly
What do you enjoy doing in your spare time?
Playing ice hockey, watching ice hockey and reading
What is the most interesting thing on your bucket list?
Sky diving and going to watch Maple Leafs play the Penguins in the NHL
