UP Accounting Sciences alumni quartet recognised for early career excellence

Posted on November 23, 2023

Four University of Pretoria Accounting Sciences alumni have been nominated for the annual South African Institute of Chartered Accountants (SAICA) Top-35-under-35 awards. Established in 2014, this prestigious initiative has been recognising chartered accountants under the age of 35 for the past decade. Nominees are selected for demonstration of excellence in their careers, leadership potential and a commitment to ethical conduct. Read below about each of our outstanding alumni who are making a meaningful contribution to society and the career strides that have earned them these nominations:
 
Chief Financial Officer at FNB (Islamic Banking)
At the young age of 32, Omar Baker’s remarkable track record and leadership skills earned him a promotion to the position of CFO at FNB Islamic Banking. Within his role, Omar serves as the diversity champion and chairs the Financial Resources Management Committee (FRM) at FNB Islamic.
 
Baker is a results-driven leader with a proven track record of success in driving growth and implementing strategy. His leadership skills have been honed through years of experience in the industry and being confident in his ability to inspire and motivate teams to achieve their best. This has contributed to FNB winning the ‘Strongest Islamic Retail Banking Window in Africa’ in 2022 and most recently the award for ‘Best Islamic Banking Window 2023’ presented by the prestigious Global Islamic Finance Awards. Read Omar Ahmed Baker’s full profile.
 
Asset Origination Transactor at Momentum Metropolitan Holdings Limited

 
Paul Wombo is a proud Thuthuka alumnus who finds joy in sharing how to overcome failure with students and colleagues. In 2015, he became second place runner-up in the SAICA SLS essay competition in an essay speaking against the restriction of the media.
 
He was involved in a trainee investment club and is currently engaged in an assertiveness club with colleagues. After finishing his CA training programme with the group, he joined the Asset Origination team. His dedication to his work, time spent researching markets and investee companies and his expertise in their businesses have earned him recognition from senior executives and CEOs of large JSE-listed companies, thus improving BSM’s relationships with key clients and allowing the BSM Asset Origination team to continue to meet its strategic objectives. Read Paul Wemakoy Wombo’s full profile
 
Renier Wessels CA(SA)
Head of Automation and Digital Consulting at Bidvest ALICE™, Bidvest Advisory Services (Pty) Ltd
Renier Wessels’ professional journey is a testament to his dynamic and multifaceted career. As a CA with over a decade’s experience in assurance, data, programming and process automation, Renier has honed his skills across a wide range of industries. His managerial-level service to clients in sectors as diverse as manufacturing, telecoms, insurance and agriculture has provided him with a comprehensive understanding of the business landscape.
 
However, his career trajectory took a fascinating turn when he transitioned into the world of technology. He embraced the role of an efficiency and automation specialist at PwC, leveraging his knowledge and skills to streamline processes and drive digital transformation. Wessels’ combination of audit, business and technology skills sets him apart and allows him to create tailored, efficient systems to enhance business operations. Read Renier Wessels’ full profile.
 
Roger Wyllie CA(SA)
Manager in Capital Markets/Africa Assurance Innovation at PwC South Africa

 
Roger Wyllie is a dynamic and forward-thinking professional who has carved a remarkable path in the world of innovation and digital transformation. With a passion for pushing boundaries and fostering collective innovation, Wyllie has not only transformed the way business is conducted but has also inspired countless individuals to think differently and embrace the unknown.
 
Roger’s journey began at PwC, which he joined almost four years ago and where he immediately set out to make a difference. During his three-year traineeship, he embarked on a hybrid path that involved both audit and innovation, demonstrating his commitment to bridging the gap between traditional practices and cutting-edge technology. Read Roger Wyllie’s full profile.
 
We congratulate and wish each of our exceptional alumni the best of luck for the SAICA Top 35-under-35 CA(SA) Awards ceremony that will take place on 25 November 2023.
 
The profiles above were first published on the SAICA Top-35-under-35 webpage
 
 

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