Josias reflects on how excelling in Taxation and Accounting during his undergraduate studies ignited his passion for these fields, which led to his first professional role at SARS.
His love for continuous learning, driven by curiosity, remains a key part of his journey. As a chess enthusiast, he draws inspiration from the saying, "When you see a good move, look for a better one," which pushes him to strive for excellence, challenge himself, and resist complacency in both his personal and professional development.
Josias views TAX as the gateway to investment opportunities and recognizes the vital role Tax leaders play in nation-building, especially in a developing country like South Africa, where tax revenue is critical for government operations.
His personal mission aligns with upholding the highest standards of integrity while managing tax risks and supporting businesses in making sound decisions that align with their investment goals. By fostering trust with external stakeholders such as SARS, he believes ethical practices not only strengthen relationships but also enhance the firm's credibility and reputation for reliability.
Outside of work, Josias is a chess enthusiast and draws valuable lessons from the game. He enjoys playing a few games in the morning to set the tone for his day, and another round before bed to unwind. Chess not only offers him a mental challenge but also provides clarity and focus, which helps him maintain balance between his personal and professional life. Additionally, spending quality time with his family is a priority, helping him stay grounded amidst his career responsibilities.
As a recently promoted leader, he sees the role as an exciting opportunity to shape the firm's future and make a greater impact. The promotion recognizes his hard work and contributions to the TAX department's growth, validating his expertise while allowing him to take on more responsibility and drive meaningful change.
He takes pride in SNG Grant Thornton’s journey as a black audit firm and is committed to ensuring its continued success. Guided by the CLEARR values, he aims to inspire positive change, open opportunities for the next generation, and make the firm an employer of choice.
The one piece of advice he'd give to his younger self is to always keep learning. Growth often happens outside of your comfort zone, so he advises stepping up, raising your hand, and embracing challenges. Pushing beyond what's comfortable is what sets you apart in the marketplace
