Accounting Weekly Interview with JC Marais - Partner at Marais Mutasa

In this insightful episode of the Accounting Weekly podcast, Nicolaas van Wyk, CEO of the Chartered Institute for Business Accountants (CIBA), interviews Jean Claude Marais, a partner at Marais and Mutasa, and a seasoned accounting and tax practitioner. Jean shares his career journey from traditional accounting roles to developing a niche in business advisory services tailored to SMEs. He discusses his unique business model, which makes high-level advisory services accessible to small and micro-enterprises, and the importance of continuous learning in the accounting profession.

The conversation also delves into the complexities of managing tax disputes with SARS, including strategies for handling audits, building comprehensive case files, and the crucial role of client education. Jean offers practical advice for accountants looking to expand into business advisory services and highlights the challenges posed by SARS's recent tender inviting tax consultants to work with them—a move that raises significant concerns about conflict of interest and the integrity of the profession.

Tune in to learn more about navigating the evolving landscape of accounting, tax advisory, and the importance of maintaining trust in the profession.

Key Topics:

Jean Claude Marais's career progression and the shift to business advisory services.
Making high-level advisory services accessible to SMEs.
Strategies for managing SARS audits and tax disputes.
The potential conflicts of interest in SARS's new tender for tax consultants.
Advice for accountants interested in business advisory and tax dispute resolution.